Everything You Need to Know About Renovation Costs in Singapore

Are you dreaming of transforming your home but worried about the renovation cost in Singapore? As a homeowner, it’s essential to understand the financial implications of a renovation project before diving in. In this guide, we’ll break down the costs associated with renovating in Singapore, providing you with a clear picture to help you make well-informed decisions. When I embarked on my renovation journey, I quickly realized that managing costs was one of the biggest challenges. The renovation cost in Singapore can be daunting, but with the right approach, it’s manageable. At Elpis Interior, we offer comprehensive renovation and interior design services tailored to your needs. Our personalized designs ensure that your home reflects your unique style and preferences.

Imagine walking into a beautifully renovated home that perfectly matches your vision. However, without proper planning and understanding of the costs, this dream can quickly turn into a financial nightmare. In this guide, we will explore various factors affecting renovation costs in Singapore, from materials to labor, helping you navigate through the complexities of budgeting for your dream home.

By the end of this guide, you will have a comprehensive understanding of the renovation costs in Singapore and how to manage them effectively. Let’s dive into the details and make your renovation journey a smooth and rewarding experience.

Home renovation Singapore

Understanding Renovation Costs in Singapore

Renovation costs in Singapore vary widely and depend on several factors. These factors include the type of renovation, the size of your home, the materials used, and the contractor you choose. Before embarking on any renovation project, it is essential to understand the different types of renovation costs.

Labour Costs

Labour costs are another significant component of the overall cost of house renovation. The cost of labour can vary depending on the complexity of the project, the skills and experience of the workers, and the duration of the project. Here are some examples of labour costs that may be incurred during a renovation project:

1. Carpentry: The cost of carpentry labour can vary depending on the complexity of the work required, such as custom-made cabinets or built-in shelving. The cost can range from SGD 80 to SGD 150 per hour.
2. Electrical and Plumbing: The cost of electrical and plumbing labour can vary depending on the type of work required, such as installing new wiring or pipes or modifying existing ones. The cost can range from SGD 80 to SGD 150 per hour.
3. Painting: The cost of painting labour can vary depending on the size of the area to be painted and the complexity of the work required, such as painting textured walls or ceilings. The cost can range from SGD 20 to SGD 40 per square meter.
4. Tiling: The cost of tiling labour can vary depending on the size of the area to be tiled and the complexity of the work required, such as installing custom-designed tiles or intricate mosaic patterns. The cost can range from SGD 30 to SGD 50 per square meter.
5. General Contractor: The cost of a general contractor can vary depending on the scope of the project and the experience and reputation of the contractor. The cost can range from SGD 10,000 to SGD 50,000, depending on the size of the project.

It’s essential to factor in labour costs when planning a renovation project. Discuss with your contractor or designer the types of labour required for the project and their associated costs. By being aware of labour costs, you can make informed decisions about the scope and duration of the project and ensure that you stay within your budget.

Material Costs

Material costs are a significant component of the overall cost of house renovation. The cost of materials can vary widely depending on the quality, type, and quantity of materials required for the project. Here are some examples of material costs that may be incurred during a renovation project:

1. Flooring: The cost of flooring materials can vary depending on the type of material, such as tiles, hardwood, or laminate. High-end flooring options such as marble or natural stone can be more expensive than standard tiles or laminate.
2. Paint: The cost of paint can vary depending on the brand, quality, and quantity required. Custom colors or specialty paints may also be more expensive.
3. Cabinets and Countertops: The cost of cabinets and countertops can vary depending on the type of material used, such as solid wood, engineered wood, or granite.
4. Electrical and Plumbing fixtures: The cost of electrical and plumbing fixtures such as lighting fixtures, switches, faucets, and showerheads can vary widely depending on the brand and quality.
5. Doors and Windows: The cost of doors and windows can vary depending on the type of material used, such as wood, aluminum, or PVC.
6. Hardware: The cost of hardware such as door handles, hinges, and locks can also add up quickly.

It’s essential to factor in material costs when planning a renovation project. Discuss with your contractor or designer the types of materials required for the project and their associated costs. By being aware of material costs, you can make informed decisions about the quality and type of materials used in your renovation project to stay within your budget.

Miscellaneous Costs

When it comes to house renovation, miscellaneous costs can add up quickly and significantly impact the overall budget. These costs typically include expenses that are not directly related to the actual renovation work but are necessary to complete the project. Here are some examples of miscellaneous costs:

1. Permit fees: Depending on the scope of the renovation work, you may need to obtain permits from the relevant authorities. Permit fees can vary depending on the type of work and the location.
2. Design fees: If you are hiring an interior designer or architect to help you with the renovation, there may be design fees associated with their services.
3. Material delivery fees: Some materials may need to be delivered to your property, and the supplier may charge a delivery fee.
4. Disposal fees: If the renovation work generates a significant amount of waste material, you may need to pay for disposal services.
5. Temporary housing: If the renovation work is extensive and will make your home uninhabitable for a period, you may need to arrange for temporary housing, which can be an added expense.
6. Utility fees: Depending on the scope of the renovation work, you may need to temporarily disconnect or modify utilities such as water, gas, or electricity. There may be fees associated with these changes.

