Common questions. Straight answers.

Modern Kitchen SD does not price the work. Cost depends on the existing layout, cabinet condition, materials, utility work, permits, and the contractor you choose. The contractor inspects the kitchen and puts the quote in writing.

The contractor you choose does. We are a referral service, so we do not quote the work or set the price. You get the number from the business that will do the job, in writing, before anything starts.

That is the contractor's call, not ours. Ask whether the first visit is billed before you book, and get the scope in writing before any work begins. This site does not publish free-estimate promises.

California Business and Professions Code 7159 caps home-improvement down payments at $1,000 or 10 percent of the contract price, whichever is less. That limit must appear in the contract in at least 12-point boldface type. Confirm the figure on the contract you sign.

Reface if the boxes are solid wood, square, and the layout works. Replace if the layout fights you, the boxes are particleboard, or you want a completely different kitchen. Ask the contractor to inspect the boxes and put the recommendation in writing. Modern Kitchen SD does not price either path.

Stock cabinets are fixed sizes, fastest lead time, most affordable. Semi-custom lets you change dimensions, finishes, and storage accessories. Custom is built to the room, your storage needs, and your style. Ask the contractor which line they actually build or install, and why it fits your layout.

Lead time is the shop's call and belongs in the written schedule. Ask the contractor to lock the install window against approved shop drawings, not against a verbal week count.

Often, if the layout and utilities allow it. Built-in pantry walls, coffee stations, appliance garages, and pull-out spice racks are common add-ons. Ask the contractor to draw them into the cabinet elevations so the look matches the rest of the kitchen.

Building permits may be required depending on the scope of work. Contact San Diego Development Services at 619-446-5000 to confirm requirements for your project. Do not assume the matched contractor pulls every permit. Name who pulls them in the written scope.

A structural engineer or architect makes that call, not a guess on site. Ask the contractor to get the engineering letter before anyone opens the wall, and confirm whether that step is in the written scope.

Ask the contractor which code edition the permit uses, and confirm it with the building department. This site does not publish circuit counts, amperage, or GFCI rules. Those belong in the contractor's plan and the inspector's list.

For a load-bearing wall, a licensed structural engineer typically sizes the beam and stamps the plan. Ask the contractor whether that letter is required for your wall and who pays for it. Do not assume the permit pulls without it.

We are a referral service. Tell us your city and project scope, and we will try to connect you with an independent kitchen remodeler that serves your area. The contractor evaluates the kitchen, sets the price and schedule, and contracts with you directly. Verify the contractor's current CSLB license and insurance at cslb.ca.gov before signing.

Neither. We are a referral service, not a contractor and not the crew. The remodeler on your job is an independent business. They sign the contract with you. Confirm license and insurance yourself. We do not warrant the work.

Then you are set, and there is nothing for us to do. We only match homeowners who are still looking. If you want a second bid to compare, call and we will try to point you at another remodeler who works your area.

The contractor you choose does, once the scope and quote are signed. Ask what is actually on the critical path: cabinet fabrication, stone template, permit review, or crew calendar. Get that in writing.

Quartz is usually picked for stain resistance, color consistency, and low maintenance. Granite is heat-tolerant and has natural variation. Pick by use case: busy family kitchens often lean quartz, while cooks who set hot pans down often lean granite or quartzite. Confirm care with the fabricator.

Subway in 3x6 or 4x8 sizes is the workhorse. Zellige, handmade-look ceramic, and large-format porcelain slabs show up often too. Ask the contractor to bring samples to the consult so you can see them against your cabinet and counter choices.

Luxury vinyl plank is a common pick for water resistance and cost. Porcelain tile is harder and more durable. Engineered hardwood looks good but needs more care near sinks and dishwashers. Ask the contractor what they spec at the dishwasher and sink, and why.

Light cabinets, light counters, a single undermount sink, and a slim pantry pull-out instead of a wall oven. Removing soffits, adding under-cabinet LED runs, and using open shelving where it does not kill storage all help too. Ask the contractor to sketch those options against the room you have.