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Engineers removing old kitchen units in Watford
Published On: 28 July 2026|2.8 min read|

A new kitchen is one of the most exciting home improvement projects you can undertake, but before the beautiful new cabinets, worktops and appliances can be installed, there’s an important first step – the kitchen strip-out.

At Gas Mark 1, we believe that a well-planned strip-out lays the foundation for a smooth installation and a high-quality finish. Here’s what you can expect when our team begins work on your new kitchen.

Preparing the Area

Before any work starts, our installation team will carefully protect your home where required. We understand that we’re working in your living space, so we take care to minimise disruption and keep the work area as tidy as possible throughout the project.

Disconnecting Services Safely

Safety always comes first.

Our qualified engineers will isolate and disconnect any gas, water and electrical services connected to your existing kitchen. This ensures that all work is carried out safely and in accordance with current regulations.

Whether it’s a gas hob, electric oven, sink, dishwasher or washing machine, each appliance is disconnected professionally before removal.

Removing the Existing Kitchen

Once the services have been isolated, we begin dismantling the existing kitchen.

This typically includes removing:

  • Kitchen cabinets
  • Worktops
  • Sink and taps
  • Appliances
  • Wall units
  • Splashbacks
  • Flooring (where required)

Our experienced installers remove everything carefully while protecting the surrounding areas of your home as much as possible.

Inspecting What’s Behind the Kitchen

One of the most valuable parts of the strip-out process is that it allows us to inspect areas that have been hidden for many years.

Occasionally, we uncover issues such as:

  • Water damage
  • Damp
  • Uneven walls
  • Worn plumbing
  • Outdated electrical wiring
  • Damaged flooring

Finding these issues before the new kitchen is installed allows them to be corrected properly, preventing problems further down the line.

First Fix Works

With the room cleared, we can begin the first fix stage.

Depending on your new kitchen design, this may include:

  • Altering plumbing pipework
  • Installing new gas pipework where required
  • Moving electrical sockets
  • Preparing lighting circuits
  • Repositioning waste pipes
  • Making good walls ready for plastering

Getting these hidden elements right ensures your new kitchen functions as beautifully as it looks.

Preparing for Installation

Once all preparation work has been completed, the room is ready for the exciting part—the installation of your new kitchen.

Our installers work methodically to fit cabinets, worktops, appliances, sinks and finishing touches to create a kitchen that’s built to last.

Why a Professional Strip-Out Matters

Although it may seem like simply removing old units, a kitchen strip-out requires experience, planning and attention to detail.

A professional strip-out helps to:

  • Identify hidden issues early
  • Ensure gas, water and electricity are made safe
  • Protect your property during the works
  • Keep the project running on schedule
  • Create the perfect foundation for your new kitchen

At Gas Mark 1, our experienced team manages every stage of the project, from initial design through to final installation, giving you complete peace of mind throughout your kitchen renovation.

Planning a New Kitchen?

If you’re considering a new kitchen, our experienced design and installation team is here to help. Visit our Watford showroom to explore a wide range of kitchen displays from a wide range of trusted manufacturers, discuss your ideas with our designers and discover how we can transform your space from start to finish.

Contact Gas Mark 1 today to arrange your free kitchen design consultation and take the first step towards your dream kitchen.