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Kitchen Renovation Costs UK 2025: Complete Budget Guide
Kitchen renovations are the UK’s most popular home improvement project and one of the most expensive. Whether you’re planning a simple refresh or a complete gut renovation, understanding the true cost is crucial for budgeting and avoiding costly surprises.
The challenge? Kitchen renovation quotes can vary wildly. One contractor might quote £8,000 while another says £25,000 for the same project. This guide breaks down actual kitchen renovation costs by scope, quality level, and region giving you real numbers to plan your budget.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn:
- Average kitchen renovation costs by size and quality level
- Detailed cost breakdown by component (cabinets, worktops, appliances, labor)
- Regional price variations across the UK
- Hidden costs most homeowners forget to budget for
- How to save money without compromising quality
Kitchen Renovation Cost Overview
Kitchen renovation costs in the UK typically range from £5,000 for a small budget refresh to £50,000+ for a large premium renovation. The final cost depends on five key factors:
What Affects Kitchen Renovation Costs?
1. Kitchen Size
Small kitchens (under 8m²) cost significantly less than large open-plan kitchens (12m²+). More space means more cabinets, longer worktops, and more flooring all of which increase costs.
2. Quality Level
Budget kitchens use flat-pack cabinets and laminate worktops. Mid-range kitchens feature semi-custom units and quartz composites. Premium kitchens include bespoke cabinetry and natural stone worktops. Quality level is the single biggest cost driver.
3. Scope of Work
A cosmetic refresh (new doors, worktop, paint) costs far less than a full renovation (new everything) or a gut renovation (complete removal and rebuild with layout changes).
4. Layout Changes
Moving plumbing, gas connections, or electrical points dramatically increases costs. Keeping your existing layout saves £2,000-£5,000 in labor and materials.
5. Location
London and South East kitchen renovations cost 25-30% more than North England or Scotland due to higher labor rates and property values.
Average Kitchen Renovation Costs UK (2025)
Kitchen Renovation Cost Breakdown
Understanding where your money goes helps you make informed decisions and prioritize spending. Here’s a detailed breakdown of kitchen renovation costs by component.
Cabinets & Units (35-40% of Budget)
Kitchen cabinets are the largest single expense in most renovations. Quality and customization level drive the cost significantly.
Flat-Pack Cabinets (IKEA, B&Q): £2,000-£5,000
DIY-friendly budget option with decent quality. IKEA offers good value but requires self-assembly and installation. Average small-to-medium kitchen: £3,000-£4,000 for units only.
Mid-Range Fitted (Howdens, Wickes): £5,000-£12,000
Semi-custom units fitted by professionals. Better quality materials and finishes than flat-pack. Includes soft-close hinges and quality hardware. Most popular choice for UK homeowners.
Premium (Custom makers): £12,000-£30,000+
Fully custom cabinetry in solid wood with bespoke finishes. Perfect fit for awkward spaces. Hand-painted options available. Soft-close drawers throughout. Highest quality materials and craftsmanship.
Key factors affecting cabinet costs: Material (MDF vs plywood vs solid wood), finish quality (vinyl vs painted vs natural wood), hardware quality (soft-close mechanisms, internal organization systems), and customization level.
Here's what you can expect to pay for a complete kitchen renovation in 2025:
Here’s what you can expect to pay for a complete kitchen renovation in 2025:
| Kitchen Size | Budget | Mid-Range |
|---|---|---|
| Small (< 8m²) | £5,000-£8,000 | £8,000-£15,000 |
| Medium (8-12m²) | £8,000-£12,000 | £12,000-£20,000 |
| Large (12m²+) | £12,000-£18,000 | £18,000-£30,000 |
Premium renovations (bespoke cabinetry, natural stone, integrated appliances) can cost £15,000-£25,000 for small kitchens and £30,000-£50,000+ for large kitchens.
Worktops (10-15% of Budget)
Worktop material dramatically affects both cost and kitchen aesthetic. Prices below are for an average 3-4 meter run including installation.
Laminate: £200-£600
Most affordable option. Wide color range. Prone to scratching and heat damage. Suitable for budget kitchens.
Solid Wood: £600-£1,500
Warm, natural aesthetic. Requires regular oiling/sealing. Can be sanded and refinished. Not suitable near sinks without proper sealing.
Quartz Composite: £1,500-£3,000
Most popular mid-range choice. Durable, heat-resistant, low maintenance. Wide color range. Non-porous (hygienic). Best value for quality.
Granite/Marble: £2,000-£5,000+
Premium natural stone. Unique patterns. Requires sealing. Heat-resistant. Marble is softer and more prone to staining. Granite is more durable. Installation costs higher due to weight.
Appliances (15-20% of Budget)
Appliance costs vary dramatically based on brand, features, and integration level. Package includes oven, hob, extractor, fridge, and dishwasher.
Budget Package: £1,500-£3,000
Freestanding appliances from Beko, Indesit, or Hotpoint. Basic features. Energy-efficient ratings (A-B). Functional and reliable for everyday use.
Mid-Range: £3,000-£6,000
Bosch, Siemens, or Neff appliances. Mix of freestanding and integrated. Better features (induction hobs, steam ovens). Longer warranties. Quieter operation.
