Before booking a fitter, you need a realistic view of the kitchen installation process. Knowing how long it takes to fit a kitchen is key to managing stress and planning your life without a functioning cooker.
While every project is different, this week-by-week kitchen renovation timeline provides a typical schedule for a medium-sized kitchen refit that does not involve structural changes.
Pre-week 1: Planning and prep
- Task: Finalise design, order materials, and clear the existing kitchen.
- The golden rule: All items—units, appliances, flooring, tiles, taps—must be on site before the fitter starts work on Day 1. One missing item can halt the entire process. Set up a temporary kitchen area (microwave, mini-fridge) in another room.
Week 1: First fix and preparation (the dirty work)
| Days | Key Task | Terminology |
| Day 1 | Demolition and removal of old units, appliances, and flooring. | Strip-Out and Disposal |
| Days 2-3 | First fix electrics and plumbing. The electrician runs new cables for sockets/lights; plumber moves pipes for sink/dishwasher. No final connections are made yet. | First Fix Services |
| Days 4-5 | Plastering and making good the walls and ceiling. This must be done before units go in. Crucial drying time. | Plastering and Making Good |
Focus: This week is loud and messy. The walls must be fully dry before any cabinets are fixed to them, or damp/mould issues will arise later.
Week 2: The core fit and templating (the delay)
| Days | Key Task | Why it Causes Delay |
| Days 6-8 | Carcass and cabinet installation. Fitter assembles and secures all base and wall units. Integrated appliance carcasses are secured. | Precision Levelling |
| Day 9 | Worktop template. Templater visits to measure for custom solid worktops (quartz/granite). Crucially, fabrication takes 7–10 working days. | The Templating Gap |
| Day 10 | Appliances are dry-fitted and doors are hung. Fitter works on trim and preparing the space for the tiler/flooring expert. | Appliance Door Fitting |
The templating gap: You may have a few non-working days here while waiting for the worktops to be fabricated. Use this time to paint or decorate any areas that won’t be covered by units.
Week 3: Finishing and second fix services
| Days | Key Task | Terminology |
| Days 11-13 | Flooring and tiling. Tiler lays floor, wall tiles, or splashbacks. This must be completed before the heavy worktops arrive. | Second Fix Decor |
| Day 14 | Worktop installation. New worktops arrive and are installed. Sink and hob cut-outs are made, and units are sealed. | Worktop Fit |
| Day 15 | Second fix plumbing and electrics. Sink, tap, and hob are permanently connected and tested. | Final Connection |
Week 4: Handover
- Task: Fitter installs handles, kickboards, pelmets, and performs detailed silicone sealing. Electrician performs final certification.
- Result: A fully functional, clean, and certified kitchen, ready for your snagging list.
Why choose kitchen fitters with Rated People?
Following this strict kitchen renovation timeline requires coordinating multiple tradespeople: fitters, plumbers, electricians, and tilers. The success of your project depends entirely on the reliability and scheduling of these verified professionals.
- Vetted, multi-skilled fitters: We connect you with trusted fitters who have the experience and reviews to manage the entire installation, minimising the risk of delays during critical phases like the First Fix and Second Fix stages.
- Trust and transparency: You can view testimonials and ratings from homeowners whose projects were completed on time and within budget, allowing you to hire with confidence.
- Safety assurance: Ensure specialist work (electrics, gas) is done by professionals with the right certifications, protecting your home and long-term investment.
Understanding this kitchen renovation timeline allows you to better manage your budget and expectations – although it’s important to note, there are almost always things that can pop up and cause delays.
With Rated People, you have the power to get the job done. Find a trusted, local tradesperson today.
