What to expect when you have a new kitchen installed

Before any work starts

Good kitchens start with the room, not the catalogue. Expect the space to be measured, the position of services such as water, gas and electrics to be noted, and a conversation about how you actually use the kitchen day to day.

From there a layout is drawn up, usually with visuals so you can see how it will look. Door style, colours, worktops and appliances are chosen at this stage. Many units and worktops are made or ordered specifically for your job, so it's worth asking about lead times early.

What affects the cost

Kitchen costs vary enormously from one home to the next, so any single average figure would be misleading. The main things that move the price are:

• The size and shape of the room, and the number of units needed
• The range and finish you choose, for example handleless, shaker or in-frame
• The worktop material
• Appliances, sinks and taps
• Whether walls, floors, electrics or plumbing need altering
• The condition of the existing room once the old kitchen comes out

How long it takes

Every kitchen is different. A straightforward like-for-like replacement is usually quicker than a full renovation that involves building work, and the time taken to order units is part of the overall schedule too. A good installer will give you a realistic timeline once they've seen the room, and tell you early if anything changes.

During the installation

The order of work is fairly consistent:

• The old kitchen is removed and the room prepared
• First-fix electrics and plumbing are done
• Units are fitted and levelled, then worktops
• Sinks, taps, appliances and lighting are connected
• Finishing touches such as handles, trims and sealing

Gas and electrics

Connecting or moving gas appliances must be done by a Gas Safe registered engineer, and some electrical work, such as adding a new circuit, must comply with Building Regulations and be certified. Ask any installer who will carry out this work and what paperwork you'll receive.