Price any trade job correctly.

A markup of 15-25% on materials is standard for trade work in Ireland and the UK. You are sourcing the materials, taking on the risk if they are wrong or defective, and handling any warranty claims. Most clients expect a markup - it is entirely reasonable.

Yes. Breaking a quote into labour and materials separately protects you if material prices change before you start the job. It looks more professional and helps clients understand exactly what they are paying for. Always quote materials at your marked-up trade price.

In Ireland, most construction and repair work on existing buildings is subject to the 13.5% reduced VAT rate. Standard rate is 23% for goods. In the UK, work on domestic properties is generally subject to the 5% reduced rate, while commercial work is at 20%. If you are not VAT-registered, you charge no VAT regardless.

A quote is a fixed price for a defined scope of work - the client accepts it and you are bound by it. An estimate is an approximation that can change. Most trades should issue quotes, not estimates, unless the scope genuinely cannot be determined in advance.