Free General Contractor Invoice Template

What is a General Contractor invoice?

A general contractor invoice covers project management and construction work for building renovations, new builds, extensions, conversions, and commercial fit-outs. General contractors coordinate multiple trades, manage subcontractors, procure materials, and oversee the site to deliver a complete project. Because general contracting involves subcontracting, invoices often include the cost of subcontractors marked up by a management margin (typically 10-20%). Applications for payment (AFPs) and interim valuations are the standard billing mechanism on large construction contracts, replacing simple invoices. For smaller projects, fixed-price invoicing at defined milestones works well. General contractors dealing with VAT-registered businesses should be aware of the Construction Industry Scheme (CIS) and domestic reverse charge VAT rules for subcontractors.

What to include on a General Contractor invoice

• Project name and site address
• Contract reference and application number (for AFPs)
• Work completed during billing period
• Subcontractor costs (marked up or at cost)
• Materials procured and used
• Preliminaries and site overheads
• Retention amount (if applicable)
• CIS deductions (if applicable)
• VAT (noting reverse charge if applicable)
• Payment terms and bank details

Common general contractor invoice line items

How to invoice as a general contractor

For large contracts, use applications for payment tied to the contract valuation schedule. For smaller renovation projects, invoice at milestones: groundworks complete, structure/roof complete, first fix complete, second fix and finish complete. Always separate your labour, subcontractor costs, and materials on the invoice. Note any retention being held. If CIS applies, show the CIS deduction clearly. For commercial clients who are VAT-registered, check whether domestic reverse charge VAT applies.