What Happens If a Kitchen Fitter Damages Something?

Your Rights

Under consumer law, if a tradesperson damages your property during the course of their work, they are responsible for repairing or replacing the damage. This applies whether the damage is to your property (walls, floors, existing fittings) or to items in their care (kitchen units, appliances).

What to Do If Damage Occurs

• Document the damage immediately with photographs
• Inform the kitchen fitter in writing (text or email creates a record)
• Give the fitter the opportunity to rectify the problem before engaging other parties
• If the fitter does not respond, contact their public liability insurer

Why Insurance Matters

A professional kitchen fitter should carry public liability insurance. This covers accidental damage to your property during their work. Always ask for proof of insurance before booking any tradesperson.

Steps to Take If Damage Occurs

1. Photograph the damage immediately, before anything is moved or cleaned
2. Notify the fitter in writing the same day
3. Ask for their proposed remedy and timescale in writing
4. If unresolved, request their public liability insurance details
5. Escalate to the insurer directly if the fitter does not respond within a reasonable time

What Counts as Reasonable Wear vs Damage?

Minor marks from moving heavy items — a small scuff on a skirting board, for example — are generally considered reasonable and are usually made good as part of finishing, whereas a cracked tile, a hole in plasterboard or a damaged appliance is clearly beyond normal wear and should be treated as a damage claim.

Should You Get Everything in Writing Before Work Starts?

Yes — a written quote that references insurance cover, and photographs of the existing condition of anything valuable nearby, gives you a clear baseline if a dispute over damage ever arises.