How to Choose the Right Kitchen Renovation Contractor

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Table of Contents

• Introduction: Why You Need a Kitchen Renovation Contractor
• Qualifications of a Kitchen Remodeling Contractorsome text
  • General Contractor vs. Kitchen Remodeling Specialist
  • Credentials
• Services Offered by Kitchen Contractors
• Steps to Hire a Kitchen Remodeling Contractorsome text
  • Questions to Ask a Kitchen Contractor
• How to Choose the Best Kitchen Remodeling Contractor
• FAQ

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Introduction: Why You Need a Kitchen Renovation Contractor

From perfecting a kitchen functionality to upping its resale value, a kitchen remodel can have quite a dramatic impact. Unless you're a long-time do-it-yourselfer, even minor updates deserve the expertise of a professional kitchen remodeling contractor. The right expert will help you to complete the project on time, on budget, and to a high standard.

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Qualifications of a Kitchen Remodeling Contractor

General Contractor with Kitchen Experience vs. Specialized Kitchen Remodeling Contractor

By the time you are ready to put your project out to tender, you will have to decide whether to hire a general contractor with experience in kitchen remodeling projects or a specialist kitchen remodeling contractor. In both cases, they should be licensed general contractors, but the focus and depth of their work and business can be very different.

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General Contractors: These are professionals who undertake general projects, one of which may be the kitchen. They may also have experience in related trades such as roofing, bricklaying, and extensions. You may want to use a general contractor if your project involves extensive renovations other than the kitchen.

Kitchen Contractors: As the name suggests, these companies deal exclusively with kitchens. Some of them have an associated design service. It can be a great way to try out your ideas on paper before you start the actual building process. If your renovation is exclusively in the kitchen, then this type of specialist kitchen builder is the one you want to take charge of transforming your space.

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Credentials

Always work with a licensed, insured kitchen remodeler. States issue contractor licenses that require a rigorous test of knowledge of the trade, business practices, and laws. Ask for the remodeler's license number and a certificate of insurance, commonly called a COI. Check with your state's licensing board to verify the credentials, and with the remodeler's insurance carrier to confirm the status of coverage.

It also qualifies a contractor as an active member of professional associations such as NKBA (National Kitchen & Bath Association), NARI (National Association of the Remodeling Industry), or NAHB (National Association of Home Builders). 

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Services Provided by Kitchen Contractors

The work of a kitchen contractor follows the entire renovation process from inception to completion. This includes obtaining approvals, overcoming construction and regulatory barriers, making informed decisions about the methods and materials to be used, and coordinating skilled labor. This is what you would expect the contractors to do:

• Demolition: Safely removing the existing kitchen structure.
• Preparation: Restoring or repairing the existing structure in preparation for the new kitchen.
• Construction: Building out the new kitchen according to the design plan.

Some of the best kitchen builders also offer architectural and design services. They come in handy if you plan to put those complex kitchen renovation ideas into practice. An architect will focus on the structural changes your space needs, while a designer will focus on how to make your space more functional and beautiful.

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How to Hire a Kitchen Remodeling Contractor

Here are the steps you need to take to find the best kitchen remodeling contractor:

• Make a List: Ask neighbors, friends, family, and co-workers for recommendations. You can also find qualified kitchen contractors in the NKBA, NARI, or NAHB membership directories.
• Research: Look for reviews on Google, Facebook, and Yelp—and don't forget to check their rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
• Select: Choose three to five candidates. Rank them based on their reviews and references, then contact your top choices to discuss your project.
• Verify their credentials: Ask for their license and insurance. Make sure they are valid before allowing them into your home for a consultation.

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Questions to Ask a Kitchen Contractor

When you are interviewing a potential kitchen contractor, here are some of the most important questions you should ask:

• Are you licensed and insured?
• Are you or one of your employees certified as a Certified Remodeler, Certified Lead Carpenter, or Certified Kitchen and Bath Remodeler?
• Do you have any referrals from former projects?
• Who is going to work on my project—employees or subcontractors?
• What do you want, and expect, for payment?
• Do you provide an estimate or a fixed quote?

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How to Choose the Best Kitchen Remodeling Contractor

Once you have pre-qualified a few now, request the chosen kitchen remodeling contractors to send in their bids. For fairness, have all be based on the identical detailed specification, like:

• Budget
• Kitchen design
• Cabinet and countertop materials
• Placement of electrical components
• Acceptable working hours
• Timeline

When reviewing bids, assess both professionalism and content. A comprehensive proposal should include:

• Price
• Payment schedule
• Scope of work
• Site plan
• Schedule of primary construction tasks
• Change order clause
• Procedures for project closeout
• Express limited warranty
• Dispute resolution clause
• Waiver of lien

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FAQ

How much does it cost to remodel a kitchen?

The cost to remodel a kitchen greatly varies depending on the scope of work, materials used, and the rates of the kitchen remodeling contractor. On average, kitchen remodels can range anywhere from $10,000 to $50,000 or more.

Do kitchen remodeling contractors give free estimates?

Many of the companies in this sector offer free quotes. However, some will charge a consultation fee for quotes that may include design services.

Do I need to hire an architect?

Yes, if your remodel involves major structural changes, an architect would be quite useful. An architect can help your kitchen contractor develop a design that is functional as well as pleasing to the eye.

What is the payment structure for a typical kitchen remodel?

Most kitchen remodelers demand a deposit to secure the job, followed by progress payments at set stages in the job, with the final payment upon completion. Be certain to confirm this with any contractor before signing a contract.

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