A clearer cabinet comparison

Compare the paperwork, not just the price.

Two proposals can look similar while covering different cabinets, parts, services, and responsibilities. This checklist helps you normalize the details before you decide.

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A useful review is specific, written, and project-dependent.

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The comparison center

Make the unknowns visible.

Check an item when both proposals answer it clearly. If one does not, leave it open and ask for a written answer before treating the totals as comparable.

A fair comparison uses the same questions. RDF is a local cabinet and remodeling company, not an independent evaluator. This guide is a practical starting point; verify every claim with each contractor and your contract.

Write it down. Keep revised scopes, selections, and approvals with the quote.

Verify it. Credentials and responsibilities should be confirmed before signing.

Assign delivery. Confirm receiving, damage reporting, and storage.

Define changes. Never approve a verbal scope change.

Review itemBoth proposals clear?

Scope normalization

Compare like for like before comparing totals. Confirm both proposals use the same plans, quantities, and project assumptions.

Layout and dimensionsSame room plan, cabinet count, appliance openings, fillers, and clearancesVisible partsFinished ends, panels, toe kicks, mouldings, light rails, and valances are includedStorage and hardwarePull-outs, waste storage, organizers, lazy susans, and hardware are listed

Allowances, exclusions, and change orders

An allowance is not a final price. Ask who owns the risk when a selection or site condition changes.

Allowances are itemizedEach allowance names the product, quantity, labor, tax, and what happens if it is exceededExclusions are explicitCountertops, plumbing, electrical, permits, flooring, painting, demolition, and patching are assignedChange-order processWritten approval, pricing method, schedule impact, and payment timing are defined before work changes

Cabinet specifications

The brand name alone is not a specification. Request the series, construction details, and finish in writing.

Construction is identifiedBox material, frame style, joinery, drawer system, hinges, and finish are identifiedFinish and warrantyDoor style, sheen, color, touch-up process, and cabinet warranty terms are attachedAccessories and modificationsDecorative parts, interior fittings, panels, scribe, and non-standard modifications are included

Delivery and installation responsibilities

Clarify handoffs. A low installation number may leave receiving, protection, adjustment, or trade work with you.

Delivery and receivingDelivery location, unloading, inspection window, damage reporting, storage, and protection are clearInstallation scopeInstallation, removal, adjustment, cleanup, and who handles each trade are separatedSite readiness and closeoutWho verifies walls and floors, coordinates appliances, fixes punch-list items, and obtains sign-off is named

Contractor credentials and terms

Use the same questions for every contractor. Verify details independently and keep copies of the answers.

Credentials and insuranceLegal business name, license where applicable, insurance, references, and warranty contact are providedTiming and validityQuote date, validity window, lead time, milestones, deposits, and balance schedule are notedContract protectionsCancellation terms, dispute process, lien releases, permits, and responsibility for subcontractors are clear

Questions before signing

Do not rely on a verbal promise. Add answers or revised documents to the contract package.

What is still unknown?Every blank, allowance, exclusion, substitution, and owner-supplied item has an owner and deadlineWhat happens if plans change?The written change-order path covers price, lead time, and approval before work proceedsWho is my point of contact?A named contact and escalation path are available for delivery, installation, damage, and warranty issues

Questions left open: 18. Save or print this page for your conversation.

Your next useful step

Bring the real details to the table.

Request a consultation, ask about cabinet-only purchasing, or submit a written proposal for RDF's private review. Current availability and project terms are confirmed case by case.

Request a consultation Ask about cabinets only