Renovation checklist (Singapore)
By MoneyBees
A free, interactive Singapore renovation checklist. Track every step from budgeting and quotes to permits, carpentry and the final defects inspection, saved on your device.
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Your progress
Your ticks are saved on this device only. A typical HDB renovation runs about 8 to 12 weeks.
1. Budget & planning
2. Quotes & appointment
3. Defects check / handover
4. Design & 3D
5. Permits
6. Hacking & demolition
7. Masonry, plumbing & electrical
8. Carpentry
9. Painting
10. Sanitary, lighting & fittings
11. Deep clean
12. Handover, defects & moving in
HDB renovation permit & timing rules
| Rule | What to know |
|---|---|
| Permit approval | Works start only after approval |
| Deadline to finish | ~1 month (resale) / ~3 months (new BTO) |
| Needs a permit | Hacking, plumbing, floor finishes, major works |
| No permit needed | Painting, built-in carpentry, light fittings |
| Renovation hours | General works Mon-Sat 9am-6pm; noisy works Mon-Fri 9am-5pm only |
| New flat toilets | Wait 3 years from block completion before replacing toilet floor and wall finishes |
| Unauthorised works | Reinstatement at your cost + a fine of up to S$5,000 |
Your HDB-registered contractor applies for the permit. Exact hours and rules vary by town council. Confirm with HDB before starting.
Renovate smarter
- Get at least three quotes and compare them line by line. For HDB flats, only use an HDB-registered renovation contractor.
- Carpentry and tiling are usually the biggest costs. Budget them first with our renovation cost calculator.
- Keep a 10 to 15% contingency, and never pay the full amount before the work is done and defects are fixed.
- If you are also getting married or buying a flat, line it all up with the tools below.
Sources
Figures checked 5 Oct 2026.
- HDB: important information on renovations (hours, deadlines, fines; updated 24 Jul 2026)
- HDB: renovation guidelines for building works (updated 2 Sep 2026)
- HDB: application for a renovation permit (updated 24 Jul 2026)
- HDB: rectification of defects in new flats (updated 6 May 2026)
- DBS: renovation loan (up to 6x monthly income or S$30,000)
Frequently asked questions
What are the steps in a renovation?
Budgeting and planning, getting quotes and appointing a contractor, the defects check (for a BTO), design and 3D, permits, hacking, masonry/plumbing/electrical, tiling, carpentry, painting, fittings, deep clean, and the final handover and defects inspection. This checklist walks you through each one.
How long does a renovation take in Singapore?
A full HDB or condo renovation typically takes about 8 to 12 weeks, and a resale flat can take a little longer because of hacking and rewiring. Light cosmetic work can be done in a few weeks.
Do I need an HDB permit to renovate?
Yes, for most HDB renovation works your HDB-registered contractor applies for the permit on your behalf. Noisy works such as hacking are allowed only Mon-Fri 9am-5pm (not on weekends, public holidays or the eves of 5 major holidays), and the toilet floor and wall finishes in a new block must not be replaced for 3 years from its completion.
ID firm or direct contractor?
An interior design firm manages the whole project and design for a fee; a direct contractor is cheaper but you coordinate more yourself. Either way, get at least three quotes and check the contractor is HDB-registered for HDB flats.
Does my progress save?
Yes. Your ticked steps are stored in your browser on this device, so you can return any time. Use the reset button to start over.
How long does an HDB renovation permit take?
Your HDB-registered contractor applies for the permit. HDB does not state a processing time on its renovation pages, so apply early and plan it into your timeline. Permitted works start only after approval, and you must finish within 1 month for an existing block or 3 months for a newly completed one.
What renovation works need HDB approval, and what doesn't?
Structural and major works (hacking walls, moving the kitchen, plumbing and floor finishes) need a permit. Cosmetic works like painting, installing built-in carpentry or changing light fittings generally don't. When in doubt, your contractor or HDB can confirm before work starts.
What's the penalty for unauthorised renovation works?
HDB can require you to reinstate the flat at your own cost and impose a fine of up to S$5,000. Renovation hours are also restricted (noisy works Mon-Fri 9am-5pm only, none on weekends or public holidays), so use a registered contractor and get the permit.
Keep exploring
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These calculators provide general estimates for educational purposes only and are not personalised financial advice. Results may rely on rates and rules that change over time, so verify against official sources (IRAS, CPF Board, HDB, MAS) or consult a licensed financial adviser before making decisions.
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