Kitchen renovation costs in the UK can vary substantially. As a rough guide, a straightforward refresh may cost several thousand pounds, while a larger project involving new electrics, plumbing, structural changes and higher-specification fittings can cost tens of thousands. Every project differs, so obtain a free, no-obligation quote for accurate pricing. The most useful way to plan is to look at the scope of work first, then consider the size of the room, the specification and any complications in the property.
Typical kitchen renovation price ranges by project scope
As a rough guide, the figures below are typical UK ranges for common project types. They are not fixed prices: labour rates, the condition of the room, the number of units, chosen appliances and whether VAT is included can all affect the final cost. Every project differs, so obtain a free, no-obligation quote for accurate pricing. A small kitchen with an uncomplicated layout can cost less than a large kitchen using the same level of finish.
What different budgets may realistically include
- As a rough guide, around £5,000–£10,000 may cover a modest refresh, such as replacing cabinet doors or a limited number of units, fitting a basic worktop, redecorating, and carrying out minor plumbing or electrical adjustments. This budget is more likely to be suitable where the existing layout remains and appliances are retained.
- As a rough guide, around £10,000–£20,000 may cover a standard small-to-medium kitchen renovation with new cabinets, a laminate or entry-level composite worktop, a sink and tap, basic appliances, flooring or tiling, and fitting. Keeping services in their existing positions can help this budget go further.
- As a rough guide, around £20,000–£35,000 may cover a more comprehensive renovation with higher-specification cabinetry, upgraded worktops, integrated appliances, improved lighting, new flooring and more extensive tiling. Some layout changes may be possible where major structural work is not required.
- As a rough guide, £35,000 and above may apply to a larger or higher-specification kitchen, potentially including bespoke or premium units, stone worktops, premium appliances, extensive building work, an open-plan alteration or an extension. Structural work and professional design fees may be separate from the kitchen quotation.
How property size affects the kitchen renovation price
Property size matters mainly because it can affect the size of the kitchen, the number of cabinets and the amount of flooring, wall tiling and worktop required. A compact galley kitchen may need fewer units but can still be labour-intensive if access is difficult. A larger kitchen or open-plan space usually needs more materials, longer installation time and potentially additional lighting or heating. In a flat or terraced house, restricted access can also affect delivery and fitting arrangements.
- Small kitchen: retaining the layout and choosing standard-sized cabinets can make a mid-range renovation more manageable. Careful storage planning can be more valuable than adding expensive finishes.
- Medium kitchen: the number of wall and base units, appliance choices and worktop material can be key cost drivers. Moving a sink, cooker or dishwasher can add plumbing and electrical work.
- Large or open-plan kitchen: allow for more cabinetry, flooring and lighting, as well as potential structural advice, steelwork, ventilation or heating changes if walls are removed.
- Period property: uneven walls, outdated wiring, hidden pipework and previous alterations can create extra preparation work. A survey or site inspection can be useful before setting a firm budget.
The main items included in a kitchen renovation quote
A kitchen quotation should make clear whether it covers removal and disposal of the old kitchen, preparation of walls and floors, cabinets, handles, worktops, appliances, sink and tap, plumbing, electrical work, lighting, tiling, flooring, decorating and final waste removal. Cabinet installation may be priced separately from the supply of the units. Ask whether delivery, appliance connection, worktop templating, plastering and making good are included, as omissions can increase the final cost.
Where homeowners commonly overspend
Costs can increase when the layout changes, several appliances are upgraded at once, natural stone or premium composite worktops are selected, extensive lighting is added, or walls, floors, wiring or plumbing need remedial work. Consider allowing a contingency for unknowns, particularly in older homes. It is also sensible to choose the worktop and appliances early, because their dimensions can affect cabinet planning and installation.
Planning a realistic kitchen renovation budget
Start by separating the project into three parts: products, installation and building or remedial work. Decide which elements matter most, such as storage, durable worktops, energy-efficient appliances or improved lighting, then choose where a simpler specification is acceptable. Obtain an itemised quotation rather than comparing only the total. BMB Renovation provides kitchen fitting and renovation across Watford, Bushey, Rickmansworth, St Albans, Hemel Hempstead, Borehamwood, Harrow, Croxley Green, Luton and Bedford. Its plumbing, tiling, electrical and cabinet installation work is handled in-house. You can review the kitchen fitting service in Watford or see the wider range of renovation services before arranging a free, no-obligation quote.
Questions to ask before accepting a kitchen quote
- Does the price include VAT, delivery, removal of the old kitchen and disposal of waste?
- Which appliances, handles, sinks, taps, lighting and accessories are included, and what are their exact models or allowances?
- Will the contractor inspect the condition of the walls, floor, wiring and pipework before confirming the scope?
- Are plumbing, electrical work, tiling, flooring, plastering and decorating included or priced as separate items?
- What happens if an issue is found after the old units are removed, and how will any change to the price be agreed?