Quick answer: B&Q supplies GoodHome ranges as flat pack units, which changes delivery footprint, assembly steps plus on-site fitting time compared with rigid cabinets.
What to expect: Caraway offers seven door styles, mostly matt with one gloss. Caraway Innovo is handleless with three door styles, 11 finishes, and carcasses 34mm taller to suit the rail system.
B&Q provides a free design appointment online or in-store and an optional refundable £50 home measure. Accurate dimensions cut rework later in the process and smooth the service timeline.
Installation routes include DIY, B&Q’s managed fitting service or hiring an independent fitter. For budgeting, a 12-unit quote in May 2025 sat between £4,154 and £4,799 (units, trims plus panels only). BCIS (2025) suggests labour will be about 20–30% of total spend.
B&Q guarantees GoodHome cabinets for 25 years; covers many fronts yet excludes appliances, taps, sinks plus some accessories. Which? lab testing checks unit strength, shelves, runners and hinges to assess durability beyond showroom looks.
Key Takeaways
- B&Q sells GoodHome as flat pack, with Caraway plus Innovo families to suit style needs.
- Innovo carcasses are 34mm taller—important for appliance alignment and window-sill clearances.
- Free design help plus refundable £50 measure reduce on-site surprises.
- Expect a 12-unit price band of £4,154–£4,799; labour typically 20–30% of spend.
- The 25-year guarantee covers most cabinet parts; some items need separate cover.
- Which? tests and real-world experience, including a friend contractor, highlight fitting time differences versus suppliers like Howdens.
Are b and q kitchens flat pack
Short answer: GoodHome arrives as boxed components, which changes delivery needs and on-site work.
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What boxed delivery means for delivery, assembly and time
Yes — B&Q kitchens come as boxed units under the GoodHome name. Cabinets, doors and fixings arrive in packs to be assembled at the property.
Delivery is usually more compact, easier to move through narrow hallways and lowers the risk of damage to large pre-built units.
Assembly adds steps: carcasses, runners, hinges and doors are built up, then positioned, levelled and fixed. Allow extra time compared with ready-made units.
- Competent DIYers can assemble units to reduce labour time, but accuracy matters.
- Innovo carcasses are 34mm taller; this changes rail and plinth alignment.
- Smaller packs are easier to stage in a spare room, cutting site congestion.
- Ask fitters for a clear split of assembly versus installation costs to compare prices.
| Aspect | What to expect | Impact on time | Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delivery | Boxed components, compact loads | Faster unloading in tight access | Stage packs before work starts |
| Assembly | On-site build of units, doors, runners | Adds labour hours | Do some DIY to cut fitter time |
| Site impact | More packaging, some cutting noise | Short bursts of disruption | Plan waste disposal in advance |
For a quick review of cabinet choices and complete units, check complete kitchen units.
B&Q GoodHome ranges, styles and sizes
GoodHome splits into two clear families that suit classic tastes or a modern handleless look.
Caraway versus Innovo: style, finish and handleless detail
Caraway offers seven door styles, mostly matt with one gloss option. It suits slab and shaker schemes that age well.
Caraway Innovo is handleless, with three door styles across 11 finishes for contemporary schemes. The handleless rail changes how light hits doors, so pair finishes with worktops for a cohesive result.
Unit sizes and the taller Innovo carcass
Core units come in standard widths plus 50mm and 60mm options. These help close gaps without losing storage.
Innovo carcasses are 34mm taller to house the integrated rail. That extra height alters plinth depth, door proportions and sometimes wall cabinet alignment during installation.
What’s included in a typical offer
A 12‑unit quote usually contains cabinets, doors and drawer fronts, handles, cornices, pelmets, plinths and end panels. Worktops, sinks, taps and appliances sit outside this package.
- Use narrower widths to optimise corner solutions and bin pull‑outs.
- Lay out Innovo rails and fittings by unit to streamline assembly.
- Knowing what each unit includes helps compare prices across ranges.
Design and planning: B&Q service and what to expect
Start with a free design appointment via the B&Q website or in store. You can add a £50 home measure that is refundable if you buy. Which? research shows 202 people used the design service, so the process is well trialled.
