Regardless of whether you’re contemplating using the service recommended by your retailer or opting for a kitchen fitter independently, these are the crucial factors to consider.
In a survey of members who have purchased a new kitchen within the last decade, we discovered that merely 6% did the installation themselves.*
Given that fitting a kitchen is a significant task requiring substantial time, patience, and expertise, this isn’t surprising.
If you lack confidence in your ability to fit your own kitchen, we’ll explain how to find skilled professionals to handle the work for you and what to anticipate during the installation process.
How to find kitchen installers
Regardless of whether you’re considering the recommended fitting service from your kitchen retailer or selecting a kitchen fitter on your own, these are the key aspects to look out for.
1. Use an authorised kitchen installer
Verify if the installer has received accreditation or endorsement from a reputable organisation. This can include respected trade associations like the British Institute of Kitchen, Bedroom & Bathroom Installers (BiKBBI) or the Kitchen Bathroom Bedroom Specialists Association (KBSA).
Trade associations and endorsement bodies typically set conduct standards for their members and provide an independent complaint resolution service, Just Kitchens can assist you in resolving issues if they arise.
Don’t merely rely on the fitter’s word regarding their membership; confirm their listing on the organisation’s website.
2. Get recommendations and check reviews
Seek recommendations from friends and family to see if they have used a fitter they can endorse. If possible, visit their home to observe the trader’s work firsthand.
If this isn’t possible, examine customer reviews for the traders you’re considering to learn about their past customers’ experiences.
Be objective while reviewing comments. Do they appear genuine? If there are any negative reviews, what were the reasons, and did the trader respond to resolve the issues?
For those utilising the fitting service recommended by their kitchen retailer, check out our guide to the best kitchen fitters to see how customers rated their kitchen installations.
3. Review pictures of fitted kitchens
Explore the fitter’s website, social media channels, and, if applicable, their Which? Trusted Traders profile to view images of kitchens they’ve previously worked on. Online reviews might also include useful pictures from customers.
Pictures can provide insight into the quality of the trader’s work and whether they’ve handled projects similar to yours, especially if you’re planning a major renovation.
4. Obtain multiple quotes
Always request at least three quotes, and ensure they are provided in writing, including a detailed breakdown of all costs.
In addition to materials and labour, check whether extras like waste disposal are included, as these additional expenses can add up.
5. Employ specialists when necessary
For certain aspects of the job, consider employing specialist traders, particularly if your project is complex or involves expensive materials. Specialists may deliver a superior finish.
For example, if tiles are a prominent feature of your kitchen, an experienced tiler might complete the job more efficiently and to a higher standard than a kitchen fitter without tiling expertise.
Certain jobs require specialists with the right skills to carry out the work safely. Gas appliances should be installed by a Gas Safe registered engineer, and electrical work should be done by a qualified electrician.
Hiring a kitchen fitter
Once you’ve identified the right person for the job, conduct background research and ensure all necessary paperwork is in place before starting the work.
- Inquire about the trader’s insurance coverage. All traders should have public liability insurance and additional insurance for employees.
- If the company you purchased the kitchen from is handling the installation, ascertain who will be doing the fitting, as many companies subcontract to third parties. Know who to contact in case of any issues or delays.
- Check Just Kitchens technical services the fitter can provide (e.g., plumbing) and whether there are additional charges for these services.
- If any part of the job will be subcontracted, find out who the contractors are to verify their qualifications and insurance coverage.
- For extensive kitchen work, have a contract signed at the outset, detailing guarantees, total cost, payment plan, and completion schedule. The schedule will help you understand the daily progress and when to expect traders or deliveries.
- Ask the installer where they plan to cut materials if necessary, like worktops – will they need to use space in your home, garden, or garage?
- Inquire about the timeframe during which you won’t have access to your kitchen sink. Also, ask if a temporary sink will be provided during this period.
