How long does it take to replace a kitchen?
Replacing a kitchen usually takes 7–14 days for most UK homes. This Support Stone Guide breaks down each stage — from removing your old units to final handover — so you know exactly what to expect, how long each trade takes, and where delays commonly happen.
We cover the full process for a complete kitchen replacement in your existing layout (Scenario 1, Layout A). No extensions, no wall removals — just a full modernisation, properly sequenced and finished to UK Building Regulations standards.
- Full timeline: Day-by-day breakdown
- Trade sequence: who arrives when, and why
- Building Regulations notes: Part P electrics, ventilation, fire safety
- Common delays: how to avoid hidden slowdowns
If you're planning a new kitchen, this guide gives you a realistic, stress-free overview before work begins.
Planning a full kitchen replacement?
We can review your layout changes, electrical upgrades and Building Regulations requirements before you start.
How long does it take to replace a kitchen in the UK?
For most UK homes, a full kitchen replacement — removing the old kitchen and installing a new one in the same layout — takes between 7 and 14 days. This timescale assumes standard works: new cabinets, worktops, sink, tap, appliance installation, plumbing adjustments, electrics, flooring and redecorating.
Every project is slightly different, but the timeline below reflects the most common sequence used by UK kitchen fitters and Building Control when works must comply with Part P electrics, ventilation rules and safe appliance installation.
Full Kitchen Replacement Timeline (Realistic UK Breakdown)
Here’s a clear overview of how long each stage usually takes when replacing a full kitchen.
| Stage | Typical Duration | What Happens |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | 1 day | Removal of old kitchen, disposal, initial inspection for damage or hidden issues. |
| Days 2–3 | 1–2 days | First fix electrics & plumbing (Part P electrics, new sockets, appliance feeds, adjusting waste & supply lines). |
| Days 4–6 | 2–3 days | Cabinet installation, levelling, securing wall units, fitting carcasses. |
| Day 7+ | 1–3 days | Worktop fitting, sink & tap installation, hob & oven install, extractor setup. |
| Day 10+ | 1–2 days | Flooring installation (vinyl, laminate, tiles), kickboards, trims, finishing. |
| Final days | 1 day | Painting, decorating, snagging, Building Control sign-off (where required). |
Not sure if your kitchen work needs Building Regulations approval?
We’ll review electrics, ventilation and structural considerations so you stay compliant.
What can speed up or delay a kitchen replacement?
Most delays come from items that aren’t visible during a showroom visit. Below are the key factors homeowners should know.
1. Worktops
Quartz and granite often require templating after cabinets are fitted. This can add 7–10 days if the supplier has a backlog. Laminate and solid wood worktops are faster because they’re cut on-site.
2. Electrical upgrades
If you’re adding more sockets, upgrading to induction, or replacing an old fuse box, your electrician may need additional time. Part P certification may also require testing before commissioning appliances.
3. Incorrect or missing items
4. Plastering or wall repairs
Some kitchens reveal damaged plaster once the old units come out. A full skim can add 1–2 days.
5. Flooring complications
Tiles take longer due to drying time. Laminate or vinyl can often be completed in a single day.
Building Regulations that apply to kitchen replacements
Even when you keep your layout the same, parts of the work must still meet Building Regulations, especially where electrics and ventilation are involved.
- Part P (electrical safety) — rewiring, new circuits, and appliance isolation points must be certified.
- Part B (fire safety) — safe placement of hobs, clearances, and extractor requirements.
- Part F (ventilation) — adequate extraction for cooking areas.
- Part L (energy) — insulation and energy-efficient lighting checks.
You can read more in our dedicated guides:
- Building Regulations: Complete Homeowner’s Guide
- Building Control: What It Is and When You Need It
- Structural Calculations: When Do You Need Them?
- Certificates & Compliance Documents
Quick Costs Snapshot
-
Typical Labour Cost£1,500–£3,500 depending on size and complexity.
-
Worktop Installation£300–£1,500 depending on laminate, quartz, or granite.
-
Electrical Works£300–£900 for Part P-certified updates.
-
Plumbing Adjustments£200–£500 depending on sink/tap changes.
FAQs: How long does it take to replace a kitchen?
Does replacing a kitchen require Building Regulations approval?
How long does it take to fit kitchen cabinets?
How long do worktops take to install?
How long should a new kitchen last?
Next steps & useful guides
If you're replacing your kitchen, these PME guides may help:
- Kitchen Fitting Costs Explained
- Building Control Inspections – What to Expect
- Building Regulations Approval Explained
- Plans for Building Regulations
Ready to plan your kitchen replacement?
Our team can advise on Building Regulations, electrical requirements and compliant layouts.
For further official guidance, visit the Planning Portal or GOV.UK Planning Permissions.
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