Getting a renovation quote and actually understanding it are two different things. After reviewing dozens of contractor quotes, here’s what to look for and what to question.
What Should Be in Every Quote
A complete quote includes:
- Detailed scope of work — not “kitchen renovation” but line-by-line: demo, electrical, plumbing, cabinets, countertops, tile, flooring, painting
- Materials specification — brand, model, dimensions. “Client-supplied cabinets” vs. “contractor-supplied mid-range cabinets” are completely different quotes
- Payment schedule — milestone-based, not calendar-based
- Timeline — start date, estimated completion
- Permit responsibility — who pulls permits (should be the contractor)
- Exclusions — what is explicitly NOT included
Red Flags in Quotes
- Lump sum with no line items (can’t compare or dispute)
- “TBD” for major line items
- No mention of permits
- Payment schedule front-loaded (50%+ due before work starts)
- No specification for materials (leaves them free to downgrade)
How to Compare Three Quotes
Build a spreadsheet. List every scope item down the left. Columns for each contractor. Where one contractor includes something others don’t, that’s a scope gap — ask the others to price it explicitly.
The Change Order Process
Every mid-project change should generate a written change order with cost and timeline impact before work proceeds. If your contractor won’t do this, you’re in for surprises at final billing.
Real quote comparison discussion at home.renovation.reviews.