The delivery date of your new IKEA kitchen is approaching. You've probably already booked an assembly service. But is your kitchen space really ready for the fitters?
Nothing is as frustrating as a fitter who cannot start because the pipework is incorrect, or because the walls are still wet from plastering. This leads to delays and unexpected extra costs. Use this comprehensive checklist to ensure the assembly can proceed flawlessly.
1. The Room is Completely Empty and Clean
The fitters need space. Not just where the kitchen will go, but also room to walk and assemble cabinets.
- Old kitchen removed: The old cabinets, appliances, and tiles have been completely removed.
- Floor is clear: Remove loose items, tools from previous tradesmen, and protect your new floor with plasterer's floor protection if necessary.
- Walls are clear: Remove old screws, nails, and loose plaster.
2. Pipework and Wiring (Gas, Water, Electricity) is Exactly Right
This is the most critical point. Fitters of (IKEA) kitchens generally do not move pipes or cables in the walls; they only connect to them.
- Installation drawing: Check with a tape measure if all sockets and water connections are exactly in the positions indicated on the IKEA installation drawing.
- Separate circuits: Do the dishwasher, oven, and induction cooktop have their own, correctly fused circuit in the meter cupboard?
- Perilex present: If you are going to cook on induction, is the Perilex wall socket correctly installed and connected?
- Drain on a slope: Is the PVC drain in the right place and (if moved) on a slope?
3. Walls are Square, Straight, and Dry (Important!)
A sleek kitchen stands or falls with sleek walls.
- Plasterwork is dry: Kitchen cabinets cannot withstand moisture. If the walls are freshly plastered, they must be completely dry (this often takes 1 cm per week!).
- Walls are flat: IKEA METOD suspension rails require a flat wall. Are there large bumps in the wall? Then the cabinets will hang crookedly.
- Square corners: Measure the corners with a try square. If a corner is not 90 degrees, the worktop in the corner will not fit nicely against the wall (this is a major problem, especially with stone worktops).
[!WARNING] Plasterboard walls must be reinforced with OSB or plywood behind them. Plasterboard alone (even with hollow wall anchors) is absolutely not strong enough to carry heavy kitchen cabinets filled with tableware!
4. The Boxes are Stored Correctly
IKEA often delivers more than a hundred packages for an average kitchen.
- Check the packing slip: Check within 24 hours of delivery whether the number of boxes matches the packing slip.
- Store in another room: Preferably store the boxes in the living room or an adjacent room, not where the kitchen is to be built. After all, the fitter needs access to the walls.
- Dry and warm: Never store the boxes outside under a tarp or in a damp, unheated garage. The chipboard immediately attracts moisture and warps.
5. Other Important Details
- Parking space: Is there room for the fitter's work van? Register them in advance for permit parking if necessary.
- Light and Power: Is there working light and does the power work in the kitchen area (so tools can be used)?
- Waste: Fitters usually do not take the cardboard with them, unless explicitly agreed upon. Make sure you know what you are going to do with the packaging material.
Quick Check: Is Your Space Ready?
| Checkpoint | Ready? | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Old kitchen completely removed | ☐ | Fitter can start immediately |
| Pipework in exact position | ☐ | Prevents delays and extra costs |
| Separate circuits + Perilex present | ☐ | Safety and correct connection |
| Walls dry, flat, and square | ☐ | Sleek assembly, no warping |
| Plasterboard reinforced with OSB/plywood | ☐ | Load-bearing for heavy cabinets |
| Boxes checked and stored dry | ☐ | No damage or missing parts |
| Parking space + working power arranged | ☐ | Smooth working day for the fitter |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long must plasterwork dry before the kitchen can be assembled?
Plasterwork must be completely dry before kitchen cabinets are placed. Allow about 1 millimeter of drying time per day; with a thick layer this takes well over a week. Wood and chipboard attract moisture, causing your kitchen to warp and mold to develop.
Is plasterboard strong enough to carry kitchen cabinets?
No, plasterboard alone is absolutely not strong enough to carry heavy kitchen cabinets filled with tableware, even with hollow wall anchors. The wall must be reinforced with OSB or plywood behind it.
Should I check the IKEA boxes upon delivery?
Yes, check within 24 hours of delivery whether the number of boxes matches the packing slip. Store the boxes dry and warm (not outside or in a damp garage), because chipboard immediately attracts moisture and warps.
Everything Checked Off?
Fantastic! Your space is ready for a quick and professional assembly. Haven't found an installer yet? Montage Vandaag is the independent specialist in assembling IKEA kitchens. We offer fair rates and craftsmanship.
Calculate your costs directly online or request a quote!