It’s essential to factor in miscellaneous costs when planning a renovation project to avoid any surprises down the line. Make sure to discuss these costs with your contractor or designer and incorporate them into your budget. By being aware of these additional expenses, you can ensure that your renovation project stays on track and within your budget.

Certainly, here is a table that outlines some basic costs of house renovation in Singapore based on the type of property and scope of work:

It’s important to note that these are only basic estimates and that renovation costs can vary widely depending on the specific requirements of each project. It is always advisable to consult with a professional renovation contractor to get a more accurate estimate based on your specific needs and budget.

Factors that Affect Renovation Costs in Singapore

Several factors influence renovation costs in Singapore, including:

Type of Renovation

The type of renovation you plan to undertake will have a significant impact on the overall cost. For example, a full-scale renovation that involves hacking walls and installing new features will cost more than a simple paint job.

Size of Your Home

The size of your home is one of the significant factors that influence the cost of house renovation. Generally, larger homes will require more materials and labour, leading to higher renovation costs. The size of your home can impact several aspects of the renovation project, including the following:

1. Materials: The larger your home, the more materials will be required for the renovation project. For example, larger homes will require more flooring, paint, cabinets, and countertops, which will add to the overall cost of the renovation.
2. Labour: The size of your home can also impact the cost of labour for the renovation project. For example, a larger home will require more carpentry, electrical, plumbing, and painting work, which will increase the overall labour costs.
3. Scope of Work: The size of your home can also impact the scope of the renovation project. For example, a larger home may require more extensive structural changes, such as adding an extra room or building an extension, which will increase the overall cost of the project.

It’s essential to consider the size of your home when planning a renovation project. A larger home will generally require a larger budget for renovation. However, by working closely with your contractor or designer and being aware of the costs of materials and labour, you can make informed decisions about the scope and budget of your renovation project, regardless of the size of your home.

Materials Used

The materials used for house renovation can significantly impact the overall cost of the project. The cost of materials can vary depending on the quality, quantity, and complexity of the work required. Here are some examples of materials used in house renovation and their associated costs:

1. Flooring: The cost of flooring can vary depending on the type of material used, such as tiles, hardwood, or laminate. The cost can range from SGD 3 to SGD 30 per square foot.
2. Cabinets and Countertops: The cost of cabinets and countertops can vary depending on the material used, such as wood, laminate, or stone. The cost can range from SGD 100 to SGD 500 per linear foot for cabinets and SGD 50 to SGD 200 per square foot for countertops.
3. Paint: The cost of paint can vary depending on the quality and brand of the paint used. The cost can range from SGD 20 to SGD 100 per gallon.
4. Plumbing Fixtures: The cost of plumbing fixtures, such as faucets, sinks, and toilets, can vary depending on the brand and quality of the product. The cost can range from SGD 50 to SGD 500 per fixture.
5. Electrical Fixtures: The cost of electrical fixtures, such as light fixtures and ceiling fans, can vary depending on the brand and quality of the product. The cost can range from SGD 20 to SGD 300 per fixture.

It’s important to consider the materials used in a renovation project carefully. Choosing higher-quality materials may increase the overall cost of the project but can lead to a better result and longer-lasting finish. Discuss with your contractor or designer the options available for materials and their associated costs. By being aware of the cost of materials, you can make informed decisions about the scope and budget of your renovation project.

Contractor You Choose

The contractor you choose is another factor that can impact the cost of house renovation. The cost of hiring a contractor can vary significantly depending on their level of experience, the complexity of the project, and their reputation. Here are some things to consider when choosing a contractor:

1. Experience: Contractors with more experience may charge higher fees for their services. However, they may also be able to complete the project more efficiently and effectively, which can save you money in the long run.
2. Complexity of the Project: The more complex the renovation project, the more it may cost to hire a contractor. For example, a project that involves structural changes or extensive plumbing and electrical work will likely require a contractor with specialized skills and equipment, which can drive up the cost.
3. Reputation: Contractors with a good reputation may charge more for their services, but they may also provide higher-quality work and be more reliable in completing the project on time and within budget.
4. Contract Terms: The terms of the contract with the contractor can also impact the cost of the project. For example, if the contract includes a fixed fee for the project, the cost will be more predictable. However, if the contract is based on time and materials, the cost may vary depending on the actual amount of work required.

When choosing a contractor, it’s essential to consider their experience, reputation, and fees carefully. By choosing a contractor who is experienced, has a good reputation, and offers fair and transparent contract terms, you can help ensure that your renovation project is completed successfully and within your budget.

Tips for Managing Renovation Costs in Singapore

1. Plan and budget carefully before starting the renovation project.
2. Get multiple quotes from different contractors and compare prices.
3. Opt for cost-effective materials where possible.
4. Avoid making changes to the original plan mid-way through the renovation process.
5. Negotiate with your contractor to get the best possible deal.

Conclusion

Renovating your home in Singapore can be an exciting yet challenging experience, but with proper planning and budgeting, you can manage costs effectively. We hope this guide has provided you with the necessary insights to make informed decisions about your renovation project. Remember to always do your research, compare prices, and negotiate for the best possible deal.