What does a kitchen scope of work include?

It covers design, demo, plumbing, electrical, cabinets, countertops, backsplash, flooring, appliances, and finishing. It's the complete kitchen project.

What should I select before construction starts?

Everything you can — cabinets, countertops, backsplash tile, flooring, fixtures, hardware, and appliances. Late selections are the #1 cause of kitchen project delays.

Can I stay in my house during a kitchen remodel?

Usually yes, but plan for a temporary kitchen setup. You won't have a sink, stove, or countertop for several weeks.

Any plumbing, electrical, or structural changes require permits. Your contractor should handle the permit process and schedule inspections.

Can I modify this template?

Yes. Scale for a full remodel, cabinet swap, cosmetic refresh, or outdoor kitchen.

Kitchen Scope of Work Template | Free Download 2026

A kitchen project has more moving parts than almost anything else in construction. A scope of work keeps the homeowner and contractor on the same page about what's being built, what it costs, and when it's done. This template covers the full kitchen scope — from design through finishing. It works for new kitchens, remodels, and additions. Customize it for your specific project.

Project Overview

This scope covers kitchen construction including layout, rough-in trades, cabinetry, surfaces, appliances, and finishing. Applicable to new construction, remodels, and additions.

Typical Projects Include:

New kitchen in addition or new home
Kitchen remodel with layout changes
Kitchen update (cabinets and counters)
Outdoor kitchen construction
Kitchenette installation
Kitchen expansion

Scope of Work

Planning & Rough-In

Task	Description
Kitchen Design	Finalize the kitchen layout — cabinet placement, appliance locations, and workflow.
Demolition	Remove existing kitchen elements as needed. Protect adjacent spaces.
Rough Plumbing	Rough in water, drain, and gas lines per the kitchen plan.
Rough Electrical	Install circuits, outlet boxes, and lighting per the electrical plan and code.

Construction

Task	Description
Drywall & Paint	Finish drywall, prime, and paint walls and ceiling before cabinet installation.
Flooring	Install kitchen flooring (before or after cabinets depending on material type).
Cabinets	Install all kitchen cabinets. Level, plumb, and secure. Install hardware.
Countertops	Template, fabricate, and install countertops with all cutouts.

Finishing

Task	Description
Backsplash	Install backsplash tile. Grout and seal.
Fixture Installation	Install sink, faucet, disposal, dishwasher, and lighting fixtures.
Appliances	Install and connect all kitchen appliances.
Final Details	Install trim, touch up paint, and complete the punch list.

Timeline & Milestones

Kitchen projects range from 2 weeks (cosmetic update) to 12+ weeks (full remodel with layout changes).

Phase	Duration	Description
Planning & Rough-In	2-4 weeks	Design, demo, plumbing, electrical, and inspections.
Construction	3-6 weeks	Drywall, flooring, cabinets, and countertops.
Finishing	1-3 weeks	Backsplash, fixtures, appliances, and punch list.

Roles & Responsibilities

Homeowner

•Finalize all selections before construction begins
•Plan for temporary kitchen during construction
•Be available for decisions and approvals
•Process payments per the agreed schedule

Kitchen Contractor

•Manage the project from design through completion
•Coordinate all trades and inspections
•Install or oversee all kitchen elements
•Maintain quality and timeline
•Complete punch list items

Materials & Equipment

Cabinetry

•Wall and base cabinets
•Pantry or specialty cabinets
•Hardware (knobs, pulls)
•Crown molding and trim

Surfaces

•Countertop material
•Backsplash tile
•Flooring
•Paint

Fixtures

•Sink and faucet
•Garbage disposal
•Lighting fixtures
•Appliance package

Quality Control Standards

Layout Execution

Finished kitchen matches the approved design — cabinet placement, appliance locations, and workflow.

Fit & Finish

Cabinets aligned, countertops fitted, tile grouted cleanly, and paint smooth.

Functionality

All plumbing, electrical, and appliances work correctly. No leaks, no trips.

Safety Protocols

Work Zone

Seal off the kitchen from living areas. Protect floors and walls from construction damage.

Utility Shutdown

Cap gas, water, and electrical before any demo or rough-in work.

Hazmat

Test older kitchens for lead and asbestos before demolition.

Project Documentation

Signed contract and scope of work
Kitchen design and layout
Selection schedule with all finishes
Permit and inspection records
Change order log
Appliance and product warranties

Financial Terms

Payment Structure

Kitchen projects use milestone-based payments tied to construction phases.

Terms & Conditions

•Design deposit at signing
•Payment at rough-in completion
•Payment at cabinet installation
•Payment at countertop installation
•Final payment at project completion
•Change orders in writing before work begins

Acceptance Criteria & Sign-Off

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

1Kitchen matches the approved design
2All cabinets and countertops installed properly
3Plumbing and electrical pass inspection
4Appliances installed and operational
5Backsplash and flooring complete
6Punch list addressed and signed off

Frequently Asked Questions

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Kitchen Scope of Work Template