What's in a cabinets scope of work?

It covers measurements, selection, ordering, delivery, installation, hardware, and trim. It defines what's included, the timeline, and payment structure.

How long is the lead time for cabinets?

Stock cabinets: 1-3 weeks. Semi-custom: 4-8 weeks. Custom: 8-12 weeks. Plan accordingly and order early.

What if a cabinet arrives damaged?

Inspect everything at delivery. Document damage with photos and report to the supplier the same day. Don't install damaged cabinets — request replacements.

Are countertops included?

Usually no. Countertops are typically a separate scope with a separate contractor. Cabinet installation should be complete before countertop templating.

Can I modify this template?

Yes. Adjust for kitchen, bathroom, laundry, garage, or any other cabinet project.

Cabinets Scope of Work Template | Free Download 2026

Getting cabinets right is one of the most important parts of any kitchen or bathroom project. The scope of work defines what cabinets are included, who installs them, what hardware goes on, and what the finished product should look like. This template covers cabinet selection, delivery, installation, and finishing. It's straightforward and works for any cabinet project. Adjust it for your specific job.

Project Overview

This scope covers cabinet supply and installation including selection, ordering, delivery, installation, hardware, and trim work.

Typical Projects Include:

Kitchen cabinet replacement
New construction kitchen cabinets
Bathroom vanity cabinets
Pantry or utility cabinets
Garage or workshop cabinets
Cabinet door and hardware replacement

Scope of Work

Selection & Ordering

Task	Description
Measurements	Measure the space accurately. Document window, door, outlet, and plumbing locations.
Cabinet Selection	Select cabinet line, door style, color/finish, and interior options with the client.
Layout Drawing	Create a cabinet layout showing every cabinet, its size, and position.
Order Placement	Place the order with the supplier. Confirm lead time and delivery date.

Installation

Task	Description
Delivery & Inspection	Receive delivery and inspect all cabinets against the order. Report damage immediately.
Upper Cabinet Install	Install wall cabinets first. Secure to studs, level and plumb, shim as needed.
Base Cabinet Install	Install base cabinets. Level front-to-back and side-to-side across the entire run.
Fillers & Panels	Install filler strips between cabinets and walls. Install end panels and decorative pieces.

Finishing Touches

Task	Description
Doors & Drawers	Install and adjust all doors and drawers for consistent alignment and smooth operation.
Hardware	Install knobs, pulls, and any soft-close mechanisms.
Crown & Trim	Install crown molding, light rail, and toe kick boards.
Walkthrough	Walk the finished project with the client and make any final adjustments.

Timeline & Milestones

Cabinet lead time is typically 2-8 weeks depending on the brand. Installation takes 2-5 days.

Phase	Duration	Description
Selection & Order	1-2 weeks	Measurements, selections, and ordering.
Lead Time	2-8 weeks	Cabinet manufacturing and delivery.
Installation	2-5 days	Installation, hardware, and trim.

Roles & Responsibilities

Property Owner

•Make selections and approve layout
•Ensure space is ready for installation
•Be available for delivery coordination
•Process payments per the agreed schedule

Cabinet Contractor

•Take accurate measurements
•Create layout and place order
•Receive and inspect cabinets
•Install cabinets, hardware, and trim
•Walk the project and make final adjustments

Materials & Equipment

Cabinets

•Upper (wall) cabinets
•Base cabinets
•Tall/pantry cabinets
•Specialty units (corners, lazy susans)

Accessories

•Door and drawer hardware
•Interior organizers and pull-outs
•Crown molding and trim
•End panels and fillers

Installation Hardware

•Cabinet screws
•Shims
•Clamps
•Level

Quality Control Standards

Level & Plumb

All cabinets level and plumb. Upper cabinets aligned. Base cabinets level across the run.

Smooth Operation

All doors and drawers open and close smoothly with no sticking or misalignment.

Consistent Gaps

Even spacing between doors and drawers throughout the installation.

Safety Protocols

Heavy Lifting

Use a cabinet jack or helper for wall cabinets. Don't try to solo-hang uppers.

Electrical Safety

Turn off power before drilling near outlets. Know where wiring runs behind the walls.

Clean Workspace

Keep the work area clean and organized to prevent trips and falls.

Project Documentation

Signed contract and scope of work
Cabinet layout drawing
Order confirmation with quantities and sizes
Delivery receipt and damage report
Hardware selections
Warranty documentation

Financial Terms

Payment Structure

Cabinet projects typically split between material cost and installation labor.

Terms & Conditions

•Design/measurement deposit at signing
•Cabinet material deposit at order (typically 50%)
•Material balance due before delivery
•Installation payment due after completion
•Changes after order may incur restocking fees

Acceptance Criteria & Sign-Off

The project is considered complete when the following criteria are met:

1All cabinets installed per the approved layout
2Level, plumb, and securely mounted to studs
3Doors and drawers aligned and operating smoothly
4Hardware installed consistently
5Crown and trim completed
6No damage to finished cabinets

Frequently Asked Questions

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Cabinets Scope of Work Template