1. Introduction
Home renovation in Singapore is an exhilarating undertaking yet a complicated project that needs meticulous timing and planning. Whether it is upgrading an old HDB flat or converting a new BTO unit, the homeowners who know the renovation timeline will have their expectations managed and be able to dodge expensive delays. This guide gives the typical renovation duration, phases, and factors that are going to influence your home makeover in 2025.
2. Understanding the Home Renovation Timeline in Singapore
The length of time taken for home renovation is dependent on the property size, the nature of the works, and permissions from the authorities. Generally:
The Resale HDB flat renovation can be completed in 8 to 12 weeks from start to finish.
The New BTO flat renovation generally follows a similar schedule but begins with mandatory defect checks before the main renovation.
The Minor cosmetic upgrades like painting or flooring can be completed in 1 to 4 weeks.
The Major renovations that include electrical rewiring, removing walls, or custom-made carpentry can take anywhere between 8 weeks and 6 months.
The main factors that will impact your renovation timeline are the time taken for permit approval, the contractor’s workload, the complexity of carpentry, and the schedule of material deliveries.
3. Initial Planning and Preparation (2-6 weeks)
Planning work takes up a big part of the time invested before the physical renovation work starts:
The first thing is to make a mood board so you can see your design theme, color palette, and layout ideas.
Then, it is time to make a list of functional needs and priorities. Do you want a large kitchen, a home office, or room for the storage?
Next is the engagement of an interior designer or contractor to work on your ideas and provide plans along with 3D renderings.
Finally, you will need to apply for HDB Renovation Permit, which is necessary for hacking or demolition works to begin. Depending on the scope, permit processing may take anywhere from a few days to a week.
Generally, this stage lasts about 4 to 6 weeks; however, if you have well-defined concepts and quick permit approvals, it can be organized even quicker.
4. Site Works and Construction (6-12 weeks)
With the plans and permits in hand, the on-site renovation goes through a series of stages, week by week, for 6 to 12 weeks, starting with the first week of demolition.
Week 1: Preliminary & Demolition Works
Laying protective sheets to avoid damage.
Hacking floors and walls, taking out old fixtures.
Disposal of the removed materials.
Initial rewiring and mechanical upgrades if necessary.
5. Weeks 2-3: Delivery of Materials & Plumbing Works
Tiles, laminates, and other construction essentials delivery.
Plumbing installations including hiding pipes.
6. Weeks 3-5: Electrical, Tiling, and Ceiling Works
Electrical wiring installation with light points and fixtures.
Floor and wall tiling- laying and cementing.
Ceiling structure and aircon trunking.
7. Weeks 6-7: Carpentry Measurement & Painting
On-site measurements for custom-made carpentry such as wardrobes and cabinets will be carried out.
Painting walls and ceilings, applying sealers and coats.
8. Weeks 8-12: Carpentry Installation, Final Touch-ups & Cleaning
Putting together all woodwork fixtures.
Final paint application and putting up decorative lights.
Thorough cleaning and final inspection walkthrough with interior designer or contractor before handover.
9. Handover and Moving In
A thorough inspection after construction will ensure that all works are up to your expectations. The minor defects or touch-ups will be done quickly. When satisfied, you can schedule furniture delivery and move in.
10. Additional Factors Affecting Renovation Timelines
Scope of Work: Extensive renovation such as wall hacking, electrical rewiring, or custom designs will take a longer time.
Permit Delays: Complicated approvals can lengthen the waiting time.
Contractor Availability: Delays can occur if contractors are busy with other projects.
Material Sourcing: The production and delivery of specialty materials or custom carpentry may take place
The planning buffer period deserves a few weeks.
11. Conclusion
In Singapore, remodeling of resale HDB flats or BTO units usually lasts from 8 to 12 weeks, minor projects are done earlier while major renovations might take several months. The success of such projects relies on good planning, timely permits, skilled contractors, and realistic expectations. By knowing the stages and realistic timescales involved, the homeowners can have a smoother renovation and enjoy a beautifully transformed house.
