Short answer: Yes. B&Q sells GoodHome kitchens and offers an optional fitting service managed by its own fitters. You can also choose DIY or hire an independent fitter.
The ranges are flatpack: Caraway and Caraway Innovo (handleless). That means assembly is required, which affects labour time and total cost compared with pre-assembled units.
Free design appointments are available online or in-store. A £50 measure service is refundable if you go ahead. BCIS guidance suggests labour sits at about 20–30% of your total spend.
Examples help set expectations. In May 2025 a 12‑unit B&Q design was quoted at £4,154–£4,799 for units, handles and trims (excludes worktop, sink, taps and appliances). Cabinets carry a 25‑year guarantee; appliances and sinks are excluded.
Practical tip: Compare quotes, check who the company uses on-site, and confirm what the fitter will and will not do before booking.
Key Takeaways
- B&Q offers an optional, company‑managed fitting service plus DIY or third‑party options.
- GoodHome Caraway ranges are flatpack, so allow extra assembly time.
- Expect installation labour to be roughly 20–30% of your overall budget.
- Cabinets have a 25‑year guarantee; appliances, sinks and taps have separate warranties.
- Book a free design appointment and use the refundable £50 measure to avoid surprises.
At a glance: B&Q kitchens and installation services in the UK
Quick snapshot: GoodHome’s Caraway and Caraway Innovo are supplied flatpack, with Innovo offering a sleek, handleless look. Both ranges suit DIYers or those who prefer a company‑managed fitting service.
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Booking a free design appointment is simple via the B&Q website. A refundable £50 home measure gives accurate dimensions for your area and helps avoid costly surprises.
Typical routes for fitting are: assemble yourself, choose B&Q’s managed fitter, or hire an independent installer. In May 2025 a 12‑unit mid‑range design quoted between £4,154 and £4,799 (excludes worktops, sink, taps and appliances), which helps set realistic customer expectations.
- Snapshot: two GoodHome ranges, both flatpack; Innovo is handleless, Caraway has multiple door styles.
- Who manages what: the company can coordinate fitters and schedules; independents may offer price flexibility.
- Plan ahead: flatpack cabinetry means extra assembly time; Innovo uses taller units for the integrated grip.
- Checklist tip: click expand points in your plan for electrics, plumbing and ventilation to prevent late changes.
Do B and Q install kitchens
You have three clear routes when fitting a new kitchen: tackle it yourself, book B&Q’s paid fitting service, or hire an independent installer in your area.
Yes—how the optional B&Q fitting service works
B&Q’s managed option is optional and handled by the company’s own fitters at extra cost. Expect a project plan that covers delivery, flatpack assembly and co‑ordination of trades for plumbing, gas and electrical work.
Practical note: the service gives one point of contact for scheduling, which helps keep timelines tidy.
DIY and independent fitters: your alternative routes
DIY suits confident homeowners with tools and local knowledge. Otherwise, appoint a trusted independent fitter or installer for more flexible pricing and bespoke timing.
“Always get at least three quotes and ask for a fixed‑price contract where possible.”
- Expect a plan for delivery, assembly and trade coordination to smooth kitchen fitting.
- Flatpack assembly adds time—factor this into labour estimates to avoid rush work.
- Check who supplies gas‑safe and electrical specialists: the company, your fitter, or you.
- Clarify access, parking and waste removal before day one to reduce delays.
- When ready to finalise scope, click expand your spec only once to avoid scope creep.
What’s included with B&Q’s kitchen fitting service
A clear list of what the fitting team will supply helps avoid surprise fees on fitting day.
Typical scope: units, worktops, sink and tap, and finishing details
Typical inclusions cover assembling and fixing base and wall units, scribing and fitting decor panels and plinths, cutting and securing worktops, and installing a sink and tap where specified.
Finishing touches usually include pelmets, cornices and end panels so the design looks complete and aligned. The May 2025 12‑unit product price noted handles, cornices, plinths, pelmets and end panels as product supply only.
