Guide · UK trades
Quote follow up text templates that get a reply
Most quotes that go quiet aren't lost. The customer is busy. Here are short, polite texts to copy, when to send each one, and when to let it go.
On this page
You sent the quote. The customer said they'd be in touch. Then nothing. This is where a quote follow up text comes in.
That's normal. People get busy, show it to a partner, or forget. A short, friendly follow-up often brings the job back to life. A pushy one doesn't. This page gives you texts to copy and a simple rhythm.
If you haven't got a clear quote to follow up yet, start with how to quote a job. If you send your quotes by text, see sending a quote by SMS.
The rules for a good follow-up
- Keep it short. One or two sentences. They'll read it on a phone.
- Use their name. And yours.
- Make it easy to answer. A yes, a no or a question.
- Don't guilt them. "Just checking you got my quote" is fine. "I've not heard back" sounds cross.
- Offer something. A start date, a quick call, or an answer to a question.
- Send it in the day. Not late at night or at weekends unless that's how you normally talk.
Texts to copy
Change the details to suit. Keep your own voice.
Follow-up 1: a day or two after
> Hi Sarah, it's Mark. Just checking my quote for the bathroom came through OK. Any questions, give me a shout.
Follow-up 2: about a week after
> Hi Sarah, Mark again. I've got a gap from the 18th if you'd like to go ahead with the bathroom. Happy to talk it through if you want to change anything.
Follow-up 3: the last one
> Hi Sarah, I'll leave the quote with you. It stands until the 30th, so just reply "yes" if you'd like me to book you in. Thanks for having me round.
If they said they were comparing quotes
> Hi Sarah, it's Mark. No pressure at all. If it helps, I can go through any line in the quote so you can compare like with like.
If they said it was too expensive
> Hi Sarah, thanks for letting me know. If you'd like, I can look at a simpler version, for example fewer fittings or doing it in two stages. Let me know.
If they've gone ahead with someone else
> Hi Sarah, thanks for letting me know. Good luck with the job. If anything changes, I'm happy to help.
That last one costs nothing and often leads to the next job.
When to send each one
| Follow-up | When | Aim |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | One to two days after the quote | Check it arrived and invite questions |
| 2 | About a week after | Offer a date or a conversation |
| 3 | Near the end of the quote's expiry date | A last, easy way to say yes |
After the third, leave it. You can mark the quote as lost and move on.
If they still don't reply
- Don't send a fourth text. Three polite attempts is enough.
- Try a call once, if you have a number and it's a job you really want.
- Note why it went quiet, if you find out. If it's price every time, your quotes may need a second look.
- Ask for a reply either way. "A quick yes or no helps me plan my diary" is honest and easy to answer.
Send them from TradiesMate
On Minimum you send follow-ups from your own phone. On Covered, TradiesMate can send quote chasers for you, and reminders too. The quote link in your text lets the customer view and accept on their phone, so a reply can be one tap. You can see how it works.
Chasers count as texts on your plan. Covered is £39 every 30 days with 250 texts, half price for the first 30 days, and Minimum is £24 every 30 days. No VAT is added. The pricing page explains how texts are counted.
Questions
How long should I wait before following up?
A day or two is fine for the first message. Waiting longer lets the quote go cold.
How many times should I follow up?
Two or three polite messages is enough. After that, leave it and move on.
Should I text or call?
Text first. It's less intrusive and people reply when it suits them. A single call can help on a bigger job.
Should I offer a discount to get a reply?
Be careful. A discount can teach customers to wait. Offering a start date or a simpler option is usually better.
Will TradiesMate follow up for me?
On Covered, yes. It can send quote chasers for you. On Minimum you text from your own phone.
Last checked 3 November 2026.
Questions this guide doesn't answer? Ask other UK tradespeople in the TradiesMate Community.