Free appointment and optional measure
Book online or in person. A designer will work through layout ideas, practical constraints and a parts list. The refundable measure helps cut costly errors later.
What to prepare to avoid rework
- Bring wall‑to‑wall measurements, ceiling height and exact positions of doors, windows, sockets, gas and water services.
- Note appliance sizes, ventilation needs and power ratings for cabinet planning.
- Share lifestyle ideas, photos and a clear budget so the plan matches how your household cooks and entertains.
- Ask for elevations, a parts list and lead times; use these to check with your fitter and avoid issues on site.
Installation routes: DIY, B&Q fitting service or your own kitchen fitter
Plan the installation early. Choose the route that fits your skills, schedule and budget. Each option changes how long the project takes and who you call if things need fixing.
DIY fitting — pros: you control the job schedule, can pre‑assemble units to reduce fitter time, and save money on straightforward runs when you are confident and accurate.
DIY fitting — cons: assembly requires tools, patience and precision. Mistakes in squareness or drilling cause poor door alignment and sticky drawers.
Using B&Q’s managed installation
B&Q’s service bundles survey, fitting and coordination. It is useful if you want a single point of contact and predictable timelines. Ask for a clear schedule and what the price covers.
Hiring an independent fitter
Independent kitchen fitter options can be flexible on time and pricing. Get at least three quotes. Where possible, agree a fixed‑price contract that spells out the full scope.
Flat pack versus ready‑made units
Flat pack units often lower unit costs but add on‑site assembly time. Ready‑made cabinets from suppliers such as howdens kitchens reduce build time and may cut labour costs.
- Request quotes that separate assembly from installation so you can decide whether to pre‑assemble.
- Plan a clear workspace for assembly and safe storage of doors to avoid scuffs.
- Sequence trades: electrical, plumbing and plastering before cabinet runs; allow time for templating.
Budget tip: If money is tight, assemble units yourself and hire a fitter to level, fix and scribe. This hybrid approach can save money while keeping quality high.
Prices, costs and value: materials, labour and total budget
Plan for more than the cabinet ticket price to avoid unwelcome surprises.
Headline figure: Which? mystery shopping in May 2025 shows a 12‑unit B&Q quote sits between £4,154 and £4,799. That band covers cabinetry plus handles, cornices, pelmets, plinths and end panels.
These totals do not include worktops, sink, taps, appliances, fitting trades, electrical changes or waste removal. Expect extra sums for those items when you set a final budget.
Labour expectations
BCIS (2025) guidance: labour typically accounts for about 20–30% of the total kitchen spend.
Use that ratio to work backwards from your material cost. If cabinetry is £4,500, plan roughly £1,125–£1,800 for fitter time, plumbing and electrical work.
Saving money on the job
Ask fitters to split quotes into assembly versus installation. Doing some assembly yourself can reduce money paid for on‑site hours.
- Shop standard unit sizes to keep material cost down.
- Avoid bespoke storage upgrades unless essential—they add product cost and fitter time.
- Confirm delivery dates and stage payments to match design sign‑off and installation milestones.
| Item | Included | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Quoted range | £4,154–£4,799 | Cabinets, trims, handles; VAT and discounts applied |
| Excluded | Worktops, sinks, taps, appliances, trades | Budget separately for these costs |
| Labour guide | 20–30% | Use BCIS as planning tool for realistic spend |
Value tip: compare quotes that list units and trims clearly. Look beyond the low ticket price to guarantee length, design support and aftersales service when choosing a supplier or kitchen fitter.
Quality, guarantees and real‑world experience
Independent testing helps separate looks from long‑term performance.
Independent labs run 19 specific tests. These include shelf loading, drawer runner cycles and hinge endurance. Testers open and close drawers thousands of times to mirror years of use. Results highlight weak points that a short showroom trial will miss.
What lab tests assess
Tests check unit strength, load capacity, runner durability and hinge life. They also measure drawer alignment after repeated use. Which? uses this data in a practical review to rate real performance.
