COST GUIDES
How much does microwave installation cost?
Updated 07/26
Installing a built-in microwave typically costs between £70 and £500, with most homeowners paying around £125 for a standard fit. The total rises to £170–£1,500 if you are also buying the microwave itself.
If you already have the right space and a nearby power socket, fitting is straightforward. Add electrical work or cabinet modifications and the cost goes up.
Fast Facts
The average supply cost of a built-in microwave is £250
Microwave installation costs range from £70 - £500
The average cost for a professionally supplied and installed microwave is £375
How much does it cost to install a microwave?
| Item | Low | High | Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| Supply Built-In Microwave | £100 | £1,000 | £250 |
| Install Built-In Microwave | £70 | £500 | £125 |
| Total (supplied & installed) | £170 | £1,500 | £375 |
| Last updated: July 2026 Our costs are ballpark averages - get a local tradesperson to quote now | |||
These prices cover a standard built-in microwave installation by a qualified tradesperson. What you pay depends on the type of microwave, your kitchen setup, and whether any electrical work is needed.
What affects microwave installation costs?
The cost of microwave installation depends on the type of microwave, whether electrical work is needed, and how easy the cabinet is to access.
Type of microwave
Built-in microwaves vary in size, power, and complexity. A standard integrated model fits an existing cabinet space and costs £70–£500 to install, depending on what is involved. A combination microwave oven with grill or convection functions takes longer to fit and tends to cost more.
Compact solo microwaves sit at the lower end of that range. Larger combination units sit at the top.
Electrical requirements
Most built-in microwaves need a dedicated 13-amp socket. If one is not already in place, you will need an electrician to install one.
That adds £100–£200 to the cost, depending on how much cable work is needed. Check electrician hourly rates before getting quotes so you know what is reasonable.
Kitchen layout and access
A cabinet that already fits a microwave is easy to work with. A new space needs measuring, and sometimes adjusting.
If shelves need cutting or the unit is hard to reach, fitting takes longer, and that shows in the price. If you are having other kitchen work done at the same time, see extractor fan installation costs to plan ahead.
Removal of an existing microwave
Removing an old built-in microwave before fitting a new one can also lead to additional charges. This covers the time to disconnect and take out the old unit safely.
Ask your installer whether removal is included in their quote. Some tradespeople include it; others price it separately.
Built-in microwave supply costs
Built-in microwave prices run from £100 for a basic model to £1,000 for a high-end combination unit.
Most homeowners will spend around £250.
The price reflects power output, capacity, and brand. A solo built-in microwave handles the basics. A combination model adds grill or convection cooking, which takes more space and costs more to buy and install.
If you are replacing your microwave at the same time as your oven, it is worth getting both done together. See oven installation costs for what to expect.
Need help with microwave repair costs, not sure about electrician rates, simply searching for electricians near you? We're here to help.
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Can I install a microwave myself?
You can fit a freestanding microwave yourself with no specialist skills. Built-in models are different.
A built-in microwave must sit correctly in a cabinet, connect to a power source, and ventilate properly. Getting any of those wrong creates a fire risk or voids your warranty. Most manufacturers require professional installation for the warranty to stay valid.
If the job needs new electrical work, you must use a qualified electrician
Electrical work needs to meet Part P building regulations
Hiring a professional for the full job is worth it
You get the installation done correctly
The warranty protected
The work is signed off to a safe standard
If your microwave develops a fault later, see what microwave repair costs so you know what fixing it might set you back.
The ultimate guide to appliance maintenance
Our ultimate guide to appliance maintenance will help to make sure your appliances operate safely and efficiently while prolonging their lifespan.
How to find a microwave installer
Finding the right tradesperson makes the job simpler and safer. Use Checkatrade to search for a vetted local installer.
You can also find a local electrician near you if the job involves electrical work.
Before you contact anyone, have these details ready:
The make and model of your microwave
Whether cabinet modifications are needed
Whether you need an existing microwave removed
Whether a new electrical socket is required
Getting two or three quotes helps you spot a fair price.
Find qualified electricians working in your area
Microwave installation cost checklist
Microwave installation cost checklist
Before contacting a tradesperson, here's what to check:
Once you have ticked off the checklist above, here is where to look for trusted help nearby.
Still have questions? Here are some common ones about microwave installation.
Yes. An electrician can install a built-in microwave, particularly if any electrical work is required (such as adding a dedicated socket or extending a circuit). For a straightforward cabinet-mounted fit with an existing socket, a general handyperson or kitchen fitter can also carry out the work. If new electrical wiring is needed, you should use a Part P-registered electrician.
Yes, provided there is adequate ventilation. Built-in and integrated microwaves are specifically designed for cabinet installation and come with ventilation systems built in. Standard countertop microwaves should not be enclosed in a cabinet without ventilation clearance on all sides, as this causes overheating and can be a fire risk.
For a freestanding countertop microwave, no: it simply plugs into a standard socket. For a built-in or integrated microwave, professional installation is recommended. Cabinet fitting requires carpentry skills to ensure a flush, secure fit, and if any electrical work is involved, a qualified electrician is required by law.
A straightforward built-in microwave installation typically takes one to two hours. Jobs that involve making a new cabinet opening, removing an old unit, or adding a new socket take longer, usually three to four hours in total.
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