Quote expiration dates: keep old costs out of new work
An old quote can become risky when materials, scope, tax assumptions, or payment fees change. Add a valid-through date and recheck the numbers before extending it.
A quote expiration date is a pricing checkpoint. Before honoring an older quote, confirm the original cost, tax, scope, and timing assumptions still support the margin you expected.
Tie the date to real assumptions
Set the valid-through date based on how long labor rates, supplier prices, subcontractor availability, and delivery costs are likely to hold. A short expiration is easier to explain when the underlying costs move quickly.
Recheck margin before extending
If a client comes back after the quote expires, compare the original price with current direct costs and expected taxable amount. Even a small material or fee change can shrink profit on a fixed-price job.
Keep the wording plain
Use simple language such as valid through, subject to updated scope, or pending tax confirmation. Confirm contract, consumer-protection, and tax rules for your location before changing customer-facing terms.