Kitchen Fitting Cost

Wondering how much it'll cost to fit a new kitchen?

This guide includes a detailed breakdown of key material and labour costs, from average kitchen installation costs and day rates for kitchen fitters, to what affects the price of labour-only fitting, and what the process of getting your kitchen installed entails.

A kitchen renovation is a process, and it pays to get quotes early, even if you're just weighing up your options. There's no commitment - it simply gives you a clearer idea of the potential installation costs and what to expect.

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How Much to Fit a Kitchen?

The total cost of a new kitchen in the UK depends on:

• The quality of materials (e.g., ceramic tiles vs. marble tiles)
• The size of the room
• The complexity of the installation

The average cost of labour to fit a new kitchen is £1,700.

Adding basic material and appliance costs can bring the total for a new kitchen up to £5,000. Mid-range and high-end kitchens cost significantly more.

The table below provides a full cost breakdown for three common project tiers, combining the price of materials and labour to give you a realistic total budget:

Here’s how those total project costs typically break down by the size of kitchen:

• Small Kitchen (approx. 9m²) - £4,500 to £7,000. This budget covers a simple layout with budget-friendly units and laminate worktops.
• Medium Kitchen (approx. 15m²) - £7,500 to £10,000. This allows for mid-range units, solid wood or quartz worktops, and a wider range of appliances.
• Large Kitchen (20m²+) - £10,000 to £20,000+. This is typical for larger spaces, open-plan designs, premium materials, and high-end smart appliances.

Looking for an easy way to calculate kitchen installation costs?

Use our kitchen fitting cost calculator below and get a quick quote for your dream kitchen to get your project started:

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Cost to Fit a New Kitchen (Labour Only)?

The total labour cost is the biggest variable when installing a new kitchen.

On average, the labour-only cost to fit a standard kitchen in the UK is between £1,000 and £3,000.

However, this price can change depending on the size of your kitchen, the complexity of the job, and where you live in the UK.

Your final bill is determined by the type of tradespeople you need, and the time it takes to complete the work.

Let's break down how fitters calculate their prices and the typical costs for each trade.

How Are Labour Only Kitchen Fitting Costs Calculated?

There are three common ways a kitchen fitter or builder will price your job:

• Fixed Quote - This is the most common and recommended method for a full kitchen installation. The fitter assesses the entire job (from the number of units to the type of worktop), and gives you a single, fixed price for all the work. This is great for you because the price won't change unless you add or remove work later on, giving you complete cost certainty.
• Day Rate - For smaller tasks or projects where the scope is uncertain, a fitter may charge a day rate. This is simply a set price for a day's work, which doesn't include materials. In 2026, the average UK day rate for a skilled kitchen fitter is £200 to £300.
• Cost Per Unit - Some fitters might provide an initial estimate based on the number of cabinets or units they need to install. The price is often between £100 and £150 per unit. This model is typically used for very simple, dry-fit installations and is usually rolled into a final fixed quote for the whole project.

Labour Costs and Timescales

Fitting a kitchen would typically be carried out by a single kitchen fitter working alone, but depending on the size and complexity of the job, additional labour and tradespersons may be needed.

The following will show you all the labour costs and also the durations of the fitting:

Costs for Specific Installation Jobs

While most fitters provide a fixed quote for the whole job, that price is based on the cost of individual tasks.

To give you an idea, here are some typical standalone prices for common kitchen fitting jobs:

• Fitting a Worktop - £300 to £800 (depending on material)
• Installing a Sink & Taps - £150 to £300
• Fitting a Built-in Oven - £100 to £200
• Tiling a Splashback (per m²) - £40 to £60

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Cost of Kitchen Materials

While labour is a key expense, the materials you choose will form a large part of your budget. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect for units, worktops, and flooring.

Kitchen Units

The price of your kitchen units is determined by the materials used for both the carcasses (the main body of the cabinet) and the doors. Here are the most common options:

• Chipboard - The most budget-friendly material, constructed from wood particles mixed with resin and pressed together. It's the standard for most affordable kitchens.
• MDF (Medium-Density Fibreboard) - A popular and versatile budget-friendly option. It creates a smooth surface perfect for painted or vinyl-wrapped doors, but it must be properly sealed to ensure it lasts.
• Solid Wood - By far the most durable and long-lasting material. As the premium choice, solid wood is also the most expensive but can last for over 20 years with proper care.

