Kitchens as part of a wider extension
A kitchen fitted as part of a house extension needs closer coordination between the builder and kitchen fitter on timing — services (electrics, plumbing, ventilation ducting) need to be roughed in during the build phase, before the kitchen fitter's own first-fix stage begins.
Gas hobs need a Gas Safe engineer
Installing or moving a gas hob is gas work, same as a boiler, and legally needs a Gas Safe registered engineer, not just a kitchen fitter or general plumber. If you're switching from electric to gas (or vice versa) as part of a refit, this needs coordinating separately from the general fitting work.
KBSA and TrustMark, what they actually mean
The KBSA (Kitchen Bathroom Bedroom Specialists Association) is the main UK trade body for the sector, though membership is limited to a few hundred companies nationally, so not every kitchen fitter will hold it. TrustMark is a broader government-endorsed scheme covering many trades — worth asking which, if either, your fitter holds rather than assuming either is standard.
Cabinet handles and hardware, a small but real cost
Handles, hinges and drawer runners are a small line item individually but add up across a full kitchen, and soft-close mechanisms cost more than standard hinges — worth clarifying what's included as standard in a quote versus what's an upgrade, since this varies between fitters.
Choosing a kitchen sink and tap
A single, larger bowl is often more practical than a traditional 1.5 bowl for modern dishwasher-owning households. A boiling water tap adds real convenience but needs a dedicated under-sink unit and its own electrical supply — worth deciding early if you want one, since it affects the plumbing and electrical first-fix.
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.
Common kitchen fitting jobs
Kitchen fitters handle everything from a single worktop or cupboard door replacement to a full gut-and-refit: removing old units, fitting new cabinetry, worktops, and coordinating the plumbing and electrical work a kitchen needs (sink, dishwasher, oven, extractor). Many fitters manage the whole job and bring in a plumber or electrician for specific parts.
Three steps to hiring the right kitchen fitter
First, ask to see photos of similar completed jobs. Second, clarify exactly who handles the electrical and plumbing work. Third, get a written quote that separates units, worktop, appliances and labour, so you can see where the money's actually going.