Lula is built around transparency, so Pros always know what to expect before accepting a job. Every job is different, but we try to make the process seamless so you know what to expect.
Job Details Before You Accept
Before accepting any job, the Lula Pro app displays key details, including:
The service type and scope of work
The pricing structure for the job (flat rate, hourly, free quote, or provider-determined pricing)
Notes or requirements from the property manager
Not to Exceed (NTE) limits
Different trades operate a little differently, so our pricing types can vary depending on the job.
What Is an NTE?
NTE stands for Not-To-Exceed.
An NTE is a maximum approved dollar amount for a job. Pros may complete work up to that amount without needing additional approval.
If the work required will exceed the NTE amount, the Pro must request approval through the Lula Pro app before continuing. Any work completed beyond the approved NTE without authorization may not be paid.
NTE pricing is commonly used when the full scope of work cannot be determined upfront but cost limits need to be set in advance.
A common NTE is $250. When you arrive at a property and diagnose the problem, you determine whether the work will exceed that amount or not. If it will be below that amount, you are approved to move forward and make the repairs and the maximum payout will be up to that amount. If it will exceed the set limit, then you need to get approval in the app.
Hourly Jobs
For hourly services, Pros set their own hourly rates prior to accepting any work. Hourly jobs are paid based on time worked and materials purchased. Here's an example:
A Pro accepts an hourly plumbing job to diagnose and repair a leaking kitchen sink in a rental property.
Job details shown before acceptance:
Hourly labor rate: $100 per hour
Pricing type: Hourly
Materials: Billed separately if approved
Work completed:
Time on site: 2.5 hours
Approved labor time: 2.5 hours
Payout calculation (before platform fees):
2.5 hours × $100/hour = $250
Total gross payout before fees: $250
Once the job is completed and approved, Lula deducts the flat percentage platform fee and issues payment for the remaining amount.
Provider-Determined Pricing
PDP works similarly to hourly pricing, except it is not time-based. This is reserved for non-hourly services such as painting, water extraction, roofing, etc. The same NTE applies, but the Pro sets the price when they arrive on site. Here's an example:
A Pro accepts a roofing service call to inspect and repair a minor roof leak at a rental property.
Job details shown before acceptance:
Service type: Roofing
Pricing type: Provider-determined pricing with NTE
Not-to-Exceed (NTE) amount: $500
Work requires on-site evaluation before pricing
Work completed:
Pro performs an on-site inspection
Identifies damaged flashing and a small shingle repair
Determines the work can be completed for less than the NTE
Submits pricing through the Lula Pro app for approval
Approved pricing:
Labor and materials (approved): $375
Payout calculation (before platform fees):
Approved job total: $375
Total gross payout before fees: $375
The $500 NTE represents the maximum allowed spend, not a guaranteed payout. Pros are paid the approved amount for completed work, up to—but not exceeding—the NTE. Once the job is completed and approved, Lula deducts the flat percentage platform fee and issues payment for the remaining amount.
Flat Rate Pricing
Flat-rate jobs on the Lula platform have a pre-approved, fixed payment amount. This amount is determined in advance and is sent out with the job.
What This Means for Pros
When you receive a flat-rate job:
The payment amount is listed in the Lula Pro app before you accept the job
The listed amount is final and pre-approved
There is no Not-To-Exceed (NTE) associated with the job
The expectation is that the job will be completed for the stated price
If you accept a flat-rate job, you are agreeing to complete the defined scope of work for the listed amount.
No Pricing Adjustments Without Approval
Because flat-rate pricing is based on a defined scope:
Payment does not change as long as the work stays within scope
If additional work is needed or the scope changes, you must request approval through the Lula Pro app before proceeding
Any work performed outside the approved scope without authorization may not be paid
Why Lula Uses Flat Rates
Flat-rate pricing allows for:
Faster dispatch and approvals
Clear expectations for Pros and property managers
Predictable payouts with no billing back-and-forth
Once the job is completed and approved, Lula deducts the flat percentage platform fee and issues payment for the remaining amount.