Do Howdens Fit Their Own Kitchens?

Why Howdens Doesn't Install

Howdens operates on a trade-only model. Their depots supply to professional kitchen fitters and builders who then manage the installation for their clients. This keeps their pricing competitive and their business focused on supply.

How to Find a Fitter for Your Howdens Kitchen

You can ask your Howdens depot for recommendations, or find an independent installer directly. Look for fitters with proven Howdens experience — the unit assembly method, fixing patterns and door adjustment systems are specific to Howdens and benefit from hands-on familiarity.

What to Check Before Booking a Fitter

• Ask whether they have fitted Howdens kitchens before
• Request a site survey before any quote is given
• Confirm the quote covers all cabinets, worktops, plinths and integrated appliances
• Check that the fixed price includes snagging at completion

Independent Installation Costs by Kitchen Size

Because Howdens is trade-only, your installation budget is entirely separate from the unit cost. As a guide, a small kitchen of 8–12 units takes around 3–4 days to fit and costs roughly £1,800–£2,800 in labour; a medium kitchen of 13–20 units takes 4–6 days at around £2,800–£4,200; a large kitchen of 21+ units takes 6–10 days at around £4,200–£7,500. A day rate for an experienced fitter typically runs to around £350.

Questions to Ask Before Booking a Howdens Fitter

Beyond Howdens-specific experience, ask how many similar-sized Howdens kitchens they have completed in the last year, whether they carry public liability insurance, and whether the quoted price is fixed or subject to change once work starts. A fitter who cannot answer these clearly is a risk regardless of how competitive their quote looks.

What If the Depot Can't Recommend Anyone?

Not every Howdens depot maintains an active fitter list, and recommendations can be patchy outside major towns. If your local depot has nothing to offer, search for independent kitchen fitters directly and ask each one for photographs of completed Howdens installations before booking a survey.