The average cost of a new kitchen is 8,000 but you can give your kitchen a facelift on a budget as long as you stick to some simple rules. To get your kitchen renovation right, it is important that you carry out lots of research and plan and budget carefully. Make sure you work out your budget before you start, as it is very easy to get carried away once you start looking at attractive new units and appliances. Decide if you want to replace doors and/or worktops and whether you want to change your units as well as your sink and taps. Alternatively, you could opt for a stylish new sink and taps but simply paint your existing units and tiles. Make a list of everything that you want from your new kitchen. For example, are you replacing like-for-like and keeping your sink etc. in the same position or do you want a complete change in kitchen layout that may necessitate extra plumbing and electrical charges? Once you have completed your research, you may need to find a kitchen supplier and installer. Depending on your requirements and budget, you may want to use a specialist kitchen supplier. Check to make sure that they are members of KBSA (www.kbsa.org.uk.) Likewise, if you require a plumber, check they are a member of APHC (www.aphc.co.uk) or CIPHE (www.ciphe.org.uk). Many DIY kitchen suppliers will also fit the kitchen for you or you can get a local joiner or builder to install it. Dont forget to get a signed contract from whoever you choose and never pay for all the costs up front you should normally only be asked to pay a deposit. Many stores and suppliers also have free planning and design services. It is very important to manage your expectations. You may want your kitchen fitted within a month but be aware that a bespoke kitchen can take 12 weeks or longer. Ideally, you should be present when the work is being carried out or, at least, available on the phone in case you need to make a key decision. Assume that things will not always go smoothly and that decisions will need to be made along the way. Remember to check out before you start whether any building regulations or planning permissions are required. Electrical work should be undertaken by a Part P registered electrician and they must be a member of an organisation such as NAPIT. Any gas work requires a Gas Safe Register engineer.