The average price for a fitted kitchen in the UK generally falls between £5,000 and £15,000 for a standard mid-range kitchen. However, the cost of a full kitchen replacement can range significantly, starting from around £3,000 for a very basic upgrade and soaring past £30,000 for a high-end, bespoke installation.
Figuring out the new kitchen installation cost can feel like solving a puzzle. Many things affect the final price tag. This guide helps you break down those costs clearly. We will look at what makes the price go up or down. This will help you plan your kitchen remodel budget guide effectively.
Factors Affecting Kitchen Fitting Price
The price you pay for a new kitchen is not fixed. Many things change the total. Knowing these helps you manage your money better. These are key factors affecting kitchen fitting price.
Size and Layout of Your Kitchen
Smaller rooms need fewer materials. Bigger rooms need more cabinets, worktops, and flooring. If your current layout is awkward, it might cost more to change. Moving plumbing or gas lines adds to the labor cost.
- Small Kitchen (Under 8 sq meters): Lower material and labor costs.
- Medium Kitchen (8–15 sq meters): Standard cost range.
- Large Kitchen (Over 15 sq meters): Significantly higher material costs.
Quality of Materials Chosen
This is perhaps the biggest cost driver. You can buy basic cabinets or very fancy ones. The material choice sets the tone for the whole budget.
Cabinetry Quality
Cabinets form the core of your kitchen. Their build quality matters a lot.
- Budget Options: Often use thinner particleboard. They might have simpler hinges. They are great for an affordable new kitchen options.
- Mid-Range: Better quality chipboard or plywood boxes. They usually have soft-close doors and drawers. This fits the typical spend.
- High-End: Solid wood frames or very high-density fiberboard. They offer bespoke sizes and features. This pushes towards the luxury new kitchen price tag.
Worktops
Worktops see the most wear. Their material choice hugely impacts the price.
- Laminate: The cheapest and easiest to fit. Great for keeping costs down.
- Solid Wood (Butcher Block): Mid-range price. Needs regular sealing and care.
- Engineered Stone (Quartz): More expensive. Very durable and low maintenance.
- Natural Stone (Granite/Marble): High cost. Each slab is unique. Installation requires specialist skills.
Appliances
Do you need new appliances? Are you keeping the old ones? A full suite of brand-new, high-efficiency appliances adds thousands to the bill. Integrated appliances (hidden behind panels) often cost more to install than freestanding ones.
Level of Customization Required
Standard, off-the-shelf kitchens cost less. If you need special-sized cabinets or unique storage solutions, the cost jumps up. Bespoke design requires more planning and specialized manufacturing time.
Kitchen Renovation Price Breakdown: Where Does the Money Go?
When you look at a kitchen renovation price breakdown, the total cost splits into several main areas. It is rarely just the cost of the cabinets. Knowing this helps you see where you can save money.
| Cost Category | Approximate Percentage of Total Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cabinetry & Fittings | 30% – 40% | Includes carcasses, doors, hinges, and handles. |
| Appliances | 15% – 25% | Depends heavily on appliance quality chosen. |
| Worktops | 10% – 15% | Varies widely based on material selection. |
| Installation Labor (Fitting) | 15% – 25% | Includes carpentry, plumbing, and minor electrical work. |
| Flooring & Tiling | 5% – 10% | Depends on material (vinyl vs. real wood/tile). |
| Preparation & Waste Removal | 2% – 5% | Taking out the old kitchen and preparing the space. |
| Contingency Buffer | 10% | Always keep this aside for unexpected issues. |
Preparation and Demolition Costs
Before the new kitchen goes in, the old one must come out. This involves disconnecting utilities safely. Waste disposal fees for old units and tiles are part of this. If walls need plastering or the floor needs leveling, these initial tasks add to the labor time.
Kitchen Design and Installation Fees
Many suppliers charge for design work. A good designer helps maximize space. These kitchen design and installation fees often cover site visits and 3D planning. The actual fitting process—the labor—is a major expense. Experienced fitters ensure everything is level and aligned perfectly. Poor fitting leads to long-term problems.
Cost Scenarios: How Much Does a New Kitchen Cost UK?
To give a clearer picture, let’s look at typical budget ranges for UK homeowners undertaking a new kitchen installation cost. These figures cover materials and professional fitting for an average 12-square-meter kitchen space.
Scenario 1: The Budget Kitchen (The Affordable New Kitchen Options)
This option focuses on value and simplicity. It often means using standard sizes and off-the-shelf units from large retailers.
- Cabinets: Budget laminate doors, basic hardware.
- Worktops: Standard laminate.
- Appliances: Entry-level, freestanding models.
- Labor: Standard fitting time, minimal structural changes.
