1. Document before anything moves
Photograph the space, note what’s there now, and hold off on demolition until there’s an actual plan.
2. Evaluate the house and site
Cabinet layout, appliance clearances, lighting, venting, plumbing runs, panel capacity, and any structural openings all have to agree before a single finish is chosen.
3. Put the scope on paper
Preparation, protection, materials, access, permits, testing, cleanup, and how changes get priced should all be written down up front.
4. Weigh more than the total
Confirm credentials, then compare what’s actually included in each bid rather than just the bottom-line number.
5. Confirm the job is actually done
Testing, cleanup, paperwork, warranty coverage, and any remaining maintenance should be confirmed before signing off.