Renovation cost calculator (Singapore)

By MoneyBees

Estimate your Singapore renovation cost by property type, size and scope, with a category-by-category breakdown, a realistic price range and a contingency buffer.

Calculator

Your home

Some contractors quote before GST

Typical estimate

$48,000

for this scope

Likely range

$40,800

up to $57,600

Budget with 10% buffer

$52,800

recommended set-aside

Where the money goes

CategoryShareEstimate
Carpentry (kitchen, wardrobes)30%$14,400
Masonry & tiling18%$8,640
Flooring9%$4,320
Electrical & wiring9%$4,320
Plumbing & sanitary7%$3,360
False ceiling & partition6%$2,880
Painting5%$2,400
Glass, doors & misc6%$2,880
Design & professional fee10%$4,800
Total100%$48,000

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Average renovation cost by property type (2026)

Typical all-in ranges for a standard scope; premium finishes and full custom carpentry push to the top of each range.

Property typeTypical renovation cost
BTO flat (new)S$36,000 - S$82,000
Resale HDB flatS$51,000 - S$97,000
New condoS$40,000 - S$52,000
Resale condoS$80,000 - S$105,000

Indicative 2026 market ranges (Qanvast/industry surveys); your quote depends on size, scope and materials. Add 9% GST if your contractor is GST-registered.

Renovation cost notes (2025/2026)

  • A new BTO costs less to renovate than a resale flat, which often needs hacking, rewiring and new plumbing. Resale and older condos sit at the higher end.
  • Carpentry is usually the biggest item (kitchen cabinets and wardrobes), followed by masonry and tiling, together around half the budget.
  • Always keep a 10 to 15% contingency for surprises and upgrades. Get at least three quotes and check the contractor is HDB-registered for HDB flats.
  • A renovation loan is capped at $30,000 or 6 times your monthly income, whichever is lower, over up to 5 years. Compare it against paying from savings.
  • These are estimates to budget with, not quotes. Your final cost depends on your design, materials and contractor.

Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to renovate a flat in Singapore?

Roughly $35,000 to $62,000 for a 4-room BTO and more for a resale flat or condo, depending on scope. A new BTO is cheaper because it needs less hacking and rewiring. Use the calculator above for your property type, size and scope.

What is the most expensive part of a renovation?

Carpentry, mainly the kitchen cabinets and wardrobes, is usually the single biggest cost at about 25 to 40% of the budget, followed by masonry and tiling. Together they often make up around half the total.

Why does a resale flat cost more to renovate than a BTO?

Resale and older flats often need hacking of old fixtures, full rewiring, new plumbing and waterproofing, and overhaul of the kitchen and bathrooms. A new BTO comes with a usable baseline, so you spend mostly on carpentry and finishes.

How much contingency should I budget?

Set aside an extra 10 to 15% on top of your quote for surprises, upgrades and price changes. The calculator shows a recommended budget with a 10% buffer.

Can I take a renovation loan?

Yes. A renovation loan is capped at $30,000 or six times your monthly income, whichever is lower, repaid over up to five years. Compare the interest against paying from savings before committing.

How much does it cost to renovate a 5-room BTO?

Typically about S$45,000 to S$70,000 for a 5-room BTO with a standard scope (carpentry, some built-ins, finishes), and more for a premium or full-custom job. A resale 5-room runs higher because of hacking, rewiring and new bathrooms. Enter your scope above for a tailored range.

Is GST included in renovation quotes?

Only if your contractor or interior design firm is GST-registered (GST is 9% in 2026). Smaller contractors below the registration threshold may not charge it. Always ask whether a quote is GST-inclusive so you can compare like for like. The calculator lets you add GST.

What renovation costs do people forget to budget for?

Common forgotten items: haulage and debris disposal, an MCST renovation deposit (for condos), professional cleaning, electrical and aircon trunking, window grilles, curtains and blinds, lighting, and a 10-15% contingency for surprises. These can add several thousand dollars.

Keep exploring

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.

Junxiong-WFG Organisation is an authorised representative of AIA Financial Advisers Private Limited (Reg. No. 201715016G).