The Estimation Process at RenoDuck

A good estimate isn’t just a number on a page it’s a roadmap for your entire renovation. At RenoDuck, we spend time understanding your project, your goals, and your budget before we provide a quote.

Our estimation process includes:

  1. In-Home Site Survey: Our project manager visits your property and takes detailed measurements, photographs, and notes. We assess existing conditions, identify any structural concerns, and document the scope of work.
  2. Material Specifications: Every material is listed by brand, grade, and quantity. You’ll know exactly what’s going into your renovation, not generic substitutes or vague “materials as per specification.”
  3. Labour Breakdown: We itemize labour by trade (framing, electrical, plumbing, drywall, finishing) and provide estimated hours and rates. This transparency helps you understand where every labour dollar is going.
  4. Permits & Inspections: Municipal permit costs and inspection fees are included and clearly itemized. No hidden fees tacked on at the end.
  5. Timeline: Your estimate includes a realistic project timeline with key milestones. You’ll know when framing should be complete, when city inspections occur, and when you can move back into your renovated space.

How We Maintain Estimate Accuracy

Over-estimation and under-estimation both create problems. Over-estimate and you’ll shop elsewhere; under-estimate and we’ll lose money trying to honour a low quote. That’s not sustainable, and it often leads to inferior workmanship.

RenoDuck maintains accuracy through:

  • Experience: With 8+ years of basement, kitchen, and whole-home renovations across the GTA, our estimators have real-world data on material costs, labour productivity, and timeline risk.
  • Current Pricing: We update material costs quarterly based on supplier pricing. Our 2026 estimates reflect actual market conditions in Ontario, not outdated spreadsheets.
  • Contingency Reserve: We build a 5 – 8% contingency into estimates for unforeseen conditions (hidden structural damage, asbestos abatement, soil remediation). This isn’t a blank cheque, it’s a realistic buffer for the unknowns every renovation encounters.
  • In-House Expertise: Because our trades are in-house, we know exactly how long a plumbing rough-in takes or how many hours of labour a kitchen island requires. We’re not guessing based on industry averages.

Reading Your RenoDuck Estimate

When you receive an estimate from RenoDuck, you’ll see:

  • Project Scope: A narrative description of what’s included (e.g., full basement finishing with 1×2 bedroom, 1 full bath, laundry, insulation, drywall, flooring, trim, and permits).
  • Material Schedule: Every material item listed with brand, grade, quantity, and unit cost.
  • Labour Summary: Labour hours by trade with rates.
  • Permit & Inspection Costs: Municipal fees itemized separately.
  • Contingency: Clearly stated as a percentage reserve for unforeseen conditions.
  • Timeline: Estimated start and completion dates with key milestones.
  • Payment Schedule: If your project spans multiple months, we’ll outline progress payments aligned with major milestones.
  • Terms & Conditions: Warranty coverage, cancellation policy, and contract terms.

What Happens If Conditions Change

Real renovations don’t always go exactly as planned. If we uncover structural issues, hidden damage, or code-compliance problems during work, we’ll document the discovery, photograph it, and present you with a detailed change order before proceeding.

Change orders are itemized the same way your original estimate is no guessing, no vague costs. You’ll know exactly what the change costs and why.

Ready for a detailed, accurate estimate? Contact RenoDuck for a free in-home consultation. We’ll provide a comprehensive estimate that breaks down every cost and every step of your renovation. 

 Call +1-647-559-1671 or get an estimate.