How much will it cost?

Kitchen services have a vast range of prices. If you are going to buy a package, fitted kitchen these can usually range from £2000 to £10,000, although companies often offer sales and discounts at various points throughout the year. If you buy the kitchen parts separately this will cost you more in total, but will give you greater freedom of choice. Worktops prices depend on what type you choose; wood tops are around £20 - £30 per m2 whereas manmade fabrics are usually around £5-£7 per m2. The price of a cooker is completely depended on how large it is and what features it has, thus they can range from around £200 - £1500.

What qualifications should I look for?

There are no set qualifications that any of the sales people or fitters need to have, at present, and you should be guided by experience instead. Obviously the plumbers and electricians need to have the appropriate NVQ/SVQs and you should check with the company that they do. However, by 2010 the government is requiring that all workers within the construction industry must hold a Construction Skills Certificate Scheme (CSCS) card, or they must be registered with an associated scheme. To be eligible for the card the worker must possess a NVQ or a SVQ, or a satisfactory corresponding qualification, and have passed a health and safety assessment. Each card has a grade which is given according to the experience and qualifications of the worker. This will mean that you can check that the fitters, electricians and plumbers have the appropriate qualifications and also see what their level of experience is.

What should I ask my kitchen services company?

• How long will it take to supply the kitchen/can I have the kitchen fitted before…? (This is mainly appropriate if you are having an individual rather than pre-fitted kitchen).
• How long will it take to fit the kitchen?
• Will you perform all plumbing and electrical works that need to be done on the kitchen?
• Do you supply your own decorator for the cupboards and surfaces?
• What is included in the package of the kitchen and what will cost extra?