New worktops. A kitchen you already love.

Ask a fabricator or kitchen professional to inspect the cabinets for condition, level and suitable support. Explain any movement, past water damage or plans to change the layout. A photograph can help an initial conversation but cannot replace the required checks.

Keep a clear list of what you want to retain: sink, tap, hob, tiles and upstands. Then ask whether their dimensions, fixing arrangements and positions are compatible with the proposed new worktop. Reusing an appliance should be a confirmed choice.

Request a written breakdown of removal and disposal, including what happens to the old sink and hob. Agree who disconnects and reconnects plumbing and electrical or gas services, and ensure the appropriate qualified trades handle that work.

Ask how adjoining tiles, cabinets and walls will be protected, and who is responsible for making good if removal reveals damage. Allow for a period when the kitchen may not be fully usable; get an actual schedule from the provider.

A replacement is a good point to reconsider the edge profile, tap position, upstand height and the relationship between the hob and the wall. Discuss these changes before the final template.

Changing the thickness may affect appliance clearances or leave a line visible where the previous surface met the wall. Ask the installer to check those details on site. A coordinated solution is easier to agree before fabrication.

• Photograph the whole kitchen and the underside of the current worktop where accessible.
• Sketch each run and note any corner joints.
• List the sink, hob and tap you want to keep or replace.
• Include removal, disposal and reconnections as separate quote items.
• Describe access, stairs and parking arrangements.

Use the initial measuring guide and add what you know to your project brief. Dimensions remain approximate until confirmed by the fabricator.