Invoice Template for Contractors
Contractors usually need an invoice that shows labour and materials separately, references the job or contract, and handles stage payments. Invoice Today gives you a free invoice builder that does this and downloads a PDF, with no account.
This page is aimed at self-employed and small-firm contractors in building, maintenance and similar trades. If you work through an umbrella company or your own limited company on day rates, the consultant template may suit you better.
Key details for a contractor invoice
- Your business name, address and email, and VAT number if registered.
- The client or main contractor's name and address.
- The site address and a job or contract reference.
- The period or stage the invoice covers.
- Labour and materials on separate lines.
- Any amount already paid, and the balance due.
- Payment terms that match what you agreed.
Stage payments and valuations
On longer jobs it's common to invoice in stages, such as after first fix or at the end of each month. Describe each stage clearly and number your invoices in sequence, so both sides can see what has been billed so far.
Interim invoice
Bill for work completed to date or a milestone, for example "Stage 2 of 4: first fix electrics and plumbing complete".
Final invoice
Bill the remaining balance once the work is finished, listing any agreed variations on their own lines.
Example contractor invoice
All names, numbers and prices below are made-up examples. Replace them with your own.
| Description | Qty | Rate | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|
| Labour: stage 2 of 4, site at 1 Example Road (days) | 5 | £000.00 | £000.00 |
| Materials as per agreed schedule | 1 | £000.00 | £000.00 |
| Variation 1: additional socket outlets (agreed on [date]) | 1 | £00.00 | £00.00 |
| Skip hire | 1 | £000.00 | £000.00 |
Construction Industry Scheme (CIS) and reverse charge
If you work in construction for a contractor, the Construction Industry Scheme (CIS) and, for some VAT-registered businesses, the VAT domestic reverse charge may affect what your invoice must show and how deductions work. These rules are specialist, and Invoice Today doesn't calculate CIS deductions or apply the reverse charge automatically.
Read the CIS and reverse charge guidance on GOV.UK, or ask an accountant, before you invoice construction work. You can add any wording they recommend in the notes field.
Tips
- Get variations agreed in writing before doing the extra work.
- Keep invoice numbers in one sequence across all clients.
- Send the invoice as soon as a stage is signed off.
Frequently asked questions
This is general information, not tax or legal advice. Check your own requirements with an accountant or HMRC.