Complete Guide to Drafting a Kitchen Remodeling Contract

A Kitchen Remodeling Contract is essential to establish clear expectations between a contractor and a homeowner. It should cover the project scope, timeline, costs, materials, responsibilities, and dispute resolution. Below is a guide outlining the necessary sections, followed by an example template.

Key Sections of a Kitchen Remodeling Contract

1. Contract Information

  • Date: The date the contract is signed.
  • Parties Involved: Names, addresses, and contact details of the homeowner and contractor.

2. Project Scope & Description

  • A detailed description of the work to be performed.
  • Specific tasks such as demolition, electrical work, plumbing, cabinetry, flooring, and painting.
  • Materials and appliances to be used, including brands and models if applicable.

3. Project Timeline

  • Estimated start and completion dates.
  • Key project milestones.
  • Allowances for unexpected delays.

4. Cost & Payment Terms

  • Total project cost with a breakdown of labor and materials.
  • Payment schedule (e.g., deposit, progress payments, and final payment).
  • Change order process and costs for additional work.

5. Permits & Approvals

  • Responsibility for obtaining necessary permits.
  • Compliance with local building codes.

6. Warranties & Guarantees

  • Warranty period for labor and materials.
  • Coverage for defects or faulty workmanship.

7. Liability & Insurance

  • Contractor’s insurance details, including general liability and workers’ compensation.
  • Indemnification clauses protecting both parties.

8. Dispute Resolution

  • Procedures for handling disputes, including mediation or arbitration.
  • Governing state laws.

9. Termination Clause

  • Conditions under which either party can terminate the contract.
  • Responsibilities regarding payment and work completion upon termination.

10. Signatures

  • Signatures of both parties with printed names and dates.

Example Kitchen Remodeling Contract Template

Kitchen Remodeling Contract
This Contract is made on [Date], between [Homeowner’s Name], residing at [Address], hereinafter referred to as the “Homeowner,” and [Contractor’s Name], of [Company Name], located at [Company Address], hereinafter referred to as the “Contractor.”

1. Project Scope

The Contractor agrees to perform the following work at [Project Address]:

  • Demolition of existing kitchen elements.
  • Installation of new cabinets, countertops, and flooring.
  • Electrical and plumbing upgrades as per attached specifications.
  • Painting and finishing work.

2. Project Timeline

  • Estimated Start Date: [Start Date]
  • Estimated Completion Date: [End Date]
  • Any delays due to unforeseen circumstances will be communicated in writing.

3. Cost & Payment Terms

Total Project Cost: $[Total Cost]

Payment Schedule:

  • Deposit (Due upon signing): $[Deposit Amount]
  • Progress Payment 1 (Due upon [Milestone]): $[Amount]
  • Final Payment (Due upon completion): $[Final Amount]

Changes to scope or materials will be documented in a written Change Order with agreed additional costs.

4. Permits & Approvals

The Contractor will obtain necessary permits and ensure work complies with local building codes.

5. Warranties

  • The Contractor warrants all labor and materials for [Warranty Period].
  • Manufacturer warranties apply where applicable.

6. Liability & Insurance

  • The Contractor holds liability insurance for $[Coverage Amount].
  • The Homeowner is not responsible for injuries sustained by Contractor’s employees.

7. Dispute Resolution

  • Any disputes will first be resolved through mediation.
  • If mediation fails, disputes shall be settled by binding arbitration under [State] law.

8. Termination Clause

Either party may terminate this contract with [Notice Period] days’ written notice. Any completed work will be compensated per agreed rates.

9. Signatures

By signing below, both parties agree to the terms of this contract.

Homeowner Signature: _______________
Printed Name: ___________________
Date: _______________

Contractor Signature: _______________
Printed Name: ___________________
Date: _______________


This template ensures clarity and protects both the homeowner and contractor throughout the remodeling process. Adjust specific details as necessary for each project.