Short answer
- A full kitchen remodel usually takes 4–6 months from first meeting to finished kitchen.
- Construction itself typically takes 8–12 weeks; a same-layout refresh takes 3–5 weeks.
- We prepare permit drawings, submit them, respond to plan check and attend every inspection.
Step 1: Free in-home consultation
We start in your kitchen. We measure the room, look at the electrical panel, plumbing and structure, and ask how you cook, store and entertain. We also talk openly about budget, because a realistic range up front leads to a better design. You will leave the meeting with a clear sense of scope and next steps.
Step 2: Design and selections (3–6 weeks)
Our designer develops layout options, then refines your favorite into detailed plans, cabinet elevations and 3D renderings. Together we choose cabinetry, countertops, tile, plumbing fixtures, lighting, hardware and appliances. Everything goes onto one selections list with prices, so your estimate becomes a fixed, itemized proposal you can review line by line.
Making all major selections before construction is the best way to protect your schedule and budget. It lets us order long-lead items early and gives every trade the information they need from day one.
Step 3: Permits and ordering
Most kitchen remodels in San Mateo require a building permit, especially when electrical, plumbing, ventilation or walls change. We prepare and submit the drawings to the City of San Mateo Building Division, or to the County of San Mateo for homes in unincorporated areas such as the San Mateo Highlands. Neighboring cities like Burlingame, Foster City and Belmont each have their own building departments, and we handle those as well.
The city's kitchen remodel guidelines cover items such as venting range hoods to the outdoors, providing GFCI-protected outlets at islands, and using water-efficient faucets. California's Title 24 energy code also sets requirements for kitchen lighting. Building these requirements into the design from the start keeps plan review smooth.
Plan review times depend on the city's workload and the complexity of the project. While permits are in review, we order cabinets, appliances and other long-lead items so construction can move steadily once the permit is issued.
Step 4: Construction (8–12 weeks)
Before demolition, we protect floors and seal the work area with dust barriers. Then the build follows a predictable sequence:
- Demolition and prep (about 1 week): careful removal, haul-away and inspection of what is behind the walls.
- Framing and rough-in (1–2 weeks): structural changes, new plumbing, electrical and ventilation.
- Rough inspections: the city inspector reviews the work before walls are closed.
- Insulation, drywall and paint (1–2 weeks).
- Cabinet installation (1–2 weeks): set, leveled and scribed to the walls.
- Countertops (1–2 weeks): templating after cabinets are in, then fabrication and installation.
- Backsplash, flooring and trim (1–2 weeks).
- Fixtures and appliances (about 1 week): lighting, sink, faucet and appliance hookups.
Your project lead sends a weekly update with progress photos, upcoming work and any decisions needed, so you always know what is happening in your home.
Step 5: Final inspection and walkthrough
After final inspection, we walk through the kitchen with you, test every drawer, appliance and light, and complete a punch list of small finishing touches. You receive care instructions for your cabinets and countertops, appliance manuals and warranty information. Then the best part: cooking your first meal in your new kitchen.
Living at home during a kitchen remodel
Most San Mateo families stay home during their remodel. A few tips help it go smoothly:
- Set up a temporary kitchen in the dining room or garage with the old refrigerator, a microwave and a portable induction burner.
- Plan simple meals and use disposable or easy-to-wash dishes for the first few weeks.
- Keep pets and children away from the work area; we will keep the path in and out clear and protected.
- Expect some noise during demolition and installation, mostly between 8 am and 5 pm on weekdays.
What can change the timeline
The most common causes of delay are changes after construction starts, back-ordered materials and unexpected conditions inside older walls. We reduce these risks by finishing selections early, ordering long-lead items while permits are in review, and inspecting carefully before we price the work. When something does come up, we explain your options and the effect on schedule and cost before moving forward.
Ready to get started?
Book your free consultation and we will walk you through what your kitchen remodel would look like, step by step.