Free template
Remodeling estimate template
The structure of a remodeling estimate that covers your scope, controls change order chaos, and gets your deposit collected before demo day.
Sample remodeling estimate
| Item | Qty | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Demo — kitchen cabinets, countertops, flooring, and tile backsplash | 1 | $1,200 |
| Haul-away of demo debris (3 loads) | 3 | $450 |
| Electrical rough-in — 4 new circuits, under-cabinet lighting | 1 | $1,800 |
| Plumbing — relocate sink 18", new dishwasher line | 1 | $940 |
| Drywall — patch and repair after rough-in (est. 80 sq ft) | 80 | $480 |
| Custom cabinets — Shaker style, painted, 12 uppers + 8 lowers | 1 | $8,400 |
| Quartz countertop — Silestone Calacatta Gold, 42 sq ft w/ edge | 42 | $3,780 |
| Tile backsplash — 3x6 subway, Thassos white, 28 sq ft | 28 | $1,120 |
| LVP flooring — kitchen and breakfast nook, 310 sq ft | 310 | $2,480 |
| Appliance installation — range, hood, dishwasher, microwave | 4 | $640 |
| Paint — walls and ceiling (Sherwin-Williams Shoji White SW 7042) | 1 | $580 |
| Final walkthrough and punch list | 1 | $0 |
| Subtotal | $21,870 | |
| 40% deposit to secure schedule | $8,748 |
Anatomy of a remodeling estimate
1. Scope summary
Two to four sentences describing the full project. Name every room being touched, the type of work, and what you are not doing. 'Kitchen only — does not include adjacent pantry or dining room' is the kind of boundary statement that prevents disputes.
2. Demo and haul-away
List demo as a separate line. Surprises happen during demo — old tile mastic, asbestos, lead paint, unexpected plumbing. Having demo as its own line makes it easy to write a change order if conditions are worse than expected.
3. Rough trades (if applicable)
Plumbing, electrical, and HVAC rough-in that needs to be completed before drywall goes up. List each trade as a sub-line. Note whether you are subcontracting and mark-up language in your terms.
4. Drywall, insulation, and sheathing
List square footage and material type. Note any fire-rated assemblies required by code. If existing drywall is being patched rather than replaced, describe the scope boundary clearly.
5. Finish work — flooring, tile, cabinetry, trim
This is the bulk of most remodel estimates. List every finish item with manufacturer, product line, and color selected. Customer selections finalized before work starts reduce mid-project drama.
6. Fixtures and appliances
If you are supplying: list manufacturer and model. If customer-supplied: note 'labor only' and that you are not responsible for defects, compatibility, or delivery scheduling.
7. Paint and final finishes
Brand, sheen, and color number for every painted surface. Customers who dispute paint selections after the fact almost never win when the estimate specifies the exact color.
8. Punch list and final walkthrough
Note that a final walkthrough is included and that the punch list will be completed before final payment is released. This sets the professional tone from day one.
What makes a remodeling estimate win the job?
Frequently asked questions
How do I handle mid-project changes on a remodel?
Issue a written change order for every scope addition. Include a dollar amount and a revised schedule impact. Never proceed on a verbal agreement — the customer who agreed verbally is often the customer who disputes the invoice.
What is a fair deposit for a remodeling job?
35–50% for kitchen and bath remodels is standard. Materials are ordered and fabrication starts before demo is complete — you need the deposit to fund that.
Should I separate labor and materials on a remodel estimate?
This depends on your business model and local expectations. Lump-sum estimates are standard for residential remodels. Some commercial clients request T&M. Whatever your method, be consistent and state it clearly.
What happens if demolition reveals unexpected conditions?
Note it in every remodel estimate: 'Estimate assumes no asbestos, lead paint, hidden mold, or non-code conditions. Any discovered conditions will be documented and presented as a change order.' That one sentence saves you on every difficult job.
Build a professional remodeling estimate in under 5 minutes.
Free plan — 5 estimates/month. No credit card.