B&Q’s 25‑year guarantee: coverage and limits
B&Q offers a 25‑year guarantee on GoodHome cabinets. The cover includes door and drawer fronts, panels, cornices, pelmets, plinths, hinges, worktops and drawers.
The guarantee excludes appliances, taps, sinks, internal storage, bins, accessories, handles, under‑cabinet lighting and hanging brackets. Keep purchase records and batch details to support any claim.
Common long‑term wear points to watch for
Survey data shows 44% of owners saw wear after five years. The most common issues were finish scratches (15%) and soft‑close failures (12%).
- Protect door fronts during assembly and store panels flat to avoid warping.
- Tighten hinges periodically, clean gently and use felt pads to preserve finishes.
- Confirm spare doors and runners are available for simple part replacement.
- Good fitting practice — correct levelling and squaring — reduces early issues.
“Robust hardware matters; members often flag hinges and runners as key to long life.”
How does B&Q compare with other kitchen suppliers?
Deciding between boxed components or rigid cabinets often comes down to access, labour and budget. This helps set realistic expectations before you request quotes or book a survey.
B&Q vs Howdens: ready‑made trade‑offs
B&Q ships GoodHome as boxed components that cut delivery size and can lower unit prices. You may add assembly time on site unless you pre‑assemble.
Howdens tends to supply rigid cabinets. That reduces fitter hours and speeds installation but can lift unit costs. Which? testing and customer review scores help compare durability and service.
B&Q vs IKEA and Wickes: design, range and value
B&Q offers free design plus a refundable £50 home measure. IKEA uses modular planning tools and wide finish choice. Wickes sits between, with multiple ranges and straightforward buying.
Perceived value differs by guarantee, spare parts access and local fitter availability. A homeowner account and a friend who is a contractor both note boxed units need more on‑site steps, yet DIY assembly can save money if done well.
| Aspect | B&Q | Howdens | IKEA / Wickes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delivery | Boxed components, easier access | Rigid units, larger loads | Modular packs; variable sizes |
| Fitting time | More assembly hours unless pre‑built | Faster install; less on‑site build | Depends on range; IKEA needs planning time |
| Design support | Free design, refundable measure | Trade‑led planning, survey service | IKEA planning tools; Wickes offers in‑store help |
| Value | Competitive unit prices; price band £4,154–£4,799 (12 units) | Higher unit cost, lower labour risk | Good for budget or bespoke modular choices |
Conclusion
Strong, clear planning ends with fewer surprises. This guide shows B&Q kitchen GoodHome ranges arrive boxed, so plan extra time for on‑site assembly or pre‑assemble units to speed fit‑days.
Keep costs holistic: balance unit price with labour, worktops and extras. The end figure matters more than a low ticket cost.
Play to strengths: do some make kitchen work yourself if confident, then task a pro with levelling and final fixings to save time and money.
The 25‑year cabinet guarantee gives long term reassurance; check what it covers for doors, hinges and worktops before you buy.
Next steps: book a free design appointment, order a refundable measure if needed, then get two or three like‑for‑like quotes from a kitchen supplier or fitter so you can finish this year with confidence.
FAQ
Are B&Q GoodHome kitchens supplied flat pack?
GoodHome ranges are supplied unassembled in boxes for self-assembly or fitter installation. Delivery arrives as packed carcasses, doors, hinges and fixings rather than pre-assembled units, which reduces transport costs and allows easier handling on site.
What does “flat pack” mean for delivery, assembly and on‑site time?
Flat-packed products come in component form and need assembly. That means more time on site for assembly and alignment, and a fitter will need standard joinery skills and tools. Delivery is usually simpler and cheaper, but expect unpacking, edge‑sealing and adjustment during installation.
How do Caraway and Caraway Innovo door styles and finishes differ?
Caraway offers classic door profiles and finishes; Innovo is the more contemporary, handleless option with sleeker edges and a deeper carcass in some units. Finish textures and colourways vary between ranges, so inspect samples in store to compare look and feel.
What is the 34mm taller Innovo carcass and why does it matter?
The Innovo carcass is 34mm taller than standard units, which can improve drawer capacity and alignment with worktop heights. It may affect appliance fit and toe‑kick alignment, so confirm measurements during the design stage to avoid surprises.
