Tip 1: Research — Where to Find Good Joineries
Google reviews are a starting point but not a reliable selection criterion on their own. Many excellent joineries in Munich have few online reviews because their clients come through recommendations. Ask around: architects, interior designers, and estate agents know the local trades scene from experience. The Munich and Upper Bavaria Chamber of Trades maintains a directory of registered joinery businesses — a good starting point to rule out unregistered operators. Platforms like Houzz or MyHammer can supplement your search, but look for verified reviews. If possible, visit the workshop: the condition of the machinery and the tidiness of the workspace often say more than any website.
Tip 2: Checking References — Properly
Every joinery will show you photos of beautiful projects. That is not enough. Ask for projects similar to yours — similar scope, similar materials, similar installation conditions. Request contact details for two to three previous clients you can approach directly. Reputable firms are happy to facilitate this. Ask reference clients specifically: Was the timeline met? Were there corrections needed, and how were they handled? Would you hire the joinery again? Also pay attention to photo documentation: a joinery that professionally documents its work generally works professionally. And do not just view projects on screen — ask whether you can visit a completed project in person.
Tip 3: The First Meeting — Questions You Should Ask
The first meeting is not a sales event — it is a mutual assessment. Ask these questions: Who does the planning, and who builds the furniture piece? In small shops this is often the same person; in larger ones, not necessarily. What materials does the joinery use as standard, and what alternatives exist? What does the planning process look like — are 3D visualisations provided? How long does the project take from commissioning to installation? Who coordinates installation and any collaboration with electricians or plumbers? What does the warranty cover? A good joiner will answer these questions patiently and transparently. If you sense that questions are perceived as annoying, that is a warning sign.
Tip 4: Reading and Comparing Quotes
A professional quote is detailed. It lists materials with exact descriptions (not just "wood" or "hardware"), names brands and product lines, breaks costs down by item, and clearly states what is included and what is not. Do not compare quotes solely by the final price. A quote for 12,000 euros without installation, travel, and disposal can end up costing more than one for 14,000 euros all-inclusive. Pay particular attention to these points: Is the survey included in the price? Are delivery and installation included? What does a change after design sign-off cost? Is this a fixed price or an estimate? With estimates, a deviation of 15 to 20 percent is common — with fixed prices, the joinery is liable.
Tip 5: Recognising Warning Signs
Not every joinery that does good work is right for every project. But there are clear warning signs you should heed. No written quote, or only a handwritten cost note on a notepad. No willingness to provide references. A price significantly lower than all other quotes — this suggests cheap materials, undercalculation, or unlicensed work. Unrealistic time promises: if someone promises you a custom kitchen in three weeks, either quality or schedule reliability is questionable. No clear statement on warranty. And: be cautious with firms demanding high advance payments — more than 30 percent at commissioning is unusual and risky.
Tip 6: Contract and Payment Schedule
A trade commission should be documented in writing — even if this is not always standard in the industry. The contract or order confirmation should contain at minimum: exact description of the scope of work, material specifications, total price or binding cost estimate with an upper limit, expected completion date, payment schedule, and warranty terms. A fair payment schedule typically looks like this: 20 to 30 percent at commissioning, 30 to 40 percent at production start or material order, and the remainder after acceptance. Acceptance should take place jointly on site, with minutes recording any defects. Insist on a remediation period.
Tip 7: Communication During the Project
Good communication often determines satisfaction with the result. Clarify at the start who your contact person is and which channels will be used. Some joineries use project management tools or shared folders for photos and documents — that is a good sign. Expect regular status updates, at least at milestones: after the survey, after design sign-off, during production (workshop photos), and before installation. If changes become necessary, document them in writing — verbal agreements lead to misunderstandings and disputes over additional costs. One final tip: take time for the installation. Be present on site, check the result thoroughly, and report defects immediately — not weeks later.