Kitchen remodel · Free estimate sample

Kitchen remodel estimate template

The general shape of a kitchen remodel estimate. Demo, rough trades, cabinets and counters, finishes, and permits kept separate so the customer can see where the money goes and adjust one category without re-quoting the whole job.

Use this template in the app Sample document · illustrative figures only · no signup

Estimate #5543

Sample Remodeling Group · Sample date

Valid 30 days

Demolition and disposal$1,800.00

Plumbing and electrical rough-in and finish as described$5,200.00

Cabinets and countertops — allowance or as specified$12,000.00

Flooring, tile, drywall, paint, and trim as described$6,500.00

Permits, inspections, and project management$1,500.00

Total$27,000.00

Excludes: appliances unless listed, structural changes, asbestos or lead abatement, and conditions discovered after demolition beyond the stated allowance. Cabinet and countertop selections at stated allowance; overages billed at cost plus stated markup. Payment due on completion.

Sample template only. Company, figures, and scope are fictional and for illustration — not a quote, price guide, or market rate.

Common practice

Why it's written this way

A kitchen estimate is an argument about allowances. Make them visible and the argument is short.

Why show allowances?

Cabinets and counters can swing the price by half. An allowance with a stated overage rule gives the customer a budget and you a mechanism.

Why group rough trades?

Plumbing and electrical are often subcontracted. One line shows their share without exposing sub pricing.

Why exclude post-demo conditions?

Old kitchens hide surprises. Excluding them beyond a stated allowance turns a surprise into a priced change.

Before you send it

What varies by state

Kitchens trigger permits, licensed subs, and consumer-contract rules almost everywhere.

LicensingRemodeling requires a general contractor or home-improvement license in most states; plumbing and electrical must be done by licensed trades.
PermitsNearly always required; moving plumbing, gas, or electrical always triggers one.
Lead paintDisturbing painted surfaces in homes built before 1978 triggers federal EPA RRP rules — certified firm, certified renovator, lead-safe work practices — in every state.
Contract rulesDeposit caps, progress-payment rules, written-contract requirements, and right-to-cancel apply — often with specific language.
Lien and paymentPreliminary notices and lien waivers on progress payments are governed by state law.

General information, not legal, tax, or licensing advice. Requirements differ by state, county, and city and change over time. Confirm with your state licensing board and the local authority having jurisdiction before relying on any of this.

Estimator notes

Common questions

Fixed price or cost-plus?

Fixed price with allowances is the norm for residential. Cost-plus needs a trusting customer and clean books.

Should I show sub pricing?

No. Show category totals.

How do I handle change orders?

State the process on the estimate: written, priced, signed before work.

How long is the estimate valid?

30 days. Cabinet lead times and material pricing both move.