A kitchen fitter is a specialist tradesperson who installs kitchen units, worktops, appliances and associated services - taking responsibility for coordinating plumbing, electrical and gas connections as part of a complete kitchen installation. A skilled kitchen fitter combines carpentry with project management, working from a kitchen designer's plan or developing the layout with the client directly. For Building Regulations purposes, any new electrical circuits require a Part P registered electrician; gas hob connections require a Gas Safe registered engineer.
What they do
- Strip out existing kitchen and prepare walls, floor and services
- Set out and install base units, wall units and tall cabinets
- Template, cut and fit worktops including upstands and splashbacks
- Install sink and coordinate plumbing connections
- Connect gas hob (if Gas Safe registered) or coordinate gas engineer
- Install and connect integrated appliances - oven, dishwasher, fridge
- Fit cornice, pelmet, plinths and soft-close door mechanisms
- Coordinate extraction canopy and electrical connections
- Tile splashbacks and finish-decorate where required
- Carry out snagging and final handover
When you need one
A kitchen fitter is the right choice when you want a complete kitchen installation managed efficiently - from unit delivery to final appliance connection.
Typical costs (UK, 2025)
| Job type | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Kitchen fit (standard, labour only per week) | £1,500 - £2,500 |
| Full kitchen installation (labour, 2 weeks) | £2,500 - £5,000 |
| Supply and fit (mid-range) | £8,000 - £20,000 |
| Worktop templating and fitting | £400 - £900 |
| Appliance installation (per appliance) | £80 - £200 |
| Hourly rate | £35 - £65 / hr |
Costs vary by location and complexity. London and South East rates are typically 20-30% higher. Supply and fit costs depend heavily on the kitchen range chosen - always obtain quotes that separate unit cost from labour.
Qualifications to look for
The core joinery and fitting qualification. Level 3 is the fully competent tradesperson standard. Some kitchen fitters hold an NVQ in Fitted Interiors or Bench Joinery.
Mandatory for any gas appliance connection. Check at gassaferegister.co.uk - it takes 30 seconds and could save your life.
Required for any new electrical circuits. Many kitchen fitters hold Part P registration so they can self-certify new circuits without a separate Building Control notification.
Membership indicates commitment to professional standards, a written code of conduct and appropriate insurance. Find members at kbsa.org.uk.
How to find a reputable kitchen fitter
Frequently asked questions
Can a kitchen fitter connect a gas hob?
Only if they are Gas Safe registered. It is a criminal offence for an unregistered person to connect a gas appliance in the UK. Always check your fitter's Gas Safe registration at gassaferegister.co.uk before any gas connection work takes place.
Do I need planning permission for a new kitchen?
No, in almost all cases. You do not need planning permission to install a new kitchen unless you are extending the property, changing the position of windows or doors, or the property is a listed building. Building Regulations approval is needed for new electrical circuits (Part P) and for any new or extended gas pipework.
How long does a kitchen installation take?
A standard kitchen typically takes 1-2 weeks from delivery to completion, including tiling and decorating. Bespoke kitchens with complex cabinetry or extensive structural work may take 2-4 weeks. The lead time for the units themselves - often 6-12 weeks for bespoke - is usually the critical path.