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Create a scope of work template

A scope of work (SOW) is a reusable block of formatted text that describes a type of work you do — for example, Standard Carpet Install, LVP Glue-Down Install, Hardwood Refinish — Existing, Tile Install — Standard, or Stair Runner — Pet-Safe Pad Upgrade. Save it once, then drop it into any quote.

  1. Go to SettingsQuote (under Work Settings) → Scope Of Work tab.
  2. Click + Create.
  3. In the Add Scope Of Work dialog, enter a Name — something clear and searchable, like Standard Carpet Install — Residential, LVP Install — Floating, or Tile Install — Wet Area.
  4. Use the rich text editor to write the content:
    • Format text with bold, italics, bullet lists, tables, and headings using the toolbar.
    • Add standard inclusions, exclusions, warranty terms, or preparation instructions.
  5. Click Add.
  • The new SOW appears in the Scope Of Work list.
  • When creating or editing a quote, you can select this SOW from the Scope Of Work dropdown to instantly add it to the document.
  • Updates to the SOW template don’t affect past quotes — they’re copied in at the time of use.
  • Include what IS included: steps, materials, timeframe.
  • Include what ISN’T included: exclusions and limits.
  • Mention warranty or guarantee language.
  • Use headings to make the document easy to skim.
  1. Go to SettingsQuote (under Work Settings) → Scope Of Work tab.
  2. Click the pencil icon on the row to open the Update Scope Of Work dialog.
  3. Edit the name or content and click Update. To delete, click the trash icon on the row instead.

Deleting an SOW template doesn’t remove it from quotes that already used it — those keep their copy as-is.

When should I use a scope of work?

Use an SOW for any work where the client benefits from seeing exactly what’s included — installs, custom binding, tear-outs with disposal. It builds trust on the quote and reduces “I thought that was included” disputes after the install.

Should each SOW be detailed or short?

Detailed enough that the client knows what to expect, short enough they’ll read it. A typical flooring SOW covers: what’s included (material, labor, padding or underlayment, transitions, moisture barrier, trim), what’s excluded (subfloor repair, moisture remediation, furniture moving, appliance disconnect, off-hours install), the warranty terms, and any prep the client needs to handle.

What changes when I edit an SOW template — does it update past quotes?

No. SOW content is copied into the quote at the time it’s attached. Editing the template afterward only affects new quotes that use it from that point forward. Past quotes keep the version that was attached when the client approved them.

Can I have different SOWs for residential vs commercial?

Yes — and you should. Residential and commercial flooring jobs have different inclusions (commercial often includes after-hours work, freight elevators, ADA transitions, longer-warranty backing). Name them clearly: Carpet Install — Residential, Carpet Install — Commercial, LVP Install — Residential, LVP Install — Commercial.

What if I delete an SOW that’s in use?

Quotes that already had it attached keep their copy intact. Deleting only removes the template from the dropdown, so future quotes can’t use it. You can recreate or rename without affecting old documents.

Should I include pricing in the SOW?

No — keep pricing in the line items (where it can be calculated and itemized). The SOW is the narrative description of the work; line items are the priced breakdown. Mixing them makes both harder to maintain.