Hiring a kitchen renovator: what to ask, what to avoid
Two kitchen renovation quotes for the “same” job often aren't the same job at all — the gap is usually scope: what's included, what's billed as an extra, and what you confirmed before you booked. Here's how to tell a fair deal from an expensive one, grounded in real pricing data.
The one that catches most people out
Not getting a detailed scope breakdown
A $15,000 quote and a $35,000 quote might include completely different things. Get itemised lists.
Questions to ask a kitchen renovator
Most overcharging hides in the scope, not the headline price. These pin it down before you commit.
- 1
Does your quote include appliances, or is that extra?
- 2
Is splashback part of the price, or charged separately?
If it's extra, expect around $1,000–$3,000.
- 3
Will I be charged extra for flooring?
- 4
Is lighting included, or an add-on?
- 5
Can you put the full scope and the final price in writing before any work starts?
Scope disputes are the single most common complaint. A written list is what protects you.
- 6
Is GST included in the price you have quoted?
A sole trader under $75k turnover can legally leave GST off, which makes a quote look about 10% cheaper than a registered business for the same work.
Three checks that take five minutes
Check the licence
For licensed trades, ask for the licence number and confirm it on your state's fair-trading or licensing site before you book. Unlicensed work can void your insurance.
Confirm they're insured
Public liability cover protects you if something gets damaged on the job. If an operator can't confirm it, that's a red flag.
Insist on a written quote
A fair quote itemises the scope, names what's excluded, and states whether GST is included. Verbal quotes are where disputes start.
Other mistakes worth avoiding
Forgetting temporary kitchen costs
You will be without a kitchen for 2-4 weeks. Factor in eating out or a temporary setup.
What's usually included, and what costs extra
Usually included
- ✓Cabinet supply and install
- ✓Benchtop
- ✓Basic plumbing connection
- ✓Basic electrical
Usually charged extra
- +Appliances
- +Splashback · $1,000–$3,000
- +Flooring
- +Lighting
- +Gas relocation
- +Structural changes
- +Council permits
What pushes the price up: stone vs laminate benchtops, structural changes, plumbing/gas relocation, appliance quality, custom vs flat-pack cabinets, demolition complexity.
Kitchen Renovation questions, answered
How long does a kitchen reno take?+
Do I need council approval?+
Already have a quote?
Check it against real kitchen renovation prices in 30 seconds, then walk in knowing exactly what to ask.