Which cabinets, doors and accessories are included in the standard offer?
Standard supply typically covers carcasses, doors/drawers, hinges, soft‑close runners (depending on range), basic plinths and some internal organisers. Extras like specialist storage fittings, worktops, sinks or appliances are usually charged separately.
What design and planning services does B&Q provide?
B&Q offers free in‑store or online design appointments and an optional measured survey for a fee (often around £50). Designers produce plans and quotations; you can revise layouts and pick finishes before committing to an order.
What should I prepare before a design meeting to avoid rework?
Bring accurate room measurements, plumbing/electrical locations, window and door positions, and a clear brief for storage and appliance needs. Photos and ideas boards help. Accurate early information reduces change orders and extra labour later.
Can I fit a GoodHome kitchen myself, and what are the pros and cons?
DIY fitting saves labour costs but requires time, patience and basic carpentry skills. Pros: lower cost and flexibility. Cons: longer project time, risk of mistakes affecting warranty or finish, and potential issues with plumbing or electrics needing certified tradespeople.
What does B&Q’s managed installation service include?
The managed service coordinates measurement, delivery and fitting by vetted installers. It can include removal of old units, installation of carcasses, worktop fitting and appliance installs, though some bespoke works may cost extra. Check the scope and guarantees before booking.
Is hiring an independent kitchen fitter a good option?
Independent fitters often offer competitive quotes and flexible schedules. Obtain multiple written quotes, check references, confirm timelines and sign a contract outlining payment milestones, snagging, and responsibility for damage or rework.
How do flat‑packed cabinets compare with ready‑made units in terms of labour and stress?
Flat‑pack units typically increase on‑site labour for assembly and fitting but reduce purchase cost. Ready‑made cabinets save time and reduce fitting complexity, which can lower stress and shorten project duration, but they often carry a higher initial price.
What are typical price points for a 12‑unit kitchen (indicative, May 2025)?
Prices vary by range, finish and extras. A basic 12‑unit GoodHome composition may start at a lower price bracket, while higher‑end finishes and added storage or appliances push totals up. Always check current online prices and in‑store offers for accurate figures.
How much of my budget should I expect to allocate to labour?
Labour commonly accounts for around 20–30% of the total kitchen spend, covering fitting, plumbing and electrics. Complex layouts, angled units or bespoke work can raise that share, so factor labour into your overall budget early on.
Where can I realistically save money on a kitchen project?
Savings appear by choosing simpler finishes, retaining existing layouts to avoid rewiring or replumbing, and taking on non‑specialist tasks yourself. Beware cutting costs on critical trades like gas, plumbing or worktop templating where mistakes are costly.
What do independent lab tests assess for kitchen units?
Tests focus on unit strength, drawer and runner durability, hinge life, moisture resistance and finish adhesion. These checks reveal how materials perform under repeated use, helping spot weak points before long‑term wear appears.
What does B&Q’s 25‑year cabinet guarantee cover and exclude?
The guarantee usually covers structural defects in cabinet carcasses under normal domestic use. Exclusions often include wear and tear, improper installation, water damage, accidental impact and unauthorised modifications. Keep receipts and follow care guidance to support any claim.
Which areas commonly show long‑term wear in kitchens?
High‑use zones like drawer runners, hinges, worktop edges and cabinet bottoms near sinks are prone to wear. Moisture exposure, heavy loading and poor ventilation accelerate deterioration, so choose materials and maintenance routines that suit your household.
How does B&Q compare with Howdens regarding cabinet type and fitting?
Howdens typically supplies pre‑assembled units to trade fitters, which speeds installation but limits self‑fit options. B&Q focuses on boxed components suitable for DIY or fitters. Each model suits different priorities: speed and trade installation (Howdens) versus consumer choice and lower purchase cost (B&Q).
How do B&Q, IKEA and Wickes compare on design support and value?
IKEA offers strong modular design tools and value for many budgets, Wickes provides project ranges and fitting options, while B&Q combines in‑store design services with a broad range of finishes. Perceived value depends on finish quality, service level and how much fitting support you need.