What may cost extra: repositioning services, appliances and flooring
Likely extras include appliance installation, gas and electrical hook‑ups, flooring, plastering, tiling and any building work—agree these in writing before the visit.
Repositioning for plumbing, electrics or moving appliances can add to costs; a forum example showed a separate charge to move a freestanding fridge.
- Check whether waste removal and disposal of old units is included to avoid issues on the day.
- Confirm if worktops need templating (stone) and whether return visits are part of the installation price.
- Ask for a line‑by‑line breakdown so you can click expand or reduce scope without losing track of costs.
How much does it cost to install a B&Q kitchen in 2025
When estimating outlay, use a 20–30% labour rule of thumb to gauge likely fitting charges before you get quotes.
National guidance: labour as 20–30% of total kitchen spend
BCIS guidance sets labour at roughly 20–30% of your total spend. Use this to reverse‑engineer likely costs from your planned budget.
Real-world example: forum feedback on small-kitchen fitting costs
A forum customer with a 2.4m x 1.4m space paid about £1,500 for units and appliances.
They were quoted £2,700 for fitting plus £77 to move a fridge and chose a local handyman instead.
Smart buying: fixed-price contracts and multiple quotes
Which? recommends three quotes and a fixed-price contract to limit surprises.
- Use the 20–30% rule to estimate installation when setting a budget.
- Compare managed B&Q installation with independents on scope, not just price.
- Ask for separate lines for assembly, plumbing, electrics and finishing so you can click expand or trim items.
- Keep contingency for remedial work and factor diary availability into your plan.
| Item | Example value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Units & appliances | £1,500 | Product cost only |
| Fitting quote | £2,700 | Company quote from forum case |
| Minor relocation | £77 | Fridge move example |
| Labour rule | 20–30% | Use to estimate overall costs |
B&Q kitchen quality: lab tests, customer scores and longevity
Which? tested GoodHome Caraway and Caraway Innovo in a 19‑point lab programme that checked unit strength, shelf loading, drawer runners and hinge life. That independent work shows how the two different ranges perform under repeated use.
Independent testing of GoodHome Caraway and Caraway Innovo
Lab checks focused on durability of doors, drawer action and overall cabinet build. Results across brands ranged from 59% to 82% overall, with the top nine scoring 75% or higher.
One B&Q range scored six points above the other in combined lab and survey data, a useful signal when you compare finishes and hardware.
Owner‑reported satisfaction, wear and common issues
Surveys of owners who bought between 2015–2021 show roughly 44% reported some wear after five or more years.
- Most frequent faults: scratched cabinet finishes (15%) and soft‑close failures (12%).
- The most reliable brand in the sample still had 34% reporting some damage after 5+ years.
Practical read: balance looks with robustness by choosing harder‑wear finishes in busy zones and stronger runners where drawers work hardest.
“Click expand your shortlist by weighing aesthetics against tested build quality and hardware performance.”
Tip: factor warranty and spare‑part availability into decisions—mainstream brands often make future repairs simpler for owners over the years.
Flatpack realities: fitting B&Q’s GoodHome kitchens
Expect more assembly work with flatpack ranges, which changes how fitters plan their day. That shift affects schedules, labour hours and the final price tag.
Time, complexity and the impact on day-rates
Flatpack cabinetry adds assembly before units go on the wall. Day-rate fitters may charge more to cover extra hours and the risk of on-site adjustments.
Ready-made cabinets cut on-site time but cost more upfront. Ask your company or independent to list both options so you can compare true value.
When DIY pre-assembly can save money—and when it can backfire
Pre-assembly can reduce fitter hours if you are methodical and follow instructions. Label parts and check hinges and runners before delivery.
Poor assembly leads to delays and added costs when fitters must unpick mistakes. If you lack confidence, prioritise key units first to keep the home usable.
- Click expand your plan to include pre-delivery checks: counts, hinges and runners.
