This page provides general practical guidance and does not replace project-specific legal, engineering, planning, ecological, asbestos or waste advice.
The short answer
Kitchen removal is priced on the specific scope agreed in writing: what is being removed, whether any items are being carefully dismantled for reuse, which appliances are included, whether tiles or flooring are in scope, and the condition required at handover. Each kitchen removal is quoted individually, based on the work required. Send photographs, your postcode and a description of the scope to receive a written quotation.
Why it matters
Kitchen removal scopes vary significantly. A straightforward removal of units and worktops for disposal is a different job from careful dismantling of a fitted kitchen for reuse, or a full strip-out that includes tiles, flooring, appliances and service-connection points. The access route, number of floors, waste volume and required handover condition all affect the method and cost. A quotation that does not reflect the actual scope is not a reliable basis for planning.
Information that may be needed
To receive a written quotation, send: project postcode, photographs of the kitchen from all angles (including appliances, worktops, tiles and flooring if in scope), approximate dimensions, a description of what must be removed and what must remain, access details including any stairs or restricted entry, whether any items are to be carefully dismantled for reuse, and the required handover condition. If a main contractor or architect is involved, their handover requirements should be confirmed before the scope is finalised. Timing requirements are also useful — some programmes require the kitchen to be cleared before other trades can start.
What can affect the scope
Kitchen size and construction affect the volume of waste and the time required. Access and stairs affect the carrying distance and method — a first-floor kitchen with a narrow staircase is a different scope from a ground-floor kitchen with direct external access. Worktop material affects removal method: solid stone worktops are heavy and require careful handling. Service-disconnection responsibilities must be confirmed before work starts — gas disconnection requires a Gas Safe registered engineer, and electrical disconnection or alteration requires a qualified electrician; these are not included in the removal scope unless expressly stated. Reuse requirements change the method: careful dismantling for reuse takes longer than removal for disposal and must be agreed in writing. Tiles and flooring, where in scope, add waste volume and may expose or damage the substrate. Waste removal and disposal is itemised separately and depends on the volume, weight and type of material arising.
When specialist input may be needed
Gas disconnection requires a Gas Safe registered engineer. Electrical disconnection or alteration requires a qualified electrician. Where the kitchen is adjacent to structural elements or the removal involves opening up walls, a structural engineer may be needed. Where asbestos could be present in tiles, adhesives or other materials being disturbed, a refurbishment and demolition survey by a competent asbestos professional is required before work begins. These responsibilities must be confirmed in writing before the removal scope is finalised.