Kitchen Remodeling Checklist
Table of Contents
Introduction
Save the full checklist and customize it later.
- Plan the kitchen layout and order materials
- Write a scope, budget and list of excluded work
- List appliances to retain, replace or relocate
- Measure the room and all appliance clearances
- Check the dimensions and installation needs of each appliance
- Choose cabinet sizes and obtain itemized estimates
- Compare countertop materials and fabrication requirements
- Decide which major layout or structural changes are worth doing
- Consult a kitchen designer if the layout is complex
- Approve a measured kitchen layout before ordering
- Check whether the proposed changes require approvals
- Finalize electrical outlets, lighting and range-hood ventilation
- Verify lead times, delivery access and installation charges
- Agree contracts and trade responsibilities in writing
- Place orders after confirming measurements and product specifications
- Schedule demolition, rough-ins, inspections and fitting
- Prepare the space and complete rough-ins
- Arrange waste collection and a safe route for removals
- Set up temporary cooking and washing arrangements
- Remove food, equipment and contents from the work area
- Inspect critical deliveries before dismantling the kitchen
- Check for hazardous materials before disturbing older finishes
- Have the appropriate trades isolate water, gas and power safely
- Remove existing fittings according to the demolition plan
- Inspect exposed walls and floors for hidden problems
- Complete revised plumbing, electrical and ventilation rough-ins
- Arrange applicable rough-in inspections before closing surfaces
- Prepare walls, substrate and floor levels for installation
- Keep demolition waste and work routes controlled
- Reconfirm dates with trades, cabinet installers and suppliers
- Maintain a daily site protection and cleanup plan
- Install fixtures and check the finished kitchen
- Install, anchor and level base cabinets
- Check the fit and connection allowances of built-in appliances
- Fit wall and tall cabinets securely
- Template and install countertops as specified
- Fit the backsplash after the necessary adjacent work
- Connect and test the sink, taps, dishwasher and disposal as applicable
- Fit and adjust cabinet doors and drawers
- Install fillers, end panels and integrated-appliance fronts
- Finish electrical connections and test kitchen lighting
- Install or finish flooring in the specified product sequence
- Clean the kitchen and remove protection after dusty work ends
- Install blinds and window treatments if included
- Verify the range hood exhaust and appliance operation
- Test doors, drawers, plumbing and fitted appliances
- Make a final defect list and collect warranties
Download or Print this Kitchen Remodeling Checklist
Get a printable version of this checklist in your preferred format: PDF, Word, Excel, or print directly from your browser.
Presented by:
Nicole Nichols-West
Stats
Views
392
Views: 392
Uses
22
Uses: 22
Tasks
47
Tasks: 47
Details
Set the layout before ordering fitted units
Check appliance widths, service clearances, cabinet openings and the positions of the sink, range, electrical outlets and range hood on the same measured plan. Small clashes are harder to fix once cabinets and countertops are fabricated. Confirm what each supplier needs before they can take final measurements.
Schedule the trades in the right order
After a controlled strip-out, identify hidden damage and complete any revised plumbing, electrical or ventilation work. Arrange required inspections before closing walls. Cabinet, floor and countertop installation order can vary by material, so follow the specific suppliers' instructions instead of assuming one sequence works everywhere.
For contractor selection use the Contractor Checklist. For an overall budget and milestone plan use the Renovation Checklist. If the project also includes bathrooms, use the separate Bathroom Renovation Checklist.