Choosing the Right Cabinet & Countertop Partner – A Preconstruction Team’s Checklist
Selecting the right cabinet and countertop partner before the bidding stage is critical to ensuring cost control, schedule alignment, and project quality.
Use this checklist to guide your evaluation process – there’s a downloadable guide below too!
Qualifications & Risk Coverage
Start by confirming that your potential partner is properly licensed and carries up-to-date liability and workers' compensation insurance. Keep in mind that licensing requirements can vary depending on the state where the project is located, so it’s essential they’re compliant in your specific jurisdiction.
It’s also worth checking if your subcontractor follows recognized industry standards, such as those set by the Natural Stone Institute or the Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturers Association, which signal quality and credibility.
For larger commercial projects, verify whether the partner has bonding capacity - this can be a critical requirement for public or higher-risk developments.
Just as important, look for a subcontractor with a zero default history, which reflects financial stability and a proven ability to meet their contractual obligations.
Experience & References
Experience with commercial or multi-family projects is key. Ask about the scope and scale of past work, and don’t hesitate to request and follow up on references from recent clients. A proven track record reduces risk during execution.
Material Quality & Selection
Ensure your partner offers a wide and dependable selection of materials. Request samples to review both the look and the technical specifications, so you know exactly what’s being delivered.
Lead Times & Delivery Capability
Clarify production timelines and delivery scheduling. Ask if they can support phased delivery or fast-tracked timelines when needed. Delays at this stage can cascade, so reliability here is crucial.
Communication & Responsiveness
Establish a clear point of contact from day one. Gauge their responsiveness and willingness to provide proactive updates throughout both the bidding and execution phases. Strong communication prevents missteps and improves coordination.
Scope Clarity & Budget Alignment
Request an itemized estimate with a clear breakdown of what’s included - details like cabinet accessories, countertop thickness, other material specifications, and manufacturer information. Understand how pricing may shift with material upgrades, substitutions, or value engineering. Early clarity on scope and inclusions reduces the risk of later disputes.
Warranty & Post-Install Support
Inquire about both labor and material warranties. Equally important is knowing how they handle punch items, service calls, or warranty claims after installation is complete.
Safety Record & Certifications
A qualified subcontractor brings more than price and product - they bring a proven commitment to safety. Poor safety practices can lead to project delays, added liability, and increased risk on your site.
Look for a team with documented safety records, low incident rates, and crew certifications like OSHA 10/30, First Aid, CPR, and etc. An active, ongoing safety program - not just basic compliance - along with a clear process for incident investigation and follow-up, shows they take safety as seriously as you do.
Risk Control
Explore what contingency plans they have for supply chain disruptions or labor shortages. Confirm they’re comfortable operating within your project management system - whether that’s Procore, BuildUp, or another platform. Additionally, ask if they have in-house technical or engineering support. This can help minimize errors and reduce RFIs by resolving issues early in the preconstruction phase.
Business Certifications
Consider whether they hold certifications such as MBE (Minority Business Enterprise) or SBE (Small Business Enterprise), especially if your project involves public funding or supplier diversity goals.
When you’re managing multiple trades and tight timelines, the right vendor makes all the difference. Look for partners who understand the pace and precision your team demands—those who bring transparency, technical expertise, and flexibility to the table.
If you’re still searching for a contractor who checks all the right boxes, it may be time to consider a partner who truly understands the demands of preconstruction. Learn more about us.