How Much Do Renovations Cost In Singapore?

Embarking on your renovation journey can be an exhilarating endeavour. However, beneath the excitement lies the daunting question that plagues every homeowner: How much will it all cost?

Renovation costs in Singapore are influenced by a myriad of factors, including property type, size, scope of work, material quality, and professional services. Whether renovating an HDB flat, a condominium, or a landed property, understanding these variables is essential for effective budget planning and decision-making.

Other various factors such as the size of the property, the extent of renovations needed, the quality of materials used, and the complexity of the work involved will also affect your renovation costs.

However, to give you a general idea, here are some pointers that you would need to take note of;

Understanding Renovation Costs

Type of Property

HDB Flats: Renovating HDB flats typically involves adhering to guidelines set by the Housing and Development Board. These guidelines regulate structural alterations, ensuring safety and uniformity across HDB estates. Therefore, renovation costs for HDB flats can be relatively lower compared to private properties due to restrictions on certain modifications.

Condominiums: Condo renovations offer more flexibility but may come with additional rules and regulations imposed by management committees or management corporations. These may include restrictions on noise, working hours, and the use of common areas. Consequently, renovation costs for condos can vary based on compliance requirements and the extent of customization desired.

Landed Properties: Renovating landed properties, such as terrace houses, semi-detached houses, or bungalows, offers the most freedom in terms of design and layout changes. However, this freedom often translates to higher renovation costs, as customization and luxury finishes are more common in landed properties.

Size and Scope of Work

The size of the property and the scope of work significantly impact renovation costs. A small studio apartment will naturally cost less to renovate compared to a sprawling penthouse. Similarly, minor cosmetic upgrades will be more affordable than extensive structural changes or additions.

Common renovation works include carpentry, electrical and plumbing upgrades, flooring installation, painting, and installation of fixtures and fittings. The complexity of these tasks, as well as the quality of materials chosen, will influence the overall cost.

Quality of Materials and Finishes

The choice of materials and finishes plays a crucial role in determining renovation costs. Opting for premium materials such as marble countertops, solid wood flooring, or designer fixtures will significantly increase expenses compared to more budget-friendly alternatives.

Balancing quality with budget is essential. While it’s tempting to splurge on luxurious finishes, it’s important to prioritize durability, functionality, and aesthetics within your financial constraints.

Contractor Fees and Professional Services

Engaging renovation contractors, interior designers, architects, or project managers adds to the overall cost of renovations. These professionals provide expertise, project management, and coordination services, ensuring a smooth and efficient renovation process.

Contractor fees may be fixed or based on a percentage of the total project cost. It’s advisable to obtain multiple quotes, review portfolios, and conduct thorough background checks before engaging any professionals.

After understanding the size and scope of work, we move on to understand the budgetary requirements for your renovation works. 

Basic Renovation

For small apartments or HDB flats: SGD 10,000 to SGD 20,000

For larger apartments or condominiums: SGD 20,000 to SGD 40,000

Moderate Renovation

For small apartments or HDB flats: SGD 20,000 to SGD 40,000

For larger apartments or condominiums: SGD 40,000 to SGD 80,000

Extensive Renovation

For small apartments or HDB flats: SGD 40,000 to SGD 80,000+

For larger apartments or condominiums: SGD 80,000 to SGD 150,000+

These are just rough estimates, and actual costs can vary significantly based on factors like the quality of finishes, customization, additional features like smart home systems, and hiring professionals such as interior designers or architects.

Tips for Managing Renovation Costs

Set a Realistic Budget

Establish a budget based on your financial capacity and prioritize essential renovations while keeping room for contingencies.

Plan Ahead

Thoroughly plan the renovation project, detailing requirements, timelines, and budget allocations to avoid costly delays or oversights.

Obtain Multiple Quotes

Seek quotations from multiple contractors or renovation firms to compare prices, services, and quality.

Prioritize Essentials

Focus on essential renovations that improve functionality and livability before considering optional upgrades or luxury finishes.

Communicate Clearly

Maintain open communication with contractors and professionals to ensure alignment on project objectives, timelines, and budgetary constraints.

Factor in Contingencies

Allocate a buffer for unforeseen expenses, such as structural repairs, permit fees, or material shortages, to avoid budget overruns.

It’s advisable to obtain multiple quotes from renovation contractors or firms, discuss your specific requirements and budget constraints with them, and conduct thorough research before embarking on any renovation project. Additionally, always remember to account for miscellaneous costs and potential unforeseen expenses during the renovation process.

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