10 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Kitchen Fitter
A kitchen renovation is one of the most expensive home improvements. The fitter makes or breaks the result. These questions ensure your investment is in safe hands.
Our in-house team of qualified, insured kitchen fitters covers all of NW London.
Get a Quote1.How many kitchens do you fit per year — and can I see recent examples?
Volume and portfolio quality indicate experience. A fitter doing 2-3 kitchens a year versus 20+ tells you a lot about their pace, skills, and processes.
I fit around X kitchens a year. Here are photos of my last three — happy to share client contact details for references.
Cannot provide photos, or photos show poor alignment, uneven gaps, or rough finishes.
2.Are you first-fix capable — can you handle the plumbing and electrics, or will I need additional trades?
Some kitchen fitters only install units and worktops. Others can also handle first fix plumbing and electrics. Knowing this determines how many tradespeople you need to coordinate.
I handle all aspects including first fix plumbing. I am Gas Safe registered and work with a Part P electrician. I can quote for the full package.
Can only install units — you will need separate plumber and electrician to coordinate.
3.How do you handle the worktop templating and installation?
Worktops must be templated after units are installed. The fitter should manage the templating appointment with the supplier and ensure units are precisely level before templating.
I template when units are installed and units are perfectly level. I manage the appointment with the worktop supplier. Lead time is typically 5-10 working days.
Leaving worktop templating to you to arrange, or not explaining the sequence.
4.What is your approach to ensuring units are perfectly level and aligned?
Every unit must be plumb and level — a 2mm error at one end becomes a 10mm gap by the end of a run. This is the foundation of a quality kitchen installation.
I use a long spirit level and laser level throughout. Every unit is checked before the next one is fixed. I never rush this stage.
Dismissing the question or not having a clear methodology.
5.Will you be fitting personally, or will you send a team?
Many kitchen fitters quote the job then send a different (often less experienced) team to do the work. The quality can vary significantly.
I personally fit every kitchen I quote. I may have an assistant for heavy lifting but the skilled work is mine.
Vague about who will actually do the work, or admitting they manage multiple teams.
6.Do you include making good — filling, plastering, and decoration — in your quote?
Kitchen installation always involves some wall damage — removing old units, routing pipes, chasing cables. Confirm who is responsible for making good.
Basic making good is included. For full redecoration of walls and ceilings, that is quoted separately. I will point out what needs attention before I start.
No mention of making good, or expecting you to arrange all remediation.
7.How long will the installation take — and will you work every day until complete?
Kitchen renovations are highly disruptive. The longer the kitchen is out of action, the harder life gets. A good fitter gives you a firm timeline and sticks to it.
A kitchen of this size typically takes 5-8 days of installation. I will be on site every day until complete. The main break is waiting for worktops after templating.
Vague timeline, working on multiple jobs simultaneously, or unrealistically short estimate.
8.What happens if there is a problem with the kitchen units — damage or incorrect parts?
Damaged units and missing parts are common, especially with large orders. The fitter should manage this process and not stop work unnecessarily.
I document all damage on delivery and report to the supplier immediately. I plan the installation sequence around any outstanding items to avoid delays.
Expecting you to manage supplier issues, or stopping all work whenever something is missing.
9.Do you guarantee your installation work — separate from the kitchen manufacturer warranty?
The kitchen manufacturer warrants the units. The fitter should warrant the installation quality — doors hanging true, drawers running smoothly, joints tight.
My installation work is guaranteed for 12 months. Any settling, hinge adjustments, or door alignment issues I will come back and fix.
No installation guarantee, or claiming the manufacturer warranty covers installation quality.
10.Are you VAT registered — and is VAT included in your quote?
VAT-registered fitters charge 20% on labour and materials. Knowing this in advance means you can compare quotes fairly and budget accurately.
Yes/no I am VAT registered. All prices in my quote are [inclusive/exclusive] of VAT. The total cost to you is clearly stated.
Unclear about VAT status, or adding VAT to a quote after you have already compared it against others.
Skip the research — our team is ready
Every kitchen fitter at Hampstead On Demand is qualified, insured, and experienced with NW London properties. We do the due diligence so you do not have to.
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