- Estimated Total Cost: £4,000 – £7,000
This is achievable if you are willing to compromise on premium finishes and features. It might involve some DIY if labor costs are to be minimized further.
Scenario 2: The Mid-Range Kitchen (The Average Price for Fitted Kitchen)
This is where most people spend their money. It balances quality, looks, and cost.
- Cabinets: Good quality chipboard, soft-close fittings, semi-custom sizing maybe available.
- Worktops: Mid-grade quartz or solid wood.
- Appliances: Good brand names, some integrated appliances (like a slimline dishwasher).
- Labor: Professional installation, possibly minor re-plumbing.
- Estimated Total Cost: £9,000 – £16,000
This range allows for a stylish, durable kitchen that significantly improves property value.
Scenario 3: The High-End Kitchen (The Luxury New Kitchen Price Tag)
This scenario involves premium materials, custom design, and high-spec appliances.
- Cabinets: Fully bespoke sizing, solid wood construction, unique finishes (e.g., Farrow & Ball paint).
- Worktops: Thick natural stone or high-end composite materials.
- Appliances: Premium brands (e.g., Miele, Gaggenau), full integration, specialty items like wine coolers.
- Labor: Complex fitting, specialized tradespeople involved (e.g., stone templating/fitting).
- Estimated Total Cost: £18,000 – £35,000+
For very large spaces or architectural renovations, this cost of full kitchen replacement can easily exceed £50,000.
Deciphering Installation Labor Costs
Labor is crucial in the new kitchen installation cost. Getting multiple quotes for fitting is essential. Labor rates vary greatly by region in the UK. City centers usually command higher hourly rates than rural areas.
What the Fitter Does
A good fitter handles much more than just screwing cabinets together. Their work usually includes:
- Careful removal and disposal of the old kitchen.
- Making sure walls and floors are level for a perfect fit.
- Assembling and fixing wall and base units securely.
- Cutting and fitting worktops accurately, including sink and hob cutouts.
- Installing sinks, taps, and connecting waste pipes.
- Minor adjustments to lighting or sockets (though major electrical work needs a certified electrician).
If you need significant structural work—like knocking down a wall or rerouting major drainage—this falls under building work, not standard fitting, and costs much more.
Appliance Costs: A Deep Dive
Appliances can eat up a big chunk of your kitchen renovation price breakdown. You have decisions to make about integration versus freestanding units.
Integrated vs. Freestanding
- Integrated: Looks seamless. The unit is hidden behind a matching cabinet door. These units are often slightly smaller or more expensive to buy initially.
- Freestanding: Cheaper to buy and easier to replace later. They are visible in the kitchen space.
| Appliance Type | Budget Estimate (Mid-Range) | Luxury Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Oven (Single/Double) | £400 – £700 | £1,500 – £3,000+ |
| Induction Hob | £300 – £500 | £800 – £1,800 |
| Integrated Fridge/Freezer | £500 – £800 | £1,200 – £2,500 |
| Dishwasher (Integrated) | £350 – £550 | £800 – £1,500 |
| Extractor Fan/Hood | £150 – £300 | £500 – £1,200 |
| Total Appliance Estimate | £1,700 – £2,850 | £4,800 – £10,000+ |
Remember that while you can save money by keeping appliances, if they are old, replacing them during a full renovation is often wise for energy efficiency and aesthetics.
Flooring and Tiling Expenses
The surface materials dramatically influence the final look and longevity of your kitchen. They also impact the factors affecting kitchen fitting price.
Flooring Choices
- Vinyl/LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tile): Highly popular. Good durability and often inexpensive. Easy for DIY fitting if the subfloor is perfect.
- Ceramic/Porcelain Tiles: Durable and waterproof. Professional tiling adds significant labor cost, especially for complex patterns.
- Engineered Wood: Warmer underfoot but less resistant to spills than tile or vinyl. Requires careful fitting around base units.
Wall Tiling
Tiling the splashback area (behind the hob and sink) is standard. The cost here depends on the tile choice (small mosaic tiles cost more in labor than large format tiles) and how much area you cover. Some opt for painted walls instead of tiling to save costs.
Managing Your Kitchen Remodel Budget Guide
A successful renovation hinges on careful financial planning. Use this section as part of your kitchen remodel budget guide checklist.
1. Set a Realistic Top Limit
Before looking at a single brochure, decide the absolute maximum you can spend. Be firm. If the quotes come in high, you must cut back on features, not quality you can’t change later (like the structure or plumbing).
2. Prioritize Spending
Decide what matters most to you. If you cook every day, invest in high-quality appliances and durable worktops. If you rarely use the kitchen for heavy cooking, you can spend more on the appearance (doors and lighting) and less on professional-grade appliances.
3. Shop Around for Quotes
Never take the first quote. Get detailed quotes from at least three sources:
- A major kitchen supplier (e.g., Howdens, B&Q, IKEA).
