How long does a full kitchen refit take?
A straightforward like-for-like kitchen replacement where the layout stays the same takes about ten to fourteen working days. That covers strip-out, plastering, first fix electrics and plumbing, fitting the units, worktop templating and installation, tiling, and second fix. If you are moving the sink, relocating a gas hob, or knocking through to a dining room, add another week or more.
Our kitchen renovation cost guide covers what each phase typically costs.
Common causes of delays
The biggest delays come from worktop lead times and appliance deliveries, not the fitting itself. Quartz and granite worktops need templating after the units are in, and fabrication takes seven to ten working days. Order appliances at least four weeks before the start date. If everything arrives on time, a mid-range kitchen refit in a typical three-bed semi takes three to four weeks from strip-out to final clean.
When structural work is involved
If structural work is involved, such as removing a load-bearing wall to create an open-plan kitchen-diner, the timeline extends to five or six weeks. You need a structural engineer's calculations, a steel beam installed and signed off, then the kitchen fit itself. Clients who plan the layout and choose all materials before the start date typically shave at least a week off the overall programme. Indecision mid-project is the single biggest cause of overruns.
What this means for a quote
A kitchen refit quote should include an estimated programme with start and completion dates, along with clear notes on what could affect the timeline (worktop lead times, structural sign-off, appliance delivery). If you use TailoredQuote, you can generate an itemised scope of works that separates each phase of the project so customers can see exactly what is happening and when.
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