HDB Renovation Cost Calculator 2025
Quick Cost Estimates
Calculate Your HDB Renovation Budget
Get instant estimates based on your flat type and renovation scope. Prices updated monthly from real contractor quotes.
HDB Renovation Calculator
Select your flat type and renovation items
Select Renovation Items
Hidden Costs to Consider
Disclaimer: These are estimated costs based on market averages as of August 2025. Actual prices may vary depending on specific requirements, materials chosen, and contractor rates. Always get multiple quotes before committing.
Planning your HDB renovation in 2025? With inflation and material costs constantly changing, getting an accurate budget is crucial. This comprehensive guide breaks down every cost component with real contractor prices, helping you avoid budget overruns that affect 67% of homeowners.
Complete Cost Breakdown by HDB Type
3-Room HDB (60-65 sqm)
| Work Item | Basic | Standard | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flooring (Vinyl/Tiles) | $2,500 | $4,000 | $6,000 |
| Kitchen Cabinet | $2,000 | $3,500 | $5,500 |
| Toilet Renovation | $3,000 | $4,500 | $6,000 |
| Painting | $800 | $1,200 | $1,800 |
| Electrical Works | $1,500 | $2,200 | $3,500 |
| Carpentry (Wardrobes) | $3,000 | $5,000 | $8,000 |
| False Ceiling | $1,200 | $2,000 | $3,500 |
| Doors (3 bedrooms) | $1,800 | $2,700 | $4,200 |
| Window Grilles | $1,200 | $1,800 | $2,500 |
| TOTAL | $19,000 | $30,900 | $46,500 |
4-Room HDB (85-90 sqm)
| Work Item | Basic | Standard | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flooring (Vinyl/Tiles) | $3,500 | $5,500 | $8,500 |
| Kitchen Cabinet | $2,500 | $4,500 | $7,000 |
| 2 Toilet Renovations | $6,000 | $9,000 | $12,000 |
| Painting | $1,200 | $1,800 | $2,500 |
| Electrical Works | $2,000 | $3,000 | $4,500 |
| Carpentry (Wardrobes) | $4,000 | $7,000 | $12,000 |
| False Ceiling | $1,800 | $3,000 | $5,000 |
| Doors (4 bedrooms) | $2,400 | $3,600 | $5,600 |
| Window Grilles | $1,600 | $2,400 | $3,500 |
| TOTAL | $25,000 | $39,800 | $60,600 |
5-Room/Executive (110+ sqm)
| Work Item | Basic | Standard | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flooring (Vinyl/Tiles) | $4,500 | $7,000 | $11,000 |
| Kitchen Cabinet | $3,000 | $5,500 | $9,000 |
| 2 Toilet Renovations | $6,500 | $10,000 | $14,000 |
| Painting | $1,500 | $2,200 | $3,200 |
| Electrical Works | $2,500 | $3,800 | $5,500 |
| Carpentry (Wardrobes) | $5,000 | $9,000 | $15,000 |
| False Ceiling | $2,500 | $4,000 | $6,500 |
| Doors (5 bedrooms) | $3,000 | $4,500 | $7,000 |
| Window Grilles | $2,000 | $3,000 | $4,500 |
| Living Room Feature | $1,500 | $3,000 | $5,000 |
| TOTAL | $32,000 | $52,000 | $80,700 |
Hidden Costs Most Homeowners Miss
Warning: These hidden costs can add 15-25% to your renovation budget. Always factor them in to avoid financial stress mid-renovation.
Pre-Renovation Costs
- HDB Permit Application$200-$500
- Protection Works (Lift, Corridor)$300-$500
- Hacking & Disposal$800-$2,000
- Temporary Storage$200-$500/month
Post-Renovation Costs
- Deep Cleaning$300-$600
- Touch-up Works$200-$500
- Defects Rectification$500-$1,500
- Contingency (10-20%)$2,000-$8,000
BTO vs Resale: Cost Differences
| Aspect | BTO Flat | Resale Flat |
|---|---|---|
| Average Total Cost | $20,000 - $35,000 | $35,000 - $55,000 |
| Flooring | Already provided | Overlay/Hack & retile |
| Doors | Basic doors provided | Usually need replacement |
| Electrical | New wiring | May need rewiring |
| Toilets | Basic fittings provided | Full renovation needed |
| Kitchen | Service yard provided | May need total makeover |
| Timeline | 4-6 weeks | 6-10 weeks |
Typical Payment Schedule
Pro Tip: Never pay more than 30% upfront. Legitimate contractors follow progressive payment schedules tied to work completion milestones.
15 Ways to Save on Your Renovation
Smart Material Choices
- ✓Choose vinyl over tiles (save $2,000-$3,000)
- ✓Overlay instead of hacking tiles (save $1,500)
- ✓Laminate vs solid surface tops (save $1,000)
- ✓Buy appliances during sales (save 20-30%)
Design Strategies
- ✓Keep existing layout (save $3,000-$5,000)
- ✓Paint instead of wallpaper (save $800)
- ✓Open shelving vs upper cabinets (save $1,200)
- ✓DIY simple tasks like painting (save $500)
Contractor Package Comparison
| Package Type | Price Range | What's Included | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
Basic Package Essential renovations only | $15,000 - $25,000 | Flooring, painting, basic electrical, toilet upgrade | Budget-conscious, rental properties |
Standard Package Comfortable living upgrade | $25,000 - $45,000 | All basic + kitchen cabinet, wardrobes, false ceiling | Young couples, first-time homeowners |
Premium Package Designer finish | $45,000 - $80,000 | All standard + feature walls, smart home, premium materials | Families, luxury living |
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does HDB renovation typically take?
Typical timelines:
- • 3-room HDB: 4-6 weeks
- • 4-room HDB: 6-8 weeks
- • 5-room HDB: 8-10 weeks
- • Add 2-3 weeks for major hacking works
Do I need HDB permits for renovation?
Yes, you need permits for