Kitchen Worktops

Your choice of worktop has a huge impact on both the look and the total cost of your kitchen.

From budget-friendly laminate to premium natural stone, kitchen worktop prices vary significantly:

• Laminate - Laminate worktops are the most budget-friendly, versatile option, and are available in countless colours and finishes.
• Solid Wood - Offers a classic, warm aesthetic but requires regular oiling to prevent water damage.
• Quartz & Granite - Premium, highly durable, and heat-resistant natural stone options that require professional templating and fitting.
• Corian (Solid Surface) - Corian worktops are made from a high-end acrylic material that can be seamlessly joined for a modern, non-porous finish.

Kitchen Flooring

A new floor needs to be durable, water-resistant, and match your kitchen's style. Popular choices vary in price, with costs typically quoted per square metre (m²), excluding the cost of fitting.

• Vinyl Flooring - A budget-friendly, waterproof option that is very quick to install.
• Laminate Flooring - Offers a popular wood-effect look at a lower cost than real wood.
• Tile Flooring - Extremely durable and available in a vast range of styles, from ceramic to natural stone.
• Solid Wood Flooring - A premium, long-lasting option that adds warmth but requires more maintenance than other materials.

Additional Kitchen Fitting Costs

Here are the additional costs of fitting a kitchen that you need to consider:

Kitchen Appliances

The cost of appliances is a major part of your total budget and can vary significantly based on brand and features. While you can buy all the essential appliances for under £2,000, premium models can easily exceed £10,000.

Appliances with smart features—like Wi-Fi connectivity, touch screens, or app integration—typically sit in the mid-to-high end of these price ranges.

Here’s what you could expect to pay for new appliances, but the actual cost will depend on your tastes and required functionality:

• Oven - £300 to £1,500+
• Hob (Induction/Gas) - £200 to £1,200+
• Fridge/Freezer (Integrated) - £400 to £2,500+
• Dishwasher (Integrated) - £300 to £1,000+

You will need to budget for the separate labour cost of installing these appliances, especially if new plumbing or electrical connections are required.

Due to the number of appliances there are to choose from, there is no set or approximate cost that can be predicted without a budget in mind.

For example, ovens come in prices from £150 for a basic style, all the way up to £5,000+ for computerised smart self-cleaning varieties.

Lights and Power

Kitchen lighting prices can vary depending on the size of the kitchen, existing fittings, and the design of the new light fittings chosen.

Windows

When carrying out a complete kitchen remodel, many homeowners also take the opportunity to improve natural light in the space. This could mean fitting a new or larger window, replacing old frames with modern uPVC windows, or even adding a skylight if the layout allows.

These kinds of upgrades not only make your kitchen brighter and more inviting but can also increase property appeal. Expect to pay around £400 to £800 for a set of UPVC windows fitted, depending on size, materials, and access.

Waste Removal Cost

Another cost to account for is the disposal of waste during the installation process. Waste disposal will usually consist of simply hiring a skip. A skip is a large metal container used like a bin for the disposal of building waste.

Skip hire costs begins at around £150 for a single skip hired for a week. Included in the price of the hire is usually the cost of collection and disposal of the waste.

Cost of Kitchen Removal

The removal of a kitchen is a thing which may need to be considered before you remodel. If you have an old, dilapidated kitchen already on your property, you may wish to replace it with a newer, nicer-looking build.

Units from a simple small kitchen (12m²) can usually be torn out by almost anyone. However, a larger kitchen with pipes and electrics, which may need removing, is, by far, more complex. Either size will require a few basic elements, such as a skip or waste removal, labour, and basic cleaning supplies. Skip hire will usually cost around £200 for a single skip, hired for a week, with pick up and disposal. This may not be large enough for a large kitchen.

Often, when removing a larger kitchen, you will be best served by hiring a tradesman such as a general builder. They can usually provide all the tools needed and even dispose of the waste produced.

