How Long Does a Kitchen Renovation Take in Bognor Regis?

Planning a kitchen renovation in Bognor Regis? One of the first questions on your mind is probably: how long will I be without my kitchen? It's a fair concern. Nobody wants to be living off takeaways and microwave meals for longer than necessary.

The good news? Most kitchen renovations take 4-6 weeks from start to finish. Simpler refits can be wrapped up in just 2-3 weeks. But as with most things in construction, the real answer depends on what you're actually having done.

Let's break down exactly what affects your kitchen renovation timeline, and how you can keep things moving smoothly.

The Quick Answer: Typical Kitchen Renovation Timelines

If you're short on time and just need the basics, here's what you can generally expect for a kitchen renovation in the Bognor Regis area:

These timelines assume everything runs to plan, which, with the right builder, it should. At Swanbourne Construction, we provide an exact timeline during your free consultation so you know precisely what to expect.

What Actually Affects How Long Your Kitchen Renovation Takes?

Not all kitchen projects are created equal. Here's what determines whether yours will be a quick refresh or a longer transformation.

1. The Scope of Work

This is the big one. A simple cosmetic update, think new cabinet doors, fresh paint, and modern handles, is worlds apart from ripping everything out and starting from scratch.

Cosmetic changes like repainting or replacing worktops can often be completed in under a week. But if you're moving plumbing, rewiring electrics, or changing the entire layout, you're looking at a more substantial project.

2. Structural Changes

Want to knock through to your dining room for that open-plan feel? Or perhaps you're considering a rear extension to create a larger kitchen-diner?

Structural work adds time, and rightly so. It requires careful planning, potential building regulations approval, and specialist trades. A project involving structural changes typically adds 2-4 weeks to your timeline.

3. Plumbing and Electrical Work

Moving your sink to a different wall? Installing a new oven that needs rewiring? These changes require certified professionals and inspections.

In the UK, electrical work in kitchens must comply with Part P of the Building Regulations. This means using a qualified electrician who can self-certify the work or having it inspected by your local building control. The same goes for gas work, only Gas Safe registered engineers can legally work on gas appliances.

This certification process is essential for your safety and adds a small amount of time, but a good contractor will factor this into your schedule from the start.

4. Lead Times for Materials

Here's something many homeowners don't consider: your kitchen units, worktops, and appliances need to be ordered in advance.

Standard kitchen cabinets might arrive within 2-3 weeks. But if you've chosen a bespoke design or specific high-end appliances, lead times can stretch to 6-8 weeks or more. We always recommend finalising your selections early to avoid delays once work begins.

5. The Condition of Your Existing Kitchen

Older properties in Bognor Regis and across West Sussex can sometimes throw up surprises once you start stripping things back. Outdated wiring, hidden damp, or unexpected plumbing configurations can all add time.

An experienced local builder, one who knows the housing stock in the area, will anticipate potential issues and build contingency into your timeline.

A Realistic Week-by-Week Breakdown

Wondering what actually happens during those 4-6 weeks? Here's a typical schedule for a mid-to-full kitchen renovation:

Week 1: Strip Out and Preparation

The old kitchen comes out. This includes removing units, appliances, flooring, and sometimes wall tiles. Any initial plumbing or electrical work begins. If there's structural work involved, this is when it starts.

Week 2: First Fix

This is the behind-the-scenes stage. Electricians run new cables, plumbers install pipework for your new layout, and any plastering or wall repairs happen. It might not look like much progress, but this groundwork is crucial.

Weeks 3-4: Installation

Now the exciting part begins. Your new kitchen units go in, worktops are templated and fitted, and flooring is laid. Appliances are connected, and the space really starts to take shape.

Weeks 5-6: Second Fix and Finishing

Final electrical connections, plumbing hook-ups, tiling, painting, and all those finishing touches. By the end of week 6, you should be cooking in your brand-new kitchen.

Can You Speed Things Up?

Yes, with some smart planning. Here are a few ways to keep your renovation on track (or even ahead of schedule):

Make decisions early. The biggest cause of delays? Homeowners changing their minds mid-project. Finalise your layout, colours, and materials before work begins.

Order materials in advance. Work with your builder to order everything with plenty of lead time. Nothing stalls a project faster than waiting for a backordered tap or delayed worktop.

Choose an experienced local contractor. A builder who knows Bognor Regis and the surrounding areas will have established relationships with local suppliers and trades, keeping everything moving efficiently.

Be realistic about your timeline. Rushing a kitchen renovation rarely ends well. A few extra days of planning can save weeks of fixing problems later.

What About Kitchen Refacing? A Faster Alternative

If a full renovation feels like too much disruption (or budget), kitchen refacing might be the answer.

Refacing involves replacing your cabinet doors and drawer fronts while keeping the existing carcasses. It costs 40-50% less than a full replacement and can be completed in just a few days with minimal disruption.

It's a fantastic option if your current layout works well but the style feels dated. You get a fresh, modern look without the lengthy timeline of a complete renovation.

Planning Permission and Building Regulations

Most kitchen renovations in West Sussex don't require planning permission: you're working within your existing footprint, after all. However, building regulations still apply to certain aspects:

• Electrical work must comply with Part P regulations
• Gas installations require Gas Safe certification
• Structural changes need building control approval

For more details on what requires approval, the Planning Portal is an excellent resource. And don't worry: at Swanbourne Construction, we handle all building regulations compliance as part of our service. One less thing for you to think about.

Why Local Experience Matters

Kitchen renovation timelines aren't just about the work itself: they're about coordination. Getting the right trades on site at the right time. Knowing which suppliers deliver reliably. Understanding the quirks of local housing stock.

That's why working with a builder who knows Bognor Regis and West Sussex makes such a difference. We've completed countless kitchen renovations across Chichester, Arundel, Westergate, and the surrounding areas. We know what works: and how to keep your project running smoothly.

Ready to Plan Your Kitchen Renovation?

Every kitchen is different, which means every timeline is different too. The best way to get an accurate schedule for your project? Talk to us.

We offer free, no-obligation consultations where we'll assess your space, discuss your ideas, and provide a realistic timeline tailored to your specific renovation. No guesswork, no surprises.

Give us a call on 07470 078236 or take a look at our previous projects to see the quality of work we deliver across West Sussex.

Your dream kitchen is closer than you think: let's work out exactly how long it'll take to get there.