When it comes to a kitchen renovation, the short answer is: cabinet makers handle the joinery and fit-out, while builders handle structural work. Most kitchen renos involve both trades at different stages, and knowing who does what will save you time, money, and headaches.
What Does a Cabinet Maker Do?
A cabinet maker (also called a kitchen joiner or kitchen installer) is responsible for designing, building, and installing your kitchen cabinetry. Their scope typically includes:
- Designing and manufacturing custom or semi-custom kitchen units
- Installing wall and base cabinets, pantry units, and overhead cupboards
- Fitting benchtops (laminate, stone, timber, or solid surface)
- Installing drawers, hinges, handles, and soft-close mechanisms
- Scribing cabinets to fit uneven walls and floors
- Coordinating cutouts for sinks, cooktops, and rangehoods
A skilled cabinet maker will take precise measurements and ensure everything is level, plumb, and square — but they generally work after any structural changes have been completed.
What Does a Builder Handle?
A Licensed Building Practitioner (LBP) or registered builder steps in when your kitchen renovation involves changes to the fabric of the building. This includes:
- Removing or modifying walls (especially load-bearing walls)
- Relocating doorways or windows
- Repairing or replacing subfloor framing
- Structural alterations to support new loads (e.g., a heavy stone benchtop on a weakened floor)
- Weathertightness work if an exterior wall is affected
If a wall is load-bearing, removing it requires engineering input and almost certainly a building consent from your local council. Always check with your council before starting — some minor work may qualify as a Schedule 1 exemption under the Building Act, but this is not something to assume. You can find guidance at MBIE Building Performance.
Restricted Trade Work: Plumbing, Electrical, and Gas
Moving your kitchen sink, dishwasher connection, or gas cooktop involves restricted trade work that must be carried out by licensed professionals — not a builder or cabinet maker.
- Plumbing and drainlaying (relocating the sink waste, water supply lines): Must be done by a licensed plumber registered with the Plumbers Gasfitters & Drainlayers Board.
- Gasfitting (moving or connecting a gas cooktop or oven): Also regulated by the PGDB. Never attempt this yourself.
- Electrical work (new power points, rangehood wiring, oven circuits): Must be carried out by a registered electrician licensed through the Electrical Workers Registration Board. Homeowners should confirm with the Electrical Workers Registration Board what, if any, electrical work they are permitted to do themselves — connecting new circuits or moving switchboard wiring is restricted work.
Safety note: Unlicensed gas or electrical work is illegal in New Zealand and can void your home insurance. Always ask for a Certificate of Compliance from your tradesperson once the work is done.
Who Coordinates Everything?
This is where kitchen renovations can get complicated. You have several options:
Option 1: Hire a Kitchen Designer or Project Manager
Many kitchen companies offer a full design-and-install service and will coordinate the builder, plumber, and electrician on your behalf. This is convenient but may cost more.
Option 2: Act as Your Own Project Manager
You can hire each trade separately — a builder first, then the plumber and electrician, then the cabinet maker for fit-out. This requires good scheduling and communication skills.
Option 3: Use a Building Company
Some building companies offer full kitchen renovation packages and subcontract the joinery and specialist trades themselves.
Whichever route you choose, make sure your cabinet maker and builder communicate early about wall lining finishes, floor heights, and service locations — these details affect how cabinets are installed.
A Typical Kitchen Reno Sequence
| Stage | Who Does It |
|---|---|
| Design and consent (if needed) | Designer, architect, or LBP |
| Demolition and structural changes | Licensed builder / LBP |
| Plumbing rough-in (relocating pipes) | Licensed plumber |
| Electrical rough-in (new circuits) | Registered electrician |
| Wall lining and plastering | Builder or plasterer |
| Cabinet installation | Cabinet maker |
| Benchtop templating and installation | Cabinet maker / stonemason |
| Plumbing fit-off (sink, tapware) | Licensed plumber |
| Electrical fit-off (power points, appliances) | Registered electrician |
| Painting and finishing | Painter or DIY |
Do You Need a Building Consent?
Not every kitchen renovation requires a consent. Replacing cabinets and benchtops in the same location is generally exempt. However, if you're moving walls, relocating plumbing beyond minor adjustments, or making structural changes, a consent is likely required. Check with your local council or visit MBIE Building Performance for guidance on Schedule 1 exemptions. BRANZ also has useful technical resources for homeowners and tradespeople.
When to Call a Professional
Always engage a Licensed Building Practitioner for any structural work — you can verify LBP registration at Licensed Building Practitioners. For joinery, look for an experienced cabinet maker with a solid portfolio and references. A good tradesperson will be upfront about what falls outside their scope and refer you to the right specialist.
You can find qualified cabinet makers, builders, plumbers, and electricians in your area right here on tradedirectory.co.nz.
