How much contingency should I hold?

More for older homes and basements, where the unknowns behind walls are genuine; less for new construction. Rather than a percentage, ask your contractor what specifically they are uncertain about — that tells you where the risk actually sits.

Is a fixed-price quote really fixed?

It should be fixed for the stated scope. What can change it is a genuine change in scope — something found on site, or a decision you make later. A reputable contractor tells you before doing the extra work and prices it separately, rather than presenting it on the final invoice.

What if I find the quote missing something after signing?

Raise it immediately and in writing. Legitimate omissions get resolved reasonably. The reason to ask for exclusions up front is that this conversation is much easier before work starts than mid-project.

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Hidden Costs in Renovation Quotes

Updated July 25, 20262 min read

The short answer

Most "hidden" costs are not deception — they are items legitimately excluded because they cannot be known until something is opened up, or because another trade handles them. The problem is when they are not stated as exclusions. The fix is asking for the exclusions list, not just the inclusions.

Commonly excluded, and reasonably so

Removal and disposal: Taking out an old kitchen and getting it to the landfill is real work with real fees. Frequently a separate line, and it should be a stated one.
Drywall repair: Especially after trim removal, which tears paper along every run. Almost always needed, often not mentioned.
Electrical work: New circuits or outlets require a licensed electrician. Some carpenters include and coordinate; some do not.
Permit fees: Municipal fees, and the time to prepare an application.
Painting: Some quotes include finish coats, some hand over at a clean stage. This is a large line and it must be clear which.
What is found behind the wall: Nobody can quote for something they have not seen. What matters is how it will be handled and priced when found.

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Should not be missing

Filling and caulking: Part of the carpentry, not an extra. A quote that excludes it is quoting half a job.
Hardware: Hinges and slides are part of the cabinet. Decorative handles may reasonably be your supply, but that should be stated.
Delivery and installation: Unless explicitly supply-only, which should be obvious from the quote.
Site protection and clean-up: A basic professional standard.
Final adjustment: Aligning doors and drawers at the end is what makes a run look precise. It is not optional.

Answers

Frequently asked questions

How much contingency should I hold?: More for older homes and basements, where the unknowns behind walls are genuine; less for new construction. Rather than a percentage, ask your contractor what specifically they are uncertain about — that tells you where the risk actually sits.
Is a fixed-price quote really fixed?: It should be fixed for the stated scope. What can change it is a genuine change in scope — something found on site, or a decision you make later. A reputable contractor tells you before doing the extra work and prices it separately, rather than presenting it on the final invoice.
What if I find the quote missing something after signing?: Raise it immediately and in writing. Legitimate omissions get resolved reasonably. The reason to ask for exclusions up front is that this conversation is much easier before work starts than mid-project.

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