How to source a kitchen fitter?
Who shall I hire?
Who shall I hire is a question clients ask often and most people will look to friends and family for recommendations. One of the most important decisions you’ll make when undertaking a building project is in choosing the right people to work on it. Some companies will take on your whole project, with responsibility for the building work, the specialised joinery work of the kitchen fit and other carpentry works, and all electrical and plumbing considerations, too. If you’re not planning a lot of structural change, however, you might just need to employ an individual trade such as a kitchen fitter.
Be clear on your requirements
First, be clear on your requirements, this will allow you to get the most transparent information from tradesman when you begin contacting them. If you are contacting a carpenter for a kitchen fit, they will likely want to know if you require them to rip out and dispose of your existing kitchen, the rough size of the kitchen (by units) and if it is a dry fit. A dry fit is installing the units and appliances only versus other non-carpentry aspects of the fit such as electrical, plumbing, plastering and tiling.
Bear in mind that if you need some tiling or plastering to be done, this will probably cost you extra. Check with the fitters beforehand exactly what they’re agreeing to do, so you aren’t left with annoying snagging jobs when they’ve gone. Most kitchen fitter will offer a full service fit, or at least have a team of frequent tradesman that they use and can recommend to you for your electrical, plumbing, plastering, tiling and decorating needs.
Do your research
Searching on Google will likely be your first port of call, but can deliver vast results. Always be specific with your searches and include the area required and always check the companies reviews. You can also find kitchen fitters and carpenters on sites like CheckaTrade and Houzz. At Teak Interiors we also have solid relationships with retailers including John Lewis, Wren Kitchens and Magnets and will often be referred clients seeking fitters when designing and purchasing their kitchens with these retailers.
Certified & qualified
Always ensure your fitter is insured, has the necessary City & Guilds qualification and is registered with BiKBBI, the British Institute of Kitchen, Bedroom & Bathroom Installation.
As with your products, you should shop around and get at least three fitting or building quotes for comparison. There may be a few unexpected problems, but if you trust your tradesperson, you should be able to work out solutions together.
About us
Teak Interiors is a family-run kitchen and bathroom business based in Hurst, Berkshire, specialising in the renovation of home interiors. To discuss your project, contact us today!