Remodel Estimate Template (Free, with a Sample Quote)
Part of Cost & Estimating
Quick answer
A remodel estimate breaks the job into demolition, each trade (framing, electrical, plumbing, drywall, flooring, finishes), materials and labor, and a contingency for what's behind the walls. Build one free: ballpark the budget with the construction cost calculator, then itemize it in the estimate maker and download a PDF.
Remodels are harder to estimate than new builds because you can't see everything until demo. A good remodel estimate itemizes each trade, prices materials and labor separately, and carries a bigger contingency (often 10–20%) for surprises.
What a remodel estimate should include
- Your company name, license and contact details.
- The customer and the project address.
- A line per phase or trade: demo, framing, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, drywall, flooring, paint, fixtures.
- Materials and labor split out for each line.
- Permits, dumpster/disposal and protection of the rest of the home.
- Overhead, profit and a 10–20% contingency.
- Scope, exclusions, allowances, a valid-until date and payment schedule.
Sample remodel estimate (200 ft² kitchen, standard)
| Line item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Demolition & disposal | $1,800 |
| Cabinets & countertops | $9,500 |
| Plumbing & electrical | $4,200 |
| Flooring & tile | $3,400 |
| Drywall, paint & trim | $2,600 |
| Labor & install | $6,500 |
| Contingency (15%) | $4,200 |
| Estimate total | $32,200 |
Interior remodels run roughly $100–$200+ per square foot depending on finishes — kitchens and baths land at the top because of cabinetry, tile and fixtures. Use the construction cost calculator for the top-down budget, then itemize each trade in the estimate maker and download the PDF. Source: 2026 US remodeling cost references. Last verified: June 2026.
FAQs
What should a remodel estimate include?
A line for each trade or phase (demo, framing, electrical, plumbing, drywall, flooring, finishes), materials and labor split out, permits and disposal, overhead and profit, and a 10–20% contingency for hidden conditions, plus allowances and a payment schedule.
How much contingency should a remodel estimate carry?
More than new construction — usually 10–20%. Older homes and anything that opens up walls (plumbing, wiring, rot, asbestos) carry the most risk, so the contingency protects both you and the client from change-order disputes.
What's the difference between a remodel estimate and a quote?
An estimate is approximate and can change as scope firms up; a quote is a fixed price that's binding once accepted. The estimate maker toggles the wording between the two.