Premium: £6,000-£15,000+
Miele, Gaggenau, or Sub-Zero. Fully integrated built-in appliances. Advanced features (smart controls, specialty cooking modes). Commercial-grade performance. Extended warranties (5-10 years).
Flooring (5-8% of Budget)
Kitchen flooring must be water-resistant and durable. Prices below are for materials plus installation for a typical 10m² kitchen.
- Vinyl: £400-£800 – Waterproof, affordable, easy to install. Wide design range including wood-effect and tile-effect options.
- Laminate: £600-£1,200 – Looks like wood but more affordable. Water-resistant (not waterproof). Suitable for kitchens with light use.
- Tile (Ceramic/Porcelain): £800-£2,000 – Durable, waterproof, timeless. Cold underfoot unless underfloor heating installed. Installation labor-intensive.
- Wood/Engineered: £1,200-£3,000+ – Premium aesthetic. Engineered wood better for kitchens than solid. Requires proper sealing. Adds property value.
Labor Costs (30-35% of Budget)
Labor is one of the largest costs in kitchen renovation. Multiple trades are typically required: kitchen fitters, electricians, plumbers, tilers, and decorators.
Day Rates by Trade:
- Kitchen Fitter: £150-£250/day
- Electrician: £200-£300/day
- Plumber: £200-£350/day
- Tiler: £150-£250/day
- Decorator: £120-£200/day
Typical timeline: A standard kitchen renovation takes 2-4 weeks. Week 1: Strip out and first fix (electrics, plumbing). Week 2: Install cabinets and worktops. Week 3-4: Install appliances, flooring, tiling, and finishing touches.
Other Essential Costs
Don’t forget these additional costs when budgeting:
- Sink & Taps: £200-£1,000 – Budget composite to premium undermount sinks with designer taps.
- Lighting: £300-£1,500 – Under-cabinet LED strips, pendant lights, recessed spotlights, dimmer switches.
- Splashback/Tiles: £400-£1,500 – Glass splashbacks, ceramic tiles, or natural stone. Includes materials and installation.
- Removal of Old Kitchen: £300-£800 – Stripping out existing units, disposal, skip hire.
- Building Work: £1,000-£5,000+ – If structural changes needed (removing walls, creating openings, reinforcing floors).
Kitchen Renovation Costs by Type
The scope of your kitchen renovation dramatically affects the total cost. Here are three common renovation types with typical price ranges.
Cosmetic Refresh (£3,000-£8,000)
What’s included:
- New cabinet doors and drawer fronts (keep existing carcasses)
- New worktop
- Paint walls and ceiling
- New flooring
- Keep existing layout and appliances
Timeline: 1-2 weeks
Best for: Working kitchens that need an aesthetic update but have good bones. Ideal for budget-conscious homeowners or property investors looking to refresh rental properties.
Standard Renovation (£8,000-£20,000)
What’s included:
- Complete new kitchen units
- New worktop
- New appliances
- New flooring
- Minor layout adjustments (moving one or two units)
Timeline: 2-3 weeks
Best for: Most homeowners. Provides a completely new kitchen with modern appliances while keeping structural costs down by maintaining the existing layout where possible.
Full Gut Renovation (£15,000-£50,000+)
What’s included:
- Complete removal of existing kitchen
- Major layout changes
- Move plumbing, gas connections, and electrical points
- Structural work (removing walls, creating openings)
- All new everything (units, worktops, appliances, flooring, ceiling, walls)
Timeline: 4-8 weeks
Best for: Major property renovations, extensions, or when the existing layout doesn’t work. Common in older properties being modernized or when creating open-plan living spaces.
Kitchen Renovation Costs by Region
Location significantly impacts kitchen renovation costs. Labor rates vary by up to 30% across the UK, with London and the South East commanding premium prices. Material costs are more consistent, but delivery charges can add £200-£500 to projects in remote areas.
| Region | Budget | Mid-Range | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| London | £10K-£15K | £15K-£25K | £25K-£50K+ |
| South East | £8K-£12K | £12K-£22K | £22K-£40K+ |
| Midlands | £7K-£10K | £10K-£18K | £18K-£32K+ |
| North | £6K-£9K | £9K-£16K | £16K-£28K+ |
| Scotland | £6.5K-£10K | £10K-£17K | £17K-£30K+ |
Why such variation?
- Labor rates: London tradespeople charge 30% more than North England due to higher living costs and demand.
- Material delivery: Remote areas incur delivery surcharges. Urban areas benefit from more suppliers and competition.
- Property values: Higher property values justify premium finishes, driving up average renovation costs in affluent areas.
Hidden Kitchen Renovation Costs
Most homeowners significantly underestimate their kitchen renovation budget by forgetting these common expenses. Add £2,400-£9,600 to your base quote to cover these hidden costs:
1. Temporary Kitchen Setup: £200-£500
You’ll need basic cooking equipment during renovation: microwave, kettle, portable induction hob, temporary counter space. Budget for paper plates and disposable cutlery too.
