1. They’re waiting on someone else
A partner, a landlord, a grant, the bank. The quote is sitting in a pile waiting for a second yes. → Ask once: “Is there anyone else who needs to see this?”
2. They didn’t understand it
A list of parts and a total doesn’t tell a customer what they’re getting. If they can’t explain it to their partner in one line, it stalls. → Add one sentence at the top: what’s wrong, what you’ll do, how long it takes.
3. The price surprised them
It was higher than they’d guessed, and they’re embarrassed to say so. → Give options next time (good / better / best) so there’s a price they can say yes to. → Free template
4. They’re getting other quotes
Normal. The firm that stays in touch while the others go silent usually wins. → A check-in at day 3 and day 7 keeps you in it.
5. Life got in the way
Sick kids, a funeral, a busy month at work. The job’s still needed. → A message at day 14 that lets them off the hook gets replies from people who’ve been meaning to answer for a week.
6. They did say no, just not to you
Some went elsewhere. Fine. A last message that says “no bother either way” gets you a clear answer, so you can stop wondering.
The short version
Silence is usually “not yet” or “I’m awkward about replying”. Three short check-ins over two weeks turn most of that silence into an answer.