How to plan a house renovation in Singapore? (Landed house)

How to Plan a House Renovation in Singapore with She Interior

Renovating a house in Singapore can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it also requires careful planning and thorough preparation. Whether you’re looking to revamp your HDB flat or renovate your private residential property, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate the process. From initial planning and budgeting to design considerations and material selection, we’ll cover essential steps and tips to make your home renovation a seamless and rewarding experience.

Key Takeaways

1. Understand Renovation Regulations and Permits
2. Set a Realistic Budget
3. Create a Detailed Plan
4. Choose the Right Contractor
5. Select Materials and Furnishings
6. Execute the Renovation
7. Post-Renovation Cleaning and Inspection

Step 1: Understand Renovation Regulations and Permits

Before diving into your renovation project, familiarize yourself with the specific regulations and permits governing home renovations in Singapore. For HDB flats, refer to the HDB renovation guidelines, which outline the dos and don’ts for alterations. Private residential properties may have their own set of guidelines and restrictions. Ensuring compliance with these regulations will help you avoid potential fines and ensure a smooth renovation process.

HDB Renovation Permit: What is It?

The HDB Renovation Permit ensures that the proposed renovation works comply with HDB’s guidelines, regulations, and structural requirements. It helps prevent disruptions, inconveniences, and potential damage to the common property and neighboring units during the process.

When Do You Need One?

• Structural Alterations
• Electrical Works
• Plumbing Works
• Flooring Works
• Ceiling Works
• Air Conditioning Works
• Window Works

How to Apply?

1. Engage an HDB Licensed Renovation Contractor: Work with a licensed HDB renovation contractor to carry out the renovation work. The contractor will obtain the necessary permits and approvals before the renovation begins.
2. Share Your Renovation Vision with the Contractor: Discuss your renovation plans with the contractor and seek their advice on the project’s feasibility. They can guide the requirements and limitations set by the Housing and Development Board.
3. Wait for Approval from HDB: Once submitted, the HDB will review the renovation application and may request additional information or clarification if needed. This usually takes about three weeks.
4. Display the HDB Renovation Permit: Once you have received the renovation permit from the HDB, display it prominently at the site. This will allow the HDB’s officers to verify that the renovation works are carried out in compliance with the approved scope and duration.

Step 2: Set a Realistic Budget

Setting a realistic budget is essential to avoid overspending and financial stress during your renovation. Begin by assessing your financial resources and determining how much you can comfortably allocate to the project. Consider factors such as material costs, labor fees, and unforeseen expenses. Research financing options if needed, such as renovation loans, and evaluate the repayment terms and interest rates to find the best fit for your financial situation.

Step 3: Create a Detailed Plan

Creating a detailed plan is crucial to ensure the success of your renovation project. Outline all the changes you want to make to your home, including any structural changes. Consider the design phase of your renovation and decide on the style and look you want to achieve. Hiring an interior designer can help you create a renovation plan that meets your needs and budget, ensuring that everything looks cohesive and stylish.

Important Aspects of a Detailed Plan:

1. Vision and Goals: Define what you want to achieve with your renovation. Are you looking to create more space, modernize your home, or improve functionality?
2. Design Style: Choose a design style that suits your taste and complements the overall theme of your home.
3. Structural Changes: Identify any structural changes that need to be made, such as knocking down walls or adding new rooms.
4. Functional Improvements: Plan for functional improvements like better storage solutions, energy-efficient lighting, and improved ventilation.
5. Timeline: Set a realistic timeline for the renovation project. Keep in mind that some stages may take longer than others.

Step 4: Choose the Right Contractor

Choosing the right contractor is crucial to the success of your renovation project. You need to find a contractor who is reliable, experienced, and has a good track record. Ensure that they have all the necessary permits and approvals to carry out the renovation work. Ask for recommendations, explore portfolios, and meet with multiple designers to find one who understands your style, requirements, and budget. During the selection process, request detailed quotes that break down costs line-by-line.

Tips for Choosing the Right Contractor:

1. Check Licenses and Certifications: Ensure the contractor is licensed and certified to perform the necessary renovation works.
2. Review Portfolios: Look at the contractor’s previous projects to see if their work meets your standards.
3. Ask for References: Speak to previous clients to get feedback on their experiences with the contractor.
4. Compare Quotes: Get detailed quotes from multiple contractors and compare them to find the best value for your budget.
5. Interview Contractors: Meet with potential contractors to discuss your project and ensure they understand your vision.

Step 5: Select Materials and Furnishings

Selecting the right materials and furnishings is an essential part of the renovation process. Visit physical stores to see and feel materials in person, compare color swatches, and evaluate the quality and durability of materials. For instance, when considering vinyl flooring, it’s important to walk on it to get a sense of its comfort and resilience. Bringing samples home can help you visualize how different materials will look together and make more informed decisions.

