Cabinetry Licensing in Quebec

Cabinetmaking in Quebec does not require a specific provincial licence for individual workers. Unlike some construction trades, cabinetmaking is not specifically listed as a CCQ trade, so the CCQ competency certificate requirements do not apply in the same way. However, contractors who install cabinets as part of larger construction or renovation projects may need the appropriate RBQ licence. A Diploma of Vocational Studies (DEP) in cabinetmaking is available through Quebec's vocational education system. If cabinet installation involves plumbing or electrical modifications, licensed tradespeople with appropriate CMMTQ or CMEQ credentials are required. Red Seal endorsement is available for cabinetmakers for interprovincial mobility.

Ask about their training (DEP in cabinetmaking) and review their portfolio. If part of a renovation, ask for the contractor's RBQ licence number.

(1) No sample materials or portfolio of previous work (2) Skips the measurement and design phase, quoting from photos alone (3) Does not check walls for level and plumb before installation (4) Uses drywall screws instead of proper cabinet screws and does not anchor to studs

(1) Can I see samples of the materials and finishes you offer? (2) What type of cabinet box construction do you use (plywood vs. particleboard)? (3) How do you handle out-of-square walls during installation? (4) What is the lead time for fabrication and installation? (5) What warranty do you offer on materials and workmanship?

While not legally required, it is strongly recommended that cabinetrys carry liability insurance. Ask for proof of coverage before hiring.

The Red Seal endorsement is a nationally recognized certification that allows tradespeople to work across all Canadian provinces and territories without additional testing. A Red Seal-endorsed tradesperson has met a standardized level of competency.

In Quebec, most contractors performing construction work must hold an RBQ (Régie du bâtiment du Québec) licence. You can verify any contractor's licence on the RBQ's online Licence Holders' Registry at rbq.gouv.qc.ca. Always ask for the licence number and verify it before hiring.

Typical rates for cabinetrys in Quebec range from $50-$100/hour. Cabinet type (stock, semi-custom, or custom), material (melamine, MDF, plywood, solid wood), door style and finish, hardware quality, number of cabinets and linear footage, layout complexity, countertop removal and reinstallation, and whether plumbing or electrical need to be moved. Custom cabinetry requires design time and longer lead times (6-12 weeks for fabrication). Labour for installation accounts for 15-25% of the total project cost. GTA prices are 15-20% higher than smaller Ontario communities.