- Label assemblies to speed install and avoid misaligned doors.
- Click expand trade pricing: ask how on-site time is calculated for a clear quote.
| Option | Typical effect on time | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Flatpack (company supply) | Higher on-site hours | More assembly before fixing |
| Ready-made | Lower on-site hours | Higher product cost |
| DIY pre-assembly | Reduces fitter hours if done well | Poor work can cause extra fixes |
“Get line-item times for assembly and fitting so you know what each hour covers.”
Design before fitting: B&Q’s kitchen designer and measure service
Engaging a designer first helps match layout choices to real-world constraints. B&Q offers free design appointments online or in-store, and a refundable £50 measure that becomes credit if you proceed.
Why use the design service? In a recent survey, 202 customers used the design tool and gave feedback on planning quality. A session with a kitchen designer on the website helps lock down layout, storage and appliance positions before any purchase.
Free design appointments and the £50 measure
The measure visit checks the actual area so units fit as drawn. It reduces last-minute problems and avoids ill-fitting appliances.
Planning pitfalls that cause installation issues
Common problems include unclear service positions, underestimated door clearances and missing ventilation. Share constraints early: boiler flues, consumer units and alcoves are typical trouble spots.
- Ask for service drawings that show plumbing and electrics to keep trades aligned.
- Click expand your brief to include lifestyle needs such as bins and charging points.
- Watch lead times around busy month periods to avoid scheduling delays.
Tip: spotting problems before fitting saves time and money on-site.
Styles, units and sizes: choosing the right B&Q kitchen
A carefully chosen mix of finishes and unit widths can make a small area feel balanced and efficient.
Caraway vs Innovo
Caraway offers seven door styles—mostly matt with one gloss option—giving broad style choice. Innovo is handleless, with three door styles and 11 finishes for a sleeker look.
Cabinet heights, end panels and unit widths
Innovo units are 34mm taller than standard. That extra height alters sightlines and storage; check oven housings and ceiling clearances before you commit.
- Mix standard widths with 50mm and 60mm options to fill awkward gaps and keep symmetry.
- Select matt finishes to hide fingerprints or gloss to make a compact kitchen feel larger.
- Include end panels, pelmets and cornices in measurements so the finish fits as planned.
- Check interior quality: runners, hinges and drawer build affect everyday use and long‑term quality.
Practical tip: see b&q door samples in store to check colour under your lighting. When finalising storage, click expand internal fittings to reduce bending in corner zones.
B&Q kitchen costs for cabinets and units
Start budgeting with a representative 12‑unit price range so you avoid surprises later.
Indicative pricing (May 2025) for a 12‑unit GoodHome design came in between £4,154 and £4,799. This figure covers cabinets, handles, cornices, plinths, pelmets and end panels. Prices shown include VAT and any advertised discounts at the time but remain subject to change.
This range excludes worktops, sink, taps and appliances, so add those items to see your true project total.
How design, finish and accessories affect your end cost
Door style, finish and internal storage upgrades can move the end price materially. Target upgrades where they matter most: drawer hardware and soft‑close runners are high‑value changes for everyday use.
Compare like‑for‑like quotes on unit count, carcass spec and included trims so you avoid overpaying. Use the company website to check current packages, then confirm the designer’s parts list against your online basket.
- Budget tip: allow a contingency for price shifts and stock delays — click expand this into your plan.
- Check lead times and delivery sequencing so assembly and fitting start as soon as goods arrive.
- Ask your company contact to confirm any sales deadlines to lock in prices.
| Item | Representative value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 12‑unit cabinetry, trims | £4,154–£4,799 | May 2025 quotes; VAT and discounts included |
| Worktops | Varies | Stone templating or budget laminates change price |
| Sink and taps | From ~£50 | Range depends on finish and brand |
| Appliances | From several hundred | Separate warranties and supply |
For a practical overview of the managed fitting process and expectations, see the kitchen installation guide.
