When hiring a carpenter for more complex jobs, always look for the number of years of experience in addition to references and previous projects. As a general rule, you will want a carpenter with at least five years experience to build your custom-made cabinets.

The Unites States does not have a regulatory agency for carpenters. In other countries, an apprenticeship of at least four years is required in order for a carpenter to be certified. This places the burden of confirming the carpenter's experience and expertise on the customer, through reference checks and inspection of past projects.

Although U.S. laws do not require it, many carpenters acquire a four-year apprenticeship certification through organizations such as, The Associated General Contractors, The United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America and the Associate Builders and Carpenters.