How to Choose a Kitchen Fitter (UK)
The right kitchen fitter makes the difference between a smooth install and an expensive headache. This 2026 guide compares independent fitters with showrooms, supply-and-fit with fit-only, and how fitters price, with the checks to run before you book. For reference, fitters charge a £150-£250 day rate or £70-£120 per unit, and fitting labour for a standard kitchen is £1,000-£3,000. Get it right and you protect both your budget and your new kitchen.
Choosing the Right Kitchen Fitter
Whether you use an independent fitter or a showroom, the same fundamentals apply: clear scope, the right trades, insurance and a fair payment plan. Here is how the options compare in 2026 and what to check before you commit.
Independent fitter vs showroom
An independent fitter is often cheaper and more flexible; a showroom bundles design, supply and fit for convenience at a premium.
Supply-and-fit vs fit-only
Supply-and-fit is one point of contact; fit-only lets you shop the units around but you carry the delivery and quality risk.
What a good fitter includes
Removing the old kitchen, fitting units and worktops, plumbing basics, and coordinating tiler, electrician and gas trades where needed.
Checks before you book
Insurance, references, recent photos, Gas Safe or NICEIC-registered subcontractors, a written quote and a payment schedule tied to stages.
How fitters price
By the day (£150-£250), per unit (£70-£120) or a fixed project price. A fixed price is easiest to compare if the scope is clear.
Red flags to avoid
Large upfront deposits, cash-only, no written quote, no insurance and vague timescales. A clear, itemised quote protects both sides.
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