Kitchen Fitter: What They Do, How to Choose, and What It Really Costs

When you hire a kitchen fitter, a skilled tradesperson who installs kitchen units, appliances, plumbing, and electrics in homes. Also known as a kitchen installer, it’s not just about putting cabinets on walls—it’s about making sure everything fits, works, and lasts for decades. A good kitchen fitter doesn’t just follow a plan. They check for level floors, square walls, and hidden pipes. They know how to work around existing wiring, adjust for uneven surfaces, and seal joints so water doesn’t creep in behind the cabinets. In the UK, many homeowners think a handyman can do it, but a proper kitchen fitter has specific training in plumbing, gas safety, and electrical compliance—especially if you’re moving sinks, hobs, or fridges.

What you pay depends on who you hire. A kitchen installation, the full process of fitting cabinets, worktops, sinks, and appliances into a space can range from £2,000 to £8,000 in the UK, depending on complexity. If you’re replacing a kitchen with similar layout, expect to pay less. But if you’re moving the sink to the other side of the room, you’re now dealing with plumbing reroutes, new drainage, and possibly electrical upgrades—that’s where the cost jumps. The kitchen remodel cost, the total expense of updating a kitchen’s layout, materials, and systems often surprises people because they forget about the hidden stuff: removing old units, disposing of waste, patching walls, and retiling. Some fitters quote low to win the job, then add charges later. Always ask for a line-by-line breakdown.

Choosing the right person matters more than price. Check if they’re registered with Gas Safe if gas appliances are involved. Ask for photos of past jobs—not just the shiny finished product, but the messy middle stages. Look for someone who shows up on time, cleans up after themselves, and answers questions without jargon. Avoid anyone who says "I’ve done hundreds" without showing proof. Read reviews that mention communication, not just how nice the kitchen looks. The best kitchen fitters don’t just install—they advise. They’ll tell you if your new sink won’t fit under the window, or if your chosen worktop is too heavy for the base cabinets.

And don’t assume your builder or decorator can handle it. A kitchen isn’t like hanging a shelf. It’s a system—plumbing, electricity, ventilation, storage, and safety all have to work together. A bad fit can lead to leaks, mold, or even gas leaks. That’s why you need someone who treats your kitchen like a machine, not just furniture.

Below, you’ll find real breakdowns of what kitchen fitters charge in 2025, how to spot a scam, what warranties actually cover, and how to compare quotes from top UK brands like Wren. Whether you’re replacing a 10-year-old kitchen or doing a full renovation, these guides give you the facts—no fluff, no upsells, just what you need to know before you sign anything.