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Material Selection Tips:

1. Durability: Choose materials that are durable and suitable for your lifestyle.
2. Aesthetics: Ensure that the materials complement your design style and overall theme.
3. Maintenance: Opt for materials that are easy to maintain and clean.
4. Budget: Select materials that fit within your budget without compromising on quality.
5. Environmental Impact: Consider eco-friendly materials that have a lower environmental impact.

Step 6: Execute the Renovation

When you have secured your permits and approvals, it’s time to begin the actual renovation process. This involves handling permits and approvals, managing construction and renovation works, and navigating delays and adjustments.

Managing Construction and Renovation Works:

• Ensure a clear plan and schedule.
• Communicate regularly with your contractors to avoid any miscommunication or delays.
• Be flexible and prepared for potential delays due to unforeseen circumstances.

Key Renovation Areas and Timelines:

• Full Home Makeover: 6-8 weeks
• Bathroom Transformation: 2 weeks
• Kitchen Revamp: 4-8 weeks
• Quick Fixer-Uppers: A few days

Step 7: Post-Renovation Cleaning and Inspection

Once the renovation works are completed, ensure thorough post-renovation cleaning to deal with dust, debris, and other construction residues. Inspect the works thoroughly before making the final payment to ensure that all renovation works have been completed to your satisfaction and that any issues have been addressed.

Post-Renovation Cleaning Tips:

1. Start from the Top: Begin cleaning from the topmost areas, such as ceilings and light fixtures, and gradually work your way down to the floors.
2. High-Touch Surfaces: Scrub and disinfect high-touch surfaces like doorknobs, switches, and handles.
3. Curtains and Linens: Clean curtains and linens with suitable cleaning products.
4. Protective Equipment: Use appropriate protective equipment to ensure safety while removing dust or renovation debris.
5. Professional Cleaning: Consider engaging a post-renovation cleaning service to handle heavy cleaning tasks.

Ready to transform your home into the space of your dreams? Contact She Interior today to get started on your renovation journey. Our team of experts is here to provide you with a personalized consultation and guide you through every step of the process. Don’t wait – make your dream home a reality with She Interior!

How Can She Interior Help You

If you want your home to be just as beautiful, then look no further. Book an online consultation with She Interior today. Have some comments or suggestions you’d like to share with us?

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I'm renovating my houseCONDOMINIUMLANDEDCOMMERCIAL

I will collect my key in3 months6 months

My place isNEWOLD

Preferred time of contactMorningAfternoonEvening

Renovation budgetBetween 20,000 – 30,000Between 30,000 – 50,000Budget more than 50,000

Preferred styleCONTEMPORARYCOUNTRYINDUSTRIALMEDITERRANIANMINIMALISTMODERNMUJINATURALSCANDINAVIANFUTURISTAURBAN FARMHOUSE DESIGNVICTORIAN

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I hire an interior design firm when I can manage the renovation myself?

Sure, some homeowners prefer to DIY or coordinate with contractors directly—but here’s the thing: renovation in Singapore isn’t just about choosing tiles or paint. It’s about permits, HDB guidelines, space planning, lighting, and hundreds of decisions that can quickly become overwhelming. Hiring a firm means having a team that takes care of everything—project management, technical compliance, and design synergy—so you avoid costly mistakes and delays. More time for you, less stress, and a stunning result that looks like it came from a magazine? That’s a win.

Isn’t hiring an ID firm expensive?

It depends on who you work with. Not all ID firms are out to burn your wallet. A good firm will help you make smarter, cost-effective decisions that stay within budget without cutting corners. Plus, our transparent pricing means no hidden costs—just value for every dollar spent. Sometimes, spending wisely now saves you from overspending later.

What if I already have my own ideas or moodboard? Will the ID still help?

Absolutely—we love when homeowners bring their vision to the table! Think of us as your creative partner. We take your inspiration and elevate it with layout planning, material sourcing, and cohesive styling to ensure it works in real life, not just on Pinterest. Our job isn’t to override your ideas, but to bring them to life beautifully and practically.

How long will the renovation take if I hire an ID firm?

With an ID firm, timelines are managed professionally. While every project varies, having a team to coordinate with vendors, contractors, and suppliers keeps everything on track. You won’t have to chase after multiple parties—we do the heavy lifting, so you can move in faster and smoother.

How do I know if an ID firm is reliable?

Great question. Look out for HDB-licensed firms, transparent reviews, detailed portfolios, and clear contracts. A reliable ID firm won’t just promise a good-looking home—they’ll prove it with process, professionalism, and people who genuinely care about your home. Ask about past projects and how they handle after-sales service. That’s where true reliability shows.

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