- An independent kitchen designer/fitter.
- A general builder who specializes in kitchen fitting.
Ensure all quotes clearly list what is included, especially regarding waste removal and minor electrical connections. Compare the like-for-like elements in the kitchen renovation price breakdown.
4. Be Prepared for the Contingency Fund
Unexpected costs are almost guaranteed in renovation work. Pipes hidden in walls might be old, or plasterwork might be worse than it looks. A 10% contingency fund (separate from your main budget) is essential for smooth sailing.
Achieving an Affordable New Kitchen Options
If your goal is a significant refresh without breaking the bank, focus your savings on materials and labor choices.
Cabinet Refresh Over Replacement
If your existing cabinet boxes are in good structural shape (solid carcasses), you can save thousands.
- Door Swapping: Replace only the doors and drawer fronts. This completely changes the look for a fraction of the price of a full cost of full kitchen replacement.
- Painting: Repainting existing doors (if they are solid wood or high-quality MDF) can be very effective.
Smart Appliance Choices
Look for sales, especially around bank holidays or major shopping events. Consider “ex-display” models from showrooms, which often come with a warranty at a reduced price. Choosing a freestanding washing machine instead of an integrated one saves on fitting complexity and unit cost.
DIY Where Possible (Sensibly)
Homeowners can save on labor costs by doing tasks that don’t require certification or specialized tools:
- Demolition and waste removal.
- Painting and decorating the walls after fitting.
- Installing shelves or wall units that are not load-bearing.
Warning: Do not attempt plumbing, gas work, or major electrical work yourself unless you are qualified. Mistakes here are costly and dangerous.
The Luxury New Kitchen Price Tag: Where Premium Costs Go
When budgets stretch into the high-end bracket, homeowners are paying for precision, exclusivity, and premium performance.
Bespoke Design and Manufacturing
Luxury kitchens rarely use standard sizes. Every cabinet is made to fit the exact dimensions of the room. This bespoke manufacturing is labor-intensive and requires specialized machinery. The kitchen design and installation fees for these projects are higher because they involve more consultation time and detailed site surveys.
Superior Hardware and Finishes
High-end kitchens feature hardware that lasts decades. This includes heavy-duty drawer runners, specialized internal storage solutions (like magic corners or pull-out larders), and premium hinges. The finish on the doors—be it lacquer, real wood veneer, or high-gloss acrylic—also carries a high material cost.
Advanced Technology Integration
The luxury new kitchen price tag often includes integrated technology. Think about induction hobs with downdraft extraction, steam ovens, built-in coffee machines, or smart lighting systems managed via an app. Installing these requires more complex wiring and coordination among different contractors.
The Role of the Kitchen Fitter and Designer Fees
You are paying for expertise when you hire professionals. A good team ensures longevity and safety.
The Importance of Detailed Quotes
When comparing quotes for how much does a new kitchen cost UK, ensure clarity on the labor split.
- Does the fitter coordinate other trades (plumber, electrician)? If so, they add a small management fee.
- Are all first-fix electrics (moving sockets, adding lighting points) included, or is that a separate electrician’s cost?
Design fees generally cover the conceptual stage. They result in workable plans. If you use a kitchen design service separate from the fitting company, this cost is upfront, regardless of whether you buy the units from them. If the fitter provides the design, this fee is often rolled into the overall installation cost, making the initial quote look lower than it really is. Always ask for the “all-in” price for design, supply, and fit.
FAQs on Kitchen Pricing
What is the shortest time frame for a standard kitchen installation?
For a straightforward mid-range kitchen replacement with no major structural changes, the fitting itself usually takes 1 to 2 weeks. However, planning, ordering units (which can take 6–12 weeks), and finalizing designs mean the total project often spans 2 to 4 months from start to finish.
Can I save money by ordering cabinets and worktops separately?
Yes, you often can. Suppliers who specialize only in cabinets might offer better pricing than a full-service showroom. However, you then take on the risk of ensuring the measurements match perfectly when coordinating the new kitchen installation cost with different contractors. You must be responsible for measuring accurately.
Does VAT get added to the final cost?
In the UK, if you are replacing a kitchen in a residential property that has been lived in for more than two years, you are usually eligible for a reduced rate of VAT (currently 5%) on the labor costs for installation and any related building work, provided the materials supplied by the installer do not exceed 60% of the total project cost. Always verify the current VAT rules with your installer.
What is typically NOT included in the average price for a fitted kitchen?
Standard quotes often exclude major structural building work (like moving load-bearing walls), full room redecoration (painting walls and ceilings after tiling), new radiators, or purchasing the actual appliances (unless explicitly detailed). Always check the fine print on your kitchen remodel budget guide document.