Kitchen Remodel Checklist

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Vision

Define project scope

Determine what stays, what goes, and what's non-negotiable in your dream kitchen.

Create your wish list

Dream big. List everything you want - you'll prioritize later based on budget.

Assess your lifestyle needs

How do you actually use your kitchen? Be honest about cooking habits and entertaining style.

Consider resale value

Balance personal taste with market appeal. Some investments pay back, others don't.

Document current state

Photograph everything from multiple angles. Measure and note electrical/plumbing locations.

Design

Hire designer or architect

For major remodels, professional design is worth it. They catch problems before they're expensive.

Finalize layout and flow

The work triangle should be efficient. Plan for adequate landing zones and traffic flow.

Select cabinet style and finish

Cabinets are 30-40% of your budget. Choose quality construction and timeless style.

Research and select appliances

Appliances dictate cabinet dimensions. Choose these before finalizing cabinet order.

Choose countertop material

Quartz is durable and low-maintenance. Granite needs sealing. Marble stains but looks luxurious.

Budget

Get detailed cost breakdown

Price out everything: cabinets, counters, appliances, labor, permits, flooring, lighting, plumbing.

Add 20% contingency

Remodels always reveal hidden issues. Budget for old plumbing, electrical upgrades, or structural surprises.

Explore financing options

Cash is ideal. HELOCs and cash-out refinances offer good rates. Avoid high-interest credit cards.

Create payment schedule

Never pay 100% upfront. Standard is 10% deposit, 40% at materials delivery, 50% at completion.

Contractor

Get 3-5 detailed bids

More bids = better understanding of fair pricing. Ensure each bid covers identical scope.

Check references thoroughly

Call at least 3 recent clients. Ask about communication, timeliness, cleanliness, and problem-solving.

Verify licenses and insurance

Confirm general contractor license, liability insurance, and workers' compensation coverage.

Review contract carefully

Every detail should be in writing: materials, timeline, payment, change order process, warranties.

Confirm project timeline

Major kitchen remodels take 8-16 weeks. Pin down start date and milestone schedule.

Permits

Determine required permits

Most remodels need permits for electrical, plumbing, structural, and gas work. Check local requirements.

Submit permit applications

Your contractor should handle this. Plan for 2-6 weeks approval time depending on locality.

Get HOA approval if applicable

Condo or HOA communities often require architectural review. Start this process early.

Coordinate utility needs

Upgrading to gas range? Adding major appliances? You may need utility company involvement.

Pre-Build

Order long-lead items

Custom cabinets take 8-12 weeks. Appliances can have long waits. Order everything now.

Set up temporary kitchen

You'll need a functioning kitchen for 3-4 months. Plan a reasonable alternative setup.

Protect adjacent areas

Dust travels everywhere. Seal off doorways with plastic sheeting and seal HVAC vents.

Empty kitchen completely

Clear out cabinets, pantry, counters, and remove fridge contents. Label boxes by category.

Structural

Demolition day

Everything comes out: cabinets, counters, appliances, flooring. Expect noise, dust, and chaos.

Framing and structural changes

If removing walls or adding windows/doors, this happens now. May need engineer approval.

Electrical rough-in

Run new wiring for outlets, lights, appliances. Modern kitchens need many dedicated circuits.

Plumbing rough-in

Relocate or add supply lines and drains for sink, dishwasher, ice maker, pot filler, or gas range.

HVAC modifications

Relocate vents or add heating/cooling if changing layout. Proper ventilation is critical.

Cabinetry

Drywall, tape, and paint

Close up walls after rough-in inspections pass. Paint before cabinets go in - it's easier.

Install base cabinets

Cabinets must be perfectly level and plumb. This is the foundation for countertops.

Install upper cabinets

Upper cabinets go in before countertops to avoid damage. Standard height is 18 inches above counters.

Countertop templating

Fabricator creates exact template of your cabinet layout. Sink cutout location is critical.

Countertop installation

Stone is heavy and precise. Installation takes 4-8 hours. Sink and cooktop installed same day.

Finishes

Install backsplash

Tile protects walls and adds visual interest. Subway tile is classic; intricate patterns cost more.

Install flooring

Luxury vinyl plank, tile, or hardwood. Consider durability, water resistance, and maintenance.

Install lighting fixtures

Layer your lighting: ambient (recessed/flush mount), task (under-cabinet), accent (pendants).

Install plumbing fixtures

Faucet, sink accessories, pot filler, soap dispenser. Quality fixtures last decades.

Install appliances

Appliances go in near the end. Ensure proper clearances and test all functions.

Final

Touch-up paint and caulk

Fill any nail holes, touch up paint nicks, caulk gaps between counters and walls.

Install cabinet hardware

Pulls, knobs, and handles are the jewelry of the kitchen. Install last to avoid damage.

Add finishing accessories

Decorative trim, open shelving brackets, display items. These details complete the look.

Final inspection

Walk through with contractor. Test everything. Create punch list of any remaining items.

Complete punch list items

Any small fixes, adjustments, or corrections identified in final inspection. Hold final payment until done.

Professional photos and celebration

Document your investment with quality photos. You've earned a celebration in your new kitchen!

Need something smaller?

Kitchen Refresh 1-2 weeks Kitchen Update 1-4 weeks