Handyman/ Remodeler here. I have never charged for estimates because my customers are usually honest and trust me. The following had happened to me maybe a dozen times in the last 25 years.
Just got ghosted on a multi door replacement project. The DIY dude wanted to do them himself but claimed he was not skilled enough. I was at his house for 90 minutes discussing door options, measuring his odd sized doors, and making suggestions.
He wanted to save some money so i gave him all the measurement details so he could order them without my mark up and he promised to call me to schedule the work when they were delivered. Just drove by and saw his house had three new doors. Almost knocked on the door to say hello and remind him of his promise. All he wanted was a professional to measure them for him. I would have agreed to do that for $50.00. Not cool.
Does anyone else here charge for estimates? I already add a trip charge for longer distances. Minimum mark up for materials. Always charge Time and Materials, to the quarter hour.
Mannnn that would piss me off. I tell clients I have consultations if they want to pick my brain and charge for that. Other than that I get them to sign a quote before giving them anything. That being said I just got done doing something similar for a custom build quote and material list for a friend of a friend. Didnt really mind expect I set up timelines with a dozen guys that put a bunch of time into building quotes. I just apologized to my subs and stopped giving him info when I knew he was just trying to get me to do homework for him to eventually cut me out. People can be dicks but dont let a few bad apples spoil it for you. Just dont forget who screwed you, warn people about them and avoid them