Before the carpenter frames or re-frames walls. Anything recessed or wall-hung. The carpenter frames to the actual product.
The carpenter frames the opening to the product. A different cabinet later means re-framing.
Ask: Is the cabinet in hand, or its spec sheet final? The framer needs the real size, not an estimate.
It is framed now and tiled later, so its size should suit whole tiles. source
Ask: Is the niche sized to whole tiles, clear of the mixer, and between studs? A common base height is 900 to 1100 mm. Choose it here
The frame sets the pan height, the button height and the wall depth.
Ask: Which frame, and does it suit your pan and your wall depth?
Wall-hung items need a frame or heavy blocking behind them.
Ask: What is hanging off the wall, and what does its install sheet ask for behind it?
A floor-mounted filler can't be added once the floor is poured or screeded. source
Ask: If the filler comes up through the floor, is its position fixed now?
Openings are framed now. Where livable housing rules apply, doors need an 820 mm clear opening. source
Ask: Which doors are sliders, and do the openings meet any rule that applies to you?
A sill that clips the splashback or the tap is a framing fix, not a tiling one.
Ask: Does every sill clear the bench, splashback and taps under it?
The duct runs through the ceiling or wall before linings. Over gas, the hood must be at least 650 mm above the cooktop. source
Ask: Where does the duct go, and is the hood at least 650 mm above a gas cooktop?
Prompts, not rules. Most choices can wait; these can't, because a later trade builds to them. Code items cite their source; states adopt parts of the NCC differently, so check yours. Your builder, trades, certifier and each product's install sheet decide. Download the list (JSON, CC BY 4.0).
