When you are planning a new kitchen, you will usually find two routes: a kitchen company with a showroom, or an independent kitchen fitter. Both can give you a lovely kitchen, so the right choice depends on what matters most to you.
I am an independent fitter, so I am biased, but here is a fair look at both.
What a Kitchen Company Offers
A kitchen company has a showroom where you can see and touch finishes, and that is a real advantage if you like to browse in person. Many companies also offer a design service and a fitting service under one roof.
What an Independent Fitter Offers
With an independent fitter, you deal with the person who does the work. At Allsop Interiors that is me. I design, supply and fit your kitchen, with the plumbing and electrics done in-house and no subcontractors. I work with a wide range of manufacturers to suit different tastes and preferences, so you are not limited to one range.
Accountability and Communication
The biggest difference is who you call when something needs sorting. With an owner-led business, there is one point of contact from the first conversation to the handover document, daily updates while the work is going on and a 12-month workmanship guarantee that I stand behind personally.
Cost and Value
Prices vary by project in both cases, so compare like with like. Every kitchen from us is individually quoted after a free home consultation, and installation takes approximately two weeks, depending on the project. Ask any company to quote for the same layout, the same products and the same fitting, then compare.
When a Kitchen Company Might Suit You Better
If you want to see a full range of kitchens in a showroom before you decide, or you want a particular brand's range, a kitchen company may be the better place to start. We have no showroom, because all our consultations take place in your home.
How to Decide
Ask who will actually fit the kitchen, whether anything is subcontracted, how many weeks to expect, what the guarantee covers and how payment works. The answers will tell you a lot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an independent kitchen fitter cheaper than a kitchen company?
It depends on the project. The best approach is to ask each for a quote on the same layout and products, then compare.
Do you have a showroom?
No. All our consultations are held in your home, which lets us see the room and measure properly.
Do you subcontract any work?
No. Plumbing and electrical work are done in-house by Simon and his brother-in-law.
How long does a kitchen installation take?
Approximately two weeks on site, depending on the project, with a current waiting time of approximately three months from enquiry to start, depending on availability.
Ready to Start?
Let's Talk About Your Project
Call Simon on 07729 992138 or fill in the contact form to arrange a free, no-obligation consultation at your home. Our current waiting time is approximately three months, depending on availability.
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