2. Eating Out Costs: £300-£800
With no functioning kitchen for 3-4 weeks, expect increased takeaway and restaurant expenses. A family of four can easily spend £200+/week on meals out.
3. Waste Removal: £200-£500
Skip hire for old kitchen removal, packaging waste, and construction debris. 6-8 yard skip for 2 weeks: £250-£400 depending on location.
4. Electrical Upgrades: £500-£2,000
Older properties often need electrical panel upgrades to support modern appliances (induction hobs, double ovens). New circuits for additional sockets and lighting. Part P certification required.
5. Plumbing Modifications: £500-£3,000
Moving sinks, installing filtered water taps, relocating boilers, updating pipework to current regulations. Costs escalate quickly if gas connections need moving.
6. Building Control Fees: £300-£600
Required if structural work, significant electrical work, or gas work is being done. Includes inspection visits and certificates.
7. Decoration: £400-£1,200
Painting walls, ceilings, and adjacent rooms affected by kitchen work. New skirting boards and architraves. Often overlooked in initial quotes.
8. Contingency for Unexpected Issues: 10-15% of Budget
Hidden structural problems, asbestos removal, unexpected plumbing/electrical issues, rotten joists under old flooring. Budget an extra £1,000-£3,000 for surprises.
Final Thoughts
Kitchen renovation costs in the UK typically range from £8,000 to £30,000 for most homeowners, with size, quality level, and location being the primary cost drivers. Understanding the breakdown 35-40% on cabinets, 30-35% on labor, 15-20% on appliances, and the remainder on worktops, flooring, and finishing touches helps you allocate your budget effectively.
The key to staying on budget is thorough planning: get three detailed quotes, add 10-15% contingency for unexpected issues, and resist the temptation to upgrade materials mid-project. Remember to factor in hidden costs like temporary kitchen setup, eating out expenses, and waste removal these can add £2,400-£9,600 to your total.
Ready to get started? Use Havnwright’s free Kitchen Renovation Calculator to get a personalized cost estimate based on your specific requirements, location, and quality preferences. Input your kitchen size, desired finishes, and postcode to receive an accurate budget range in minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a kitchen renovation cost UK?
UK kitchen renovations typically cost £8,000–£30,000 for most homeowners. Budget kitchens start at £5,000–£8,000 for small spaces, while premium renovations in large kitchens can exceed £50,000. Your final cost depends on kitchen size, quality level, scope of work, and location.
What is the average cost to renovate a small kitchen?
A small kitchen under 8m² costs around £5,000–£15,000 to renovate depending on quality level. Budget renovations with flat-pack cabinets and laminate worktops cost about £5,000–£8,000, while mid-range renovations with fitted units and quartz worktops cost roughly £8,000–£15,000.
How long does a kitchen renovation take?
Most kitchen renovations take 2–4 weeks. Week 1 usually covers strip out and first fix for electrics and plumbing. Week 2 is for installing cabinets and worktops. Weeks 3–4 are for appliances, flooring, tiling, and finishing. Full gut renovations with major structural changes can take 4–8 weeks.
Can I renovate a kitchen for £5,000?
Yes, but only for small kitchens with a cosmetic refresh. With a £5,000 budget you can replace cabinet doors, install a laminate worktop, paint walls, and replace flooring while keeping existing appliances and layout. A complete renovation with new units and appliances typically requires at least £8,000.
What is the most expensive part of a kitchen renovation?
Kitchen cabinets and units are usually the most expensive component, often accounting for 35–40% of the total budget, roughly £2,000–£30,000 depending on quality. Labor costs are the second largest expense at around 30–35% of the budget, followed by appliances at roughly 15–20%.
Should I use IKEA for kitchen renovation?
IKEA kitchens offer strong value for budget-conscious renovations. Quality is decent, designs are modern, and you can save around £3,000–£8,000 compared to many mid-range fitted kitchens. However, you will need DIY skills or a hired fitter, and warranty and customer service are more limited than with premium suppliers.
Do I need planning permission for kitchen renovation?
Most kitchen renovations do not require planning permission unless you are extending the property, making major structural changes that affect the building exterior, or you live in a listed building or conservation area. You will, however, need Building Regulations approval for significant electrical, plumbing, or structural work.
How much should I budget for appliances?
Budget around £1,500–£3,000 for a basic appliance package including oven, hob, extractor, fridge, and dishwasher from brands like Beko or Hotpoint. Mid-range packages from brands such as Bosch or Neff typically cost £3,000–£6,000. Premium integrated appliances from brands like Miele or Gaggenau can cost £6,000–£15,000 or more.
What's the ROI on kitchen renovation?
Kitchen renovations typically return around 50–80% of their cost when selling. For example, a £15,000 kitchen renovation might add about £7,500–£12,000 to property value. However, ROI varies by property type, location, and local market conditions. The main value is often in quality-of-life improvements and faster property sales rather than pure profit.
How do I avoid going over budget?
Get at least three detailed written quotes before starting and add a 10–15% contingency for unexpected issues. Avoid mid-project upgrades to materials and fixtures, keep the existing layout where possible to save on plumbing and electrical work, do simple tasks yourself such as demolition and painting, and shop sales and ex-display models for appliances and materials.
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