How much does reupholstery cost? An estimate checklist

A useful upholstery quote describes a specific job. Recovering a dining seat, replacing cushion inserts and rebuilding a sofa are different scopes. Comparing totals before checking what is included can make a lower quote look better than it is.

Prepare a project brief

1. Name the furniture and quantity. Include your city and whether pickup is needed.
2. Take front, side and back photos, plus a view under removable cushions and close-ups of damage. Leave powered or sprung mechanisms intact.
3. Measure overall width, depth and height, marking inches or centimeters. Record cushion dimensions separately and label approximate measurements.
4. Describe the setting: home, restaurant, office or outdoor space. Explain the problem and whether you want appearance, support or structural repairs.
5. Say who will supply the fabric. For customer-supplied material, share its manufacturer, product reference and usable width before ordering.

Compare the same line items

• Cover work: fabric, seams, piping, buttons, zippers and pattern alignment.
• Cushions and suspension: which foam, batting, webbing or springs are included.
• Frame work: confirmed repairs versus hidden damage requiring inspection.
• Logistics: pickup, delivery, disassembly, installation, applicable taxes and disposal.
• Terms: currency, estimate validity, agreed deposit, expected timing and written approval for additional work.

Ask what could change the estimate

Photos cannot reveal every loose joint or damaged spring. Ask the upholsterer to separate confirmed work from inspection-dependent repairs. Agree on a pause for approval before additional work starts, and keep the revised scope with your original estimate.