An Installer’s Guide to Doing it Right: From the First Conversation to the Final Fit
A kitchen isn’t just a room, it’s the centre of the home. It’s where the day begins, where meals are made, and where conversations often linger long after dinner ends. That’s exactly why getting the installation right matters so much. We’ve worked in hundreds of kitchens across London, each with its own quirks, challenges, and ambitions, and the one thing I know for certain is this: no two projects are ever the same.
Still, there are some clear steps, costs, and timeframes you can count on. Whether you’re planning a total transformation or replacing dated units, this guide will walk you through the process from start to finish with clarity, realism, and a few things I’ve learned from years on the job.
The Process, Start to Finish
When we talk about installing a kitchen in London, we’re really talking about a carefully sequenced set of tasks. Done right, it runs smoothly. Done hastily, and you’re chasing delays and extra costs. Here’s what a typical project looks like:
- Initial Design & Planning
- Site Preparation
- Old Kitchen Removal
- Plumbing and Electrical Adjustments (First Fix)
- Floors and Walls
- Cabinet Fitting
- Worktops and Appliances
- Final Fix
- Walkthrough and Aftercare
Each phase builds on the last and timing matters as much as quality. It’s a collaborative process from the beginning.
Before Anything Else: Prepare Thoughtfully
I can’t overstate how important proper prep is. Measuring up your space, planning your budget, and understanding your priorities early on will save you hours, sometimes days, later down the line.
Accurate Measurements
In London homes, space is often tight, and every inch counts. Cabinet sizes, appliance gaps, corner angles, everything needs to be mapped out with care.
Budget Planning
You’ve probably already asked yourself, “How much does it cost to install a kitchen?” The short answer is: it depends. But I always encourage clients to build in a little buffer. Unseen plumbing issues, electrical upgrades, or a last-minute upgrade to quartz worktops, they all add up. More on specific costs shortly.
Logistics and Compliance
Don’t overlook the practical bits. Where will deliveries go? Do you need parking permits for skips? And has someone checked whether your fuse board can handle that new induction hob? We handle all of that, but it’s worth understanding what’s involved.
How Much to Install a Kitchen in London? A Closer Look at the Costs
Let’s get into the numbers. The cost to install a kitchen in London can vary a lot, and not just because of size or finish. Labour, structural needs, property access even the type of building all factor in.
Here’s a rough guide based on recent projects:
Type of Installation
- Standard kitchen install £4,500 – £7,500
- Mid-range with appliances £8,000 – £15,000
- Bespoke/premium installation £20,000+
Where does that money go?
Task or Feature:
- Cabinet fitting £1,000 – £2,500
- Worktops £600 – £2,000
- First fix (plumbing, electrics) £800 – £2,500
- Flooring & tiling £1,000 – £2,000
- Final decorating & touches £500 – £1,500
And if you’re only wondering how much to install kitchen cabinets, without any additional works? You could be looking at £1,000–£2,000 for labour, depending on the number and complexity.
Timelines: How Long Does It Take to Install a Kitchen?
The question of how long to install a kitchen comes up in nearly every first conversation. Understandably so no one wants to be without a working kitchen for weeks. On average, a standard installation (without major surprises) takes 7 to 10 working days.
Phase Typical Duration
- Remove old kitchen 1–2 days
- First fix (utilities) 2–3 days
- Flooring & prep 1–2 days
- Cabinet fitting 3–5 days
Worktops, appliances, final fix 2–3 days
If you’re moving utilities or waiting on bespoke worktops, expect an extra few days. For clients who ask, “How long to install kitchen units specifically?”—the fitting itself often takes 3–4 days, depending on the size and complexity.
Step-by-Step: How We Install Kitchens in Real Homes
- Survey and Design Review
Every project starts with a site visit. We confirm your design, check the space against plans, and flag anything that could affect timing or cost.
2. Protecting the Space
We treat every home with care. Dust sheets, floor protection, and clear walkways come first, especially in family homes or flats with shared access.
3. Rip-Out
Old cabinets and appliances are removed safely. We check for underlying issues water damage, dodgy wiring, blocked pipework, and resolve them before moving on.
4. First Fix Works
This is when we reroute pipes, add sockets, and get everything in place behind the scenes. It’s also when we fix the issues that no one could see earlier.
5. Floors and Walls
Some clients want new tiles or underfloor heating. Others just need plastering and fresh paint. We make sure the walls are smooth and the surfaces are ready.
6. Installing Kitchen Cabinets
Knowing how to install kitchen cabinets properly is more than just screwing boxes together. We use laser levels to align units perfectly, secure everything safely, and make sure all doors open cleanly.
7. Worktops and Appliance Fitting
We install and seal worktops (whether laminate, stone, or wood) and fit your oven, hob, dishwasher, and extraction. Safety checks come as standard.
8. Final Fix and Finishes
We connect taps, install backsplashes, adjust cupboard doors, and tidy every corner. The small details are what make the finished kitchen feel complete.
9. Handover and Aftercare
We walk you through your new kitchen and check everything together. You’ll have contact details for any post-install questions. We stay available, we don’t disappear after the final invoice.
Why It Pays to Hire Professionals
Some people ask how to install a kitchen themselves. And while the drive is admirable, London kitchens are rarely straightforward. Odd pipe placements, uneven floors, limited access—it’s easy to fall into costly mistakes.
Working with experienced fitters:
- Certified plumbing and electrical work
- Better coordination with suppliers and deliveries
- Safer installs (especially with gas or integrated electrics)
- Faster turnaround with less stress
If you’re searching for a kitchen install near me, choose someone who’s willing to explain the process, quote transparently, and show up on time. That’s the bare minimum. Ongoing care and a clean finish, that’s where real professionalism shows.
Installing a kitchen in London isn’t just a checklist of tasks. It’s a project that requires care, planning, and experience. It should feel exciting, not overwhelming.
If you’re considering a renovation and wondering how much to install a kitchen in London, or how long it will take in your home, speak to someone who’s walked the journey with others before. The right installer won’t just get the job done, they’ll help you enjoy the process too.