# How much does a new kitchen cost and how long will it last?

Posted 26/06/2019 by [Your Move](/blog/authors/marketing-team)

Read our guide on fitting a new kitchen for your tenants

  ![family baking in a kitchen](https://www.your-move.co.uk/uploads/blog_post/12_933_s.jpg?v=0) When you’re picking out a kitchen for a rented property, the first thing to remember is that it’s not for your own home, so there’s no need to spend a fortune! Most tenants are just looking for a well-equipped kitchen that’s easy to keep clean and tidy.

## Kitchen units and fittings

The kitchen is one of the most-used rooms in a rental property – particularly if you have multiple tenants – so you’ve got to make sure the basic units and fittings are hard-wearing. Invest in:

- Strong base units with adjustable support legs – and make sure there’s enough support under the middle of the units
- Plain, solid cupboard doors
- Good-quality hinges

Finally, a counter surface that won’t show marks easily, such as laminate or an engineered stone composite. Bear in mind laminate isn’t heat resistant, so it might be better to spend a bit more on something that will stay looking good for longer.

A good mid-range kitchen from either a trade supplier like Howdens, or DIY outlets such as B&Q or Wickes, should cost around £3,500. In terms of lifespan, it should last around 15 years before you might need to replace cupboard doors and the counter top.

## Décor

Use specialist grease proof, waterproof and mould-resistant paint on the walls and ceiling to make it easier to clean and minimise the chance of stains and mould. This should only be a few pounds more expensive than standard room paint.

Have easy-to-wipe splashbacks – either tiled or acrylic panels - paying attention to the areas behind the hob and the sink, where most of the splatter occurs.

For the floor, tiles are usually best, as they’re hard-wearing and easy to clean. Pick a medium to dark-colour that will conceal marks that occur through normal usage over time.

You will probably need to redecorate the kitchen every 3 to 5 years.

## Electrical equipment

**Even if a property is unfurnished, tenants today expect:**

- Oven and hob
- Fridge freezer
- Microwave
- Washing machine

These items can cost anything from a few hundred to over a thousand pounds. The important thing is to buy according to the usage each is likely to get and remember that the cheapest electrical appliances only tend to last a few years. You want to keep your tenants as happy as possible, so it is worth considering a mid-range price. Speak to your plumber and electrician to get their advice and if you’d like any other recommendations for local tradesmen or suppliers, just call into your nearest [Your Move branch](https://www.your-move.co.uk/branches).

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Sources:

<https://www.granddesignslive.com/resources/home-improvements/821-choosing-the-best-kitchen-worktop-for-your-budget>

[https://www.dulux.co.uk/en/products/dulux-easycare-bathroom-soft-sheen?h=gold&product=69923&id=49307&color-name=Ivory%20Lace&color-rgb=F7EDDA&fl-stickey=1&color-id=353264&cccid=1915072](https://www.dulux.co.uk/en/products/dulux-easycare-bathroom-soft-sheen?h=gold&product=69923&id=49307&color-name=Ivory%20Lace&color-rgb=F7EDDA&fl-stickey=1&color-id=353264&cccid=1915072)

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