Kitchen fitters hourly rate: what is the average in Kent?
Hiring a kitchen fitter is an important step in ensuring that your kitchen renovation runs smoothly and meets your expectations. One of the most common questions customers have is about the cost of hiring a professional fitter.
For kitchen units and a full kitchen installation, typical cost will depend on the complexity of the layout and design.
A very general overview is that you can expect your labour cost alone to be between £1,000 and £3,000 for a standard kitchen, with costs increasing for larger or custom kitchens. But, of course, these costs can vary significantly.
In this blog, we'll break down the average hourly rates for kitchen fitters in Kent and explore the factors that can influence the final cost.
Understanding kitchen fitter rates
When it comes to hiring kitchen fitters, their hourly rates can vary depending on several factors. On average, kitchen fitters in Kent charge between £30 and £50 per hour. This range is typical for basic kitchen installations, but more complex projects, such as custom designs or extensive renovations, may incur higher rates.
The overall kitchen installation cost also depends on whether you choose an independent kitchen fitter or a larger company, as independent fitters may offer lower labour costs. For a complete kitchen installation, including units, kitchen worktops, and appliances, expect to pay between £1,500 and £5,000 in labour costs alone, depending on the project’s scope and detail.
Key factors affecting the hourly rate include:
Experience and qualifications: Highly skilled or specialised fitters may charge more due to their expertise.
Location: Rates in more rural areas may be lower compared to those closer to major towns or cities.
Scope of the job: The complexity and duration of the project can also impact the hourly rate. For example how many units you might need, whether you are having integrated appliances, and if you are planning to re tile walls.
At Pro Kent Kitchen Fitters, we offer competitive rates while ensuring quality craftsmanship for every project. Our experienced team can provide you with a precise quote based on your specific needs.
Additional costs to consider
While the hourly rate is a key factor, it’s important to keep in mind that other costs may be involved when hiring a kitchen fitter. These can include materials, the removal of the old kitchen, installation of brand new kitchen cabinets, and any updates to kitchen flooring.
If you plan to keep existing appliances, additional adjustments may be required to ensure they fit seamlessly with the new layout. Retiling walls is another common update that can add style and functionality but will also increase costs.
Additional services, such as plumbing, electrical work, and disposal of old fittings, further contribute to the overall kitchen fitting cost. Factoring in these elements will help you get a clearer picture of the total project cost.
Common additional costs include:
Material costs: Kitchen worktops, tiles, or new cabinets will increase the overall price. Discuss material preferences with your fitter to find budget-friendly options.
Disposal of old kitchen: Removing and disposing of your existing kitchen may cost extra, so it's worth checking if your fitter includes this in their quote.
Specialist services: If your renovation involves new plumbing or electrical work, you may need to hire specialists, which could add to the overall cost.
At Pro Kent Kitchen Fitters, we ensure that all additional costs are discussed upfront, providing you with a detailed and transparent estimate.
The benefits of hiring a professional kitchen fitter
While it might be tempting to try and cut costs by handling parts of the renovation yourself, hiring a professional kitchen fitter can save you time and money in the long run. A qualified fitter brings expertise and attention to detail that ensures your kitchen is installed to the highest standard, avoiding costly mistakes or delays.
Key benefits include:
Precise installation: A professional fitter ensures that cabinets, worktops, and appliances, such as your fridge freezer, are installed correctly, ensuring they last for years to come.
Time-saving: With experience and the right tools, a professional can complete the job much faster than a DIY approach.
Safety and regulations: A professional fitter will make sure that everything is installed safely and in line with UK building regulations, particularly when it comes to gas and electrical installations.
At Pro Kent Kitchen Fitters, we pride ourselves on providing a professional and efficient service, helping our clients achieve their dream kitchen without the stress.
How to find the right kitchen fitter?
When searching for the right kitchen fitter, it’s important to consider more than just the hourly rate. Look for a team that has experience, good reviews, and a reputation for quality work.
Asking for references or checking online reviews can give you a good sense of the fitter’s reliability and craftsmanship.
Things to look for:
Qualifications and certifications: Make sure your fitter is fully qualified and insured.
Portfolio: Ask to see examples of previous work to ensure their style matches your vision.
Customer reviews: Look for positive feedback from previous clients, focusing on punctuality, quality of work, and professionalism.
At Pro Kent Kitchen Fitters, our experienced team is happy to share examples of our work and reviews from satisfied clients. We are dedicated to providing top-quality kitchen installations at affordable rates.
How much does a full kitchen installation cost?
Aside from hourly rates, it’s helpful to understand the overall cost of fitting a kitchen renovation. The average kitchen fitting cost in Kent typically costs between £5,000 and £10,000, depending on the size of the kitchen and the materials chosen. Larger or more bespoke projects can cost upwards of £15,000.
Typical kitchen installation costs include:
Worktops
Laminate worktops can cost as little as £100 per metre, while granite or quartz options range from £200 to £500 per metre.
Cabinets
A set of standard cabinets may cost between £1,000 and £3,000, depending on the material and finish.
Kitchen units
Standard kitchen units start around £1,500, with prices increasing for custom sizes and premium finishes.
Appliances
Depending on your choice of appliances, prices can range from £500 to over £5,000.
For an accurate quote tailored to your specific needs, contact Pro Kent Kitchen Fitters for a free consultation. We’ll provide a breakdown of costs and help you make informed decisions to suit your budget.
Conclusion
The average hourly rate for kitchen fitters in Kent varies depending on factors such as experience, job complexity, and location. Beyond the basic hourly rate, additional costs can include kitchen removal, installation of new cabinets, flooring, and even retiling walls. For projects involving gas appliances, you’ll also need a qualified gas engineer, which adds to the overall kitchen fitting costs. To save money, consider simple updates that can refresh the space, or choose cost-effective materials to keep expenses manageable.
The total kitchen cost depends on these factors, but budgeting effectively for both labour and materials helps control expenses. Whether you're looking for a small update or a complete kitchen transformation, working with a professional team like Pro Kent Kitchen Fitters ensures a smooth, stress-free renovation process and a beautifully installed kitchen that meets your vision.
Ready to get started?
Contact Pro Kent Kitchen Fitters today for a free consultation and personalised quote. Let’s help you fit a kitchen that suits your style and budget without breaking the bank.
