Plan and fit kitchen units

Materials

• Cabinets, doors, panels, plinths, fillers and hardware from the final schedule
• Manufacturer-approved rails, legs and wall fixings for the confirmed construction
• Worktop, joining hardware and compatible edge treatment
• Splashback and finishing materials from the approved design
• Appliances and sinks only after dimensions and service requirements are confirmed

Tools

• Tape measure, laser or long level, square and marking tools
• Cable, pipe and stud detector used as one part of service checks
• Drill-driver and fixings matched to the verified wall
• Suitable cutting tools with guards, support and extraction
• Clamps and manufacturer-specific cabinet assembly tools

Preparation

1. Measure the room in several places and record door, window, floor and wall variation.
2. Map existing water, waste, ventilation, gas and electrical points without assuming they can be moved.
3. Check every appliance's installation, clearance, ventilation and service specification.
4. Approve the cabinet schedule, opening direction, fillers, worktop joins and installation sequence before ordering.
5. Book appropriately qualified trades for every regulated or specialist connection.

Safety

• Do not alter gas, fixed electrical, structural or unknown plumbing systems as part of cabinet fitting.
• Large cabinets and worktops require safe lifting, support and a clear installation route.
• Verify every fixing path; kitchen walls commonly contain concealed services.
• Do not use an unsupported or unfamiliar cutting setup for panels or worktops.

Steps

1. Survey and define the scope

   Create an as-is measured plan, list what stays and identify every trade-dependent item.

   Safety checkpoint: Stop if the design assumes unverified structural changes or moved gas, electrical, water or waste services.

2. Approve the design

   Check cabinet dimensions, fillers, doors, appliance clearances, worktop joins and access against the real room.

3. Prepare the room

   Have authorised trades isolate or alter services, then repair and check walls and floors before cabinets arrive.

4. Assemble and set the reference

   Build cabinets to their instructions and establish a level datum based on the highest part of the floor.

5. Fit and align cabinets

   Install in the planned sequence, securing only to verified structure and checking level, plumb and door lines continuously.

6. Fit worktops and finishes

   Use the maker's supported cutting and joining method, then fit panels, plinths and handles.

7. Complete trade connections

   Have the appropriate professionals connect, test and certify regulated or specialist services before use.

Professional checkpoints

• Gas appliances, pipework and flues require an appropriately registered gas professional.
• New circuits, moved sockets, hard-wired appliances and other fixed electrical work require a qualified electrician.
• Structural changes require professional design and any local approvals before work starts.
• Complex water, waste and appliance connections should be completed and tested by a competent plumber or installer.
• Stone, solid-surface and unfamiliar worktops normally need templating or fabrication by a specialist.

Visual guidance

Level: recommended · Format: layout-diagram

A measured plan and elevation are essential for cabinet sequence, door clearance, worktop joints and appliance space.

Illustration brief (conceptual only): Create a dimensioned plan and wall elevations showing cabinets, fillers, doors, windows, appliances, worktop joins and existing service zones; label all unverified dimensions.

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