Expert Advice
How to Read an Interior Quote Properly
Two quotes for the same kitchen can differ by 60% and both be honest. Here is where to look.
Photo: dalbera · BY 2.0In this article
Compare the material schedule, not the total
A quote without a line-by-line schedule of carcass material, shutter finish, hardware make and countertop cannot be compared to anything. Ask for it before you look at the number.
Check what unit the pricing is in
Running foot, square foot of shutter area, and per-module pricing all produce different totals for identical work. Make both quotes state the same basis.
Find the exclusions list
This is where the difference usually lives — electrical rework, civil changes, painting, transport, installation, loading and society charges. A quote with no exclusions list is incomplete, not inclusive.
Look at the hardware line specifically
Hinges and runners are 5-8% of cost and the first thing to fail. A quote that says 'imported hardware' without a make and cycle rating is hiding the cheapest available.
Ask what triggers a revision
Understand which changes are free, which are chargeable, and at what point the price is locked. Get that in writing at sign-off rather than discovering it at production.
More
More in Expert Advice
Photo: Christine G. H. Franck · BY 2.0Where the Money Actually Goes in a Home Interior Budget
A realistic proportional breakdown for a full-home project.
Read
Photo: visualpanic · BY 2.0Twelve Questions Worth Asking Before You Sign
The answers tell you more than any portfolio.
Read
Photo: army.arch · BY 2.0When You Actually Need a Designer, and When You Do Not
An honest answer, including the cases where the answer is no.
ReadNext step
Want this applied to your home?
Send the plan. We will tell you which of these actually matter for your building and your budget.