An average builder will be able to complete an old kitchen removal within 3 days. This means it would cost you an average of £500, including the skip hire costs and labour.

What Affects Kitchen Fitting Costs?

You can't change average labour costs, but you can impact the total price by reducing how much work needs to be done on site.

Here are the main areas that impact the overall cost of fitting a new kitchen:

• Kitchen Size and Layout - Bigger kitchens carry a higher price per square metre. While you can't change this fact, you can do some of the prep work yourself and clear the room ready for your kitchen fitters.
• Plumbing and electrics - Unless you're a Gas Safe Engineer or registered electrician, there's not much you can do here to reduce the time required to fit new electrics or plumbing.
• Worktop Material and Installation Complexity - Some worktops - like laminate - are easy and quick to install as a DIY project, while high-end materials like quartz or marble need specialist worktop fitters.
• Ease of Access and Location - An unavoidable cost factor is your geographical location. Those based in London or the surrounding areas can easily see an extra 10% to 25% added to any kitchen fitting labour fees.

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What's Involved in Fitting a Kitchen?

Kitchen installations typically follow a similar pattern - here's what to expect when your kitchen fitters get started on your project:

Before the Job Starts

• Budget and Project Scope Agreed - With your kitchen fitter, you'll decide what your project will involve, and what your ideal overall kitchen installation cost is.
• Kitchen Designed and Quote Finalised - Taking your existing kitchen into consideration, your dream kitchen will be designed, choosing your new appliances and cabinetry. The cost of kitchen fitting will also be agreed.
• Preparing the Space - Your old kitchen will be removed, and the site will need to be cleared ready for the new installation.

During the Job

• Dry Installation Begins - Your kitchen fitter will install new kitchen cupboards, including wall and base units, ensuring everything is level and secure.
• Wet Installation Begins - Plumbing and electrics are upgraded and installed by qualified professionals.
• Worktops Installed - Depending on the worktop material, this can take a few hours or a number of days.
• Appliances are Connected - Gas appliances are connected by Gas Safe Engineers (e.g., gas cookers), and any electrics (e.g., electric cookers), are connected by a registered electrician.

After the Job

• Decorating and Making Good - Once your kitchen units, kitchen sink, and everything in between have been installed, you are free to decorate your new kitchen.
• Site Cleaned and Handed Over - You'll be shown how to use your new appliances before your kitchen fitter signs off the work.

What Are the Benefits of Fitting a New Kitchen?

Fitting a new kitchen is a major home improvement that offers several key benefits, from increasing your property's value to improving everyday functionality and energy efficiency.

Improved Practicality and Function

A new kitchen is an opportunity to fix an outdated or inefficient layout. By rethinking the design, you can create a practical space tailored to your lifestyle, whether you want a comfortable family hub or a highly equipped kitchen for serious cooking. This improves the daily workflow and makes the room far more functional.

Looking for some inspiration?

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Modernising or Updating

Updating your kitchen brings it into the present day with modern styles and appliances. For a long-term investment, consider 'future-proofing' by choosing high-quality, energy-efficient smart appliances. This ensures your kitchen remains technologically relevant and won't feel dated in just a few years.

Reducing Energy Consumption

Modern, A-rated appliances are designed to be highly energy-efficient. Upgrading from older models can significantly reduce your electricity and water consumption, leading to direct savings on your utility bills and a smaller environmental footprint.

Creating More Space/Storage

One of the most common goals of a kitchen remodel is to gain more storage. A new design can incorporate clever solutions like full-height cabinets, pull-out larders, and integrated storage to make the most of every inch. This helps to declutter worktops and creates a more organised and spacious feel.

Will Fitting a New Kitchen Add Value to My Home?

A well-planned kitchen installation can add real value to your property. Updating the layout, adding new appliances, and improving the overall design can make your home more appealing to buyers.

A modern kitchen can boost a property’s value by 5% to 6%, meaning a home worth £250,000 could rise to around £265,000 after a quality kitchen remodel.

However, a poorly executed kitchen refit can have the opposite effect, so it’s important to plan carefully and hire skilled kitchen fitters to carry out the work.

Can I Fit a Kitchen Myself?

A basic pre-built kitchen can be self-installed. However, this is not a simple undertaking and will require many new skills to be learnt.

From carpentry, accurate measuring, and plumbing to tiling, decorating, and floor laying, it will typically be cheaper to hire a qualified and skilled tradesman.

Hiring a tradesman to remodel a kitchen does not mean you cannot attempt various simple jobs yourself. Painting the cupboards, sealing the worktops, and even helping out the hired tradesman are all things you could try installing once the difficult parts are completed.

However, one feature that you should never try to undertake yourself (without qualifications) is electrical and gas work.

Electrical and gas work is extremely dangerous, both during installation and afterwards; therefore, always hire a qualified electrician to install electrical equipment and a gas engineer to install gas equipment.

Do I Need an Architect to Design a New Kitchen?

When planning a kitchen remodel, building plans or drawings may need to be created. Usually, a specialist designer or architect can create these plans in order to make sure the correct materials and the correct style are used, and you get the results you want.

Bear in mind this will, however, take up a large section of the overall labour budget, considering it will be one of the smaller jobs involved. The cost to hire an architect or specialist designer is usually around £200 per day.

However, they would usually charge by a completed job rather than per day. This would be around £1,000 to £2,500 for a completed design, drawing, and technical specifications.

Alternatively, you could ask your carpenter (if hired) to draw up the plans for your cupboards and worktops. This process can also be performed by your general builder or kitchen fitter (depending on your choice of hire), obviously dependent on their skill set.

Having your already hired tradesmen create the plans they have to work to will allow a great level of ease for them to install and save you a reasonable amount of money in the long run.

How to Keep Your Kitchen Fitting Costs Down

The budget of a kitchen is a very important factor in the remodelling process.

Saving money is important regardless of the size of the budget available. However, those on a fixed or limited budget will benefit the most from certain cost-saving actions.

• Sell Your Old Appliances - Before you begin, consider selling your existing appliances online if they're in good working order. A used cooker or fridge can still fetch a reasonable price, helping to offset the cost of new ones.
• Compare Prices on Materials - The price for the exact same items—from units to taps—can vary significantly between retailers. Always shop around and compare costs from different suppliers before making a final purchase.
• Do the Rip-Out Yourself - Removing the old kitchen is labour-intensive but doesn't require a high level of skill. By tackling this yourself, you could save a full day or more of labour costs from your final bill.
• Sell Your Old Kitchen - Don't just throw away your old units. If they are still in good condition and you're simply changing the style of your kitchen, the old unit may still have some value.
• Create and Stick to a Detailed Budget - Before buying anything, list every component you need and research the best price for each. A detailed plan is the best way to prevent overspending and ensure you have enough funds to complete the project.
• Wait for Seasonal Sales - Kitchen and appliance retailers have sales events throughout the year. Planning your purchases around these sales can often save you up to 50% on big-ticket items or allow you to upgrade to a better model within your budget.

Checklist: Hiring a Kitchen Fitter

When looking into the cost of fitting a kitchen, it's easy to get overwhelmed with options.

Here's a simple no-frills checklist to keep in mind when looking at local kitchen fitters:

• Are they qualified? Depending on the kitchen fitter hired, qualifications to look out for are CSCS certifications, City and Guild levels, or college-gained qualifications such as HNCs.
• Are they insured? Make sure they possess at least third-party liability, but ideally, your fitter should have public liability insurance.
• Can you look at their past work? Look at the contractor's MyJobQuote profile to read reviews from past clients and look at any photos/videos in their portfolio to get an idea of their quality.
• Do they offer a written quote? Best practice is to get all quotes in written format, and itemised to include every aspect of the project's scope.
• Is waste removal included? Check this before agreeing to work with a trader, as it can be a potentially hidden cost if not initially discussed and agreed.
• Do they offer a guarantee? Try to find a trader with a 5-year guarantee or greater. This means that if any problems arise, you're covered and they will fix their mistakes at no expense to you.

Try to get at least 3 quotes from kitchen fitters near you to get an idea of local prices in your area. Armed with this knowledge, you can make an informed decision about who to hire for your kitchen reno project.

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