Kitchen renovations and refits are one of the most common causes of worktop damage. Even when a homeowner is keeping their existing worktop, the disturbance of removing appliances, replumbing, tiling and fitting new units frequently results in chips, scratches or cracks to the surface. Knowing what to do — and who to call — can save a costly replacement.
Common Worktop Damage Caused During Kitchen Refits
- Chips from tools — tile cutters, drills, hammers and other tools placed on or near worktops
- Scratches from appliance removal and reinstallation — sliding dishwashers, washing machines or ovens across the surface
- Corner and edge chips — from tiles or units being manoeuvred past the worktop
- Cracks near the sink — from pressure applied to the undermount sink during plumbing work
- Hob cutout damage — damage around the hob opening during removal or replacement
- Chemical staining — from grout, adhesive, sealant or cleaning products splashed on the surface
Who Is Responsible?
If a kitchen fitter or tradesperson caused the damage, they are responsible for making it good. Documenting the condition of the worktop before work begins — with photographs — is strongly recommended. This protects both the homeowner and the trader and makes it much easier to establish liability if damage occurs.
Shazam Repairs frequently works directly with kitchen fitters and renovation companies to repair damage caused during installation before the customer’s final inspection.
Repairing vs Replacing a Damaged Worktop After a Refit
If the worktop is otherwise in good condition and the damage is localised, on-site repair is almost always the right choice. A new replacement slab means removing and discarding the existing worktop, sourcing a matching material (which may no longer be in production), cutting, edging and fitting — a process that can cost several times the price of a professional repair.
We Work With Tradespeople and Kitchen Companies
We have trade accounts with a number of kitchen installation companies and fitters across the UK. If you are a kitchen fitter who needs to resolve worktop damage quickly and professionally, we can usually attend within a few days. Contact us for trade pricing →
