What a good kitchen quote should include
A proper quote should specify unit and worktop brand/spec (not just "units, worktop"), whether appliances are supplied or just fitted, whether electrical and plumbing work is covered directly or subcontracted, and what happens if hidden issues are found once old units are removed.
Choosing a worktop material
Laminate is the budget-friendly option and has improved significantly in appearance. Wood/laminate needs more care around water exposure near sinks. Stone (granite, quartz) is durable and heat-resistant but costs considerably more and is usually templated and fitted by a specialist worktop company, not the kitchen fitter directly.
Kitchen lighting layers
A well-lit kitchen usually combines general ceiling lighting, task lighting (under-cabinet lights over worktops, where most food prep happens), and sometimes accent lighting — a single central ceiling light alone often leaves worktops in shadow. Worth planning lighting circuits before, not after, unit installation.
Knocking through for an open-plan kitchen
Removing a wall between a kitchen and adjoining room to create an open-plan space is a structural job, not just a kitchen fitting one — it needs a structural engineer's assessment and, if the wall is load-bearing, a supporting beam, plus building control sign-off. This is usually coordinated with, not done by, the kitchen fitter directly.
Kitchen plumbing and appliance connections
A new sink, dishwasher or washing machine needs its own isolation valve and a proper waste connection — moving the sink position, in particular, often means new pipework rather than just reconnecting to the old point. Check whether your fitter handles this directly or brings in a plumber.
What affects the cost
Cost depends on worktop material (laminate vs stone vs wood), whether the layout is changing (moving plumbing/electrics vs replacing in place), unit quality, and appliance integration. Moving a sink or hob position adds cost beyond the units themselves because of the pipework and electrical work involved.
How long does a kitchen refit take?
A worktop or door replacement is usually a day or two. A full kitchen refit including new units, worktop and appliance connections commonly takes 1-3 weeks — worth planning for reduced kitchen access during this time, particularly for cooking arrangements.
Red flags in a cheap kitchen quote
A quote well below others is worth questioning — check it specifies the same unit brand/range and worktop material as competing quotes, covers who handles electrical and plumbing work, and includes disposal of the old kitchen.