How to Quote a Kitchen Remodel: What to Include in Your Estimate

Kitchen Remodels: The Most Complex Residential Quote

Kitchens involve more trades, more materials, and more client decisions than almost any other residential project. A missing line item doesn't just cost you money — it costs you credibility when you have to send a change order two weeks in. This guide covers every section a kitchen remodel quote should include, with realistic numbers you can adjust for your market.

What to Include in a Kitchen Remodel Quote

1. Demolition

• Remove existing cabinets (upper and lower)
• Remove countertops and backsplash
• Remove flooring (if included in scope)
• Disconnect and remove appliances
• Haul-out and disposal
• Typical range: $1,000–$3,500

Quote demo separately — it's real labor and clients need to see it.

2. Cabinets

• Supply: stock, semi-custom, or custom cabinets
• Installation labor
• Fillers, trim, and crown molding
• Typical range: $4,000–$15,000+ (stock to semi-custom)

Cabinets are usually the single biggest line item. If the client hasn't selected yet, quote an allowance and specify what it covers. Always note lead times — custom cabinets can take 4–8 weeks.

3. Countertops

• Template, fabrication, and installation
• Sink cutout and edge profile
• Material options: laminate ($20–40/sq ft installed), quartz ($50–100/sq ft), granite ($45–90/sq ft)
• Typical range: $2,000–$6,000 for a standard kitchen

4. Plumbing

• Rough-in for new sink location (if layout changes)
• Supply and install sink and faucet
• Dishwasher hookup
• Gas line for range (if applicable)
• Typical range: $800–$3,000

5. Electrical

• Dedicated circuits for appliances (dishwasher, microwave, fridge)
• Under-cabinet lighting
• GFCI outlets above counter
• Pendant or recessed lighting
• Typical range: $1,000–$3,500

6. Backsplash

• Tile supply and install
• Typical range: $800–$2,500

7. Flooring

• Remove existing (if not in demo scope)
• Prep subfloor
• Supply and install new flooring (LVP, tile, or hardwood)
• Typical range: $1,500–$4,000

8. Appliance Allowance

If you're supplying appliances, list each one with a price. If the client is purchasing, note "client-supplied" and include installation labor only:

• Range/cooktop installation: $150–$400
• Dishwasher installation: $150–$300
• Hood vent installation: $200–$500
• Refrigerator (usually just delivery — no install cost unless built-in)

9. Paint & Trim

• Prime and paint walls and ceiling
• Base trim, door casing, window trim
• Typical range: $600–$1,500

10. Permits & Design

• Building permit: $200–$800
• Design fee (if you provide layout/design services): $500–$2,000

Handling Client-Supplied Materials

Clients often want to buy their own appliances, tile, or fixtures. That's fine, but protect yourself:

• Specify "installation only" for those items
• Note you're not responsible for material defects, wrong quantities, or delays
• Set a deadline for materials to be on-site before install phase begins
• If materials arrive damaged or wrong, additional labor to handle returns is billed at your hourly rate

Markup on Subcontractor Work

If you're the GC and subbing out plumbing, electrical, or countertop fabrication, mark up their quotes. Standard GC markup is 15–25%. This covers your coordination, scheduling, warranty management, and liability. For a deeper dive on markup vs margin, see what markup should contractors charge.

Sample Kitchen Remodel Quote Summary

Mid-range kitchen remodel, approximately 120 sq ft:

• Demolition: $2,200
• Cabinets (semi-custom, supply & install): $9,500
• Countertops (quartz, supply & install): $4,200
• Plumbing: $1,800
• Electrical: $2,200
• Backsplash: $1,400
• Flooring (LVP): $2,800
• Appliance Installation (client-supplied): $800
• Paint & Trim: $1,100
• Permits: $400
• Project Total: $26,400

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a kitchen remodel cost?

A mid-range kitchen remodel typically costs $20,000–$45,000. Minor remodels (paint, hardware, countertops only) can be $8,000–$15,000. High-end full remodels with custom cabinets and premium finishes can run $50,000–$80,000+.

Should I quote cabinets as an allowance or a fixed price?

If the client has already selected cabinets, quote the actual cost. If they haven't, use an allowance (e.g., "$8,000 cabinet allowance — covers stock-quality cabinets for the specified layout") and note that upgrades will adjust the total.

How do I handle appliance pricing in my quote?

For client-supplied appliances, list installation labor only. For contractor-supplied, list the appliance cost plus markup and installation. Always clarify who's responsible for delivery and warranty claims.

What lead times should I include?

Mention cabinet lead times (2–8 weeks depending on type), countertop fabrication (1–3 weeks after template), and permit approval (varies by municipality). Clients appreciate realistic timelines over optimistic ones.

How long does a kitchen remodel take?

A full kitchen remodel typically takes 4–8 weeks. Minor remodels (no layout changes) can be done in 2–3 weeks. Always add buffer for permit delays, material backorders, and client change requests.

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