Installation options compared: B&Q fitters vs independent installers
Choosing between a company-managed crew or a local tradesperson changes how you handle scheduling and risk. This decision affects cost, who signs off on final checks and how snagging is managed during kitchen fitting.
Pros and cons of a single managed service
Managed fitters give one contract, a single point of responsibility and a clearer warranty route. Many a customer likes the simplicity when delivery, assembly and snagging are co-ordinated by one team.
Cons: a managed route can cost more and offer less flexibility on timings or custom work. If you prefer local craft skills, an independent builder or fitter can be sharper on price.
Using Which? Trusted Traders to find a reliable fitter
Which? Trusted Traders is a good place to shortlist vetted professionals. It helps you compare references, recent jobs and communication style before you sign a contract.
- Check clarity of the quote, payment schedule and who arranges gas or electrical certification.
- Assess responsiveness and whether the fitter supplies insurance and a written scope.
- Click expand your comparison to include insurances, snagging terms and who handles remedial work.
“Insist on a detailed scope so the kitchen fitting runs to plan and workmanship standards are upheld.”
Contracts, guarantees and aftercare
Clear paperwork gives owners confidence when problems arise after fitting. Start by checking what the contract lists and which parts the guarantee covers. That prevents late disputes and helps you plan repairs.
25‑year cabinet guarantee: what’s covered and what isn’t
B&Q provides a 25‑year guarantee on GoodHome cabinet carcasses and many visible parts. Covered items include door and drawer fronts, panels, cornices, pelmets, plinths, hinges, worktops and drawers.
Excluded items are appliances, taps, sinks, internal storage, bins, accessory fittings, handles, under‑cabinet lights and hanging brackets. These carry separate manufacturer warranties.
Why a fixed‑price contract protects your budget
A fixed‑price contract gives certainty. It names parts, part codes and brands so like‑for‑like replacements are simpler if issues appear. Which? recommends getting three quotes and using a fixed sum where possible.
- Keep paperwork: store receipts, batch labels and service records to speed any claim with the company.
- Check exclusions: appliances and taps have separate warranties—manage those directly with the maker.
- Contract detail: ensure milestones, snagging resolution and payment stages are in writing; click expand clauses for variations.
- Aftercare: request care guidance for doors, worktops and hinges and schedule a post‑install walkthrough before final payment.
“Keep all labels and receipts; they make any claim faster and reduce friction with customer services.”
How B&Q stacks up against other kitchen companies
Choosing a supplier means weighing price, build and the service model as much as looks.
Positioning vs Wickes, IKEA and Howdens
B&Q sits among mainstream companies that offer broad style choice and competitive pricing, especially for flatpack ranges.
IKEA follows a similar flatpack route, so fitting time rises if you rely on on-site assembly. Howdens contrasts by supplying ready-assembled units, which can cut installation hours though product costs tend to be higher.
Which? tested 21 ranges with scores from 59% to 82%. The top nine all scored over 75%, showing clear variance in quality across brands.
Notably, two different brands failed a hinges test. That underlines the point: hardware matters as much as door finish when judging long‑term performance.
| Feature | B&Q | IKEA | Howdens |
|---|---|---|---|
| Supply model | Flatpack | Flatpack | Ready‑assembled |
| Typical fit time | Higher if assembly on-site | Higher for flatpack assembly | Lower due to ready units |
| Price positioning | Mainstream competitive | Value to mid | Trade mid to premium |
| Quality spread (Which?) | Within tested range | Within tested range | Within tested range |
- Read beyond the brochure: test scores show a best worst spread in durability and satisfaction.
- Check hardware: hinge and runner quality can make or break daily use.
- Service model: retail showrooms versus trade supply affect lead times and ordering process.
- Practical tip: shortlist one or two alternatives and request matching designs for a fair one‑to‑one cost and fit comparison.
“Click expand comparisons with like‑for‑like unit counts, hardware, and aftercare depth to make a fair decision.”
Buying your new kitchen: website, store and delivery tips
Begin with a web basket on the website, then check availability and delivery windows for your area. This helps you match dates to the fitter and avoid delays.
Visit the kitchen department to feel door finishes and compare colours. Bring measurements and photos so staff can give quicker, targeted advice.
If you skip a design appointment, double‑check unit compatibility and required trims, brackets and accessories before you finalise the order. Confirm product codes on the website with what’s in store.
- Plan delivery: see B&Q lead‑time notes and aim for goods a week before work starts so you can inspect items.
- Protect stock: click expand your delivery plan to include dry storage, floor protection and clear access routes to reduce damage risk.
- Ask staff: check current promotions and whether mixed orders affect dates or returns.
Around a busy month period, secure delivery and fitter slots early to keep momentum toward your new kitchen. Finally, confirm kerbside versus room‑of‑choice delivery so heavier packs arrive with help on hand.
Conclusion
In short, a well-planned project cuts surprises and keeps your new kitchen on time and on budget.
Key point: B&Q offers a managed fitting service, yet you can choose an independent fitter or a DIY route to suit skills and budget. Budget labour at about 20–30% of total spend and compare at least three quotes with fixed‑price terms to the end.
GoodHome Caraway and Innovo are flatpack; Innovo is handleless and slightly taller, which affects on‑site work and scheduling. Use the free design session and the refundable £50 measure to reduce rework in the last years of use.
Sequence gas and electrical trades, keep a snag list, store aftercare papers, then click expand your next steps: finalise the brief, lock dates and prepare the space for day one. For fuller guidance see the kitchen installation guide.
FAQ
Do B&Q install kitchens?
Yes — B&Q offers an optional fitting service for its kitchen ranges. The retailer provides everything from design appointments and site measures to a managed installation package using approved fitters. You can choose a full service that includes delivery, installation of units, worktops, sink and tap, and finishing touches such as end panels and trim, or you can buy units and fit them yourself or with an independent fitter.
How does the B&Q fitting service work?
After booking a design appointment you can request a measured survey (usually a paid visit that is often refundable when you order). B&Q then offers a fixed‑price installation quote from its kitchen department. If you accept, the company coordinates a date, supplies the goods and books approved fitters to carry out cabinet installation, worktop templating, cutting, fitting and finishing. Appliances, flooring and major plumbing or structural work may be handled separately and can add to the overall cost.
Can I use an independent fitter instead?
Absolutely. Many customers choose a local tradesperson or use services such as Which? Trusted Traders to find a reliable installer. Hiring your own fitter can reduce costs if you already have a preferred builder or carpenter, but you’ll need to manage delivery, inspection of units on arrival and ensure warranties remain valid by following B&Q’s installation guidance.
What does the typical B&Q fitting scope include?
The standard package usually covers installation of cabinets and wall units, fitting worktops (including workshop templating where offered), sink and tap installation, door and drawer refitting, kickboards, plinths and end panels, plus basic finishing and site clearance. Electrics and major plumbing alterations, appliance installation and flooring are commonly listed as extras.
Which items commonly cost extra?
Expect additional charges for worktop overhangs, complex sink/tap cut‑outs, bespoke edging, repositioning plumbing or gas, appliance connections, tiling, plastering and floor levelling. If your project needs a gas safe engineer, electrician or structural changes, those specialist costs are generally outside the standard fitting price.
How much does installation cost in 2025?
As a rough guide, labour often accounts for about 20–30% of the total kitchen spend. That means for a mid‑range scheme you might budget several thousand pounds for fitting alone. Costs vary by region, job complexity and whether worktops are stone. Always get multiple quotes and consider a fixed‑price contract to avoid surprise bills.
Are there real‑world examples of fitting prices?
Forum feedback and owner reports show wide variation: a small kitchen can cost under £1,500 to fit with a competent local fitter, while a larger, bespoke project with stone worktops and appliance install can run into several thousand pounds. Use examples only as a guide and seek tailored estimates for your area and specification.
How reliable is B&Q kitchen quality?
B&Q’s GoodHome ranges, including Caraway and Caraway Innovo, have seen independent lab testing and mixed owner feedback. Cabinets generally offer good value for price, with many customers reporting solid performance for years. Typical issues reported include hinge adjustments, wear at high‑use edges and occasional delivery‑related damage. Proper fitting and care extend longevity.
Are GoodHome Caraway and Caraway Innovo tested independently?
Yes, these ranges have been through consumer testing and durability checks. Tests focus on door stress, hinge life and surface resistance. Results help buyers compare handleless Innovo styles with traditional Caraway fronts in terms of finish and long‑term wear.
How long does it take to fit a flatpack GoodHome kitchen?
Timing depends on kitchen size and complexity. A competent fitter can install a small flatpack kitchen in a day or two; larger schemes, including worktop templating and plumbing, often take several days to a fortnight. Complexity increases fitter day‑rates and may require multiple trades on site.
When is DIY assembly sensible, and when is it risky?
DIY assembly saves labour cost if you have carpentry skills and time. It’s sensible for simple, straight layouts. It becomes risky for island units, integrated appliances, stone worktops or any project requiring plumbing or electrics changes. Mistakes can void warranties or lead to higher repair bills.
What design services does B&Q offer before fitting?
B&Q provides free design appointments and a measured survey (usually a fee that’s refund‑able with purchase). Designers produce CAD plans, suggest layouts and advise on cabinet sizes, tall units and end panels. Accurate measuring and clear planning reduce the chance of costly installation issues.
What planning faults commonly cause installation problems?
Inaccurate room measures, ignoring radiator or window placements, failing to check plumbing/electrics location and not accounting for worktop overhangs often cause delays. Also, mismatched unit heights or missing end panels create on‑site headaches that add time and cost.
How do Caraway and Caraway Innovo differ?
Caraway features traditional doors with handles, while Caraway Innovo is a handleless range with slimmer profiles and taller units available. Finish options and hinge styles differ, so choose based on aesthetic preference and the cabinet sizes required for your layout.
What cabinet sizes and accessories should I consider?
Standard cabinet widths range to suit typical layouts, but check for taller Innovo units if you need more storage. Don’t forget end panels, filler strips and internal organisers — these affect the finished look and functionality, and they add to the final cost.
What is the indicative price for a 12‑unit kitchen?
A 12‑unit kitchen from an economy to mid‑range line (excluding worktops, sink and appliances) can vary widely. Prices are influenced by door finish, internal fittings and accessories. For accurate budgeting, request a detailed quote from the website or in‑store design team and compare against independent suppliers.
How do installation options compare: B&Q fitters versus independent installers?
A single managed service simplifies logistics and warranty tracking, while independent fitters can be cheaper and offer local flexibility. Managed installs reduce your administrative burden but may mean less control over the trades used. Check references and contracts either way.
What guarantees and aftercare does B&Q provide?
Many B&Q kitchen cabinets come with a long cabinet guarantee (up to 25 years for carcasses in some ranges). Guarantees typically cover manufacturing defects but exclude damage from incorrect fitting, misuse, or natural wear. A fixed‑price contract and clear scope protect your budget and help manage aftercare expectations.
How does B&Q compare with Wickes, IKEA and Howdens?
B&Q sits between big‑box competitors: Wickes often focuses on trade installs and speed, IKEA on budget modular solutions and Howdens on trade‑only fitted kitchens. B&Q offers a middle ground with retail convenience, a broad range and optional fitting services. Choice depends on design needs, price and how much installation support you want.
Where should I buy: online, in store or by delivery?
Use the website for initial research and price checks, then book an in‑store design appointment for detailed planning. Delivery is widely available; ensure you inspect goods on arrival and arrange safe storage. Combining online convenience with a store visit helps avoid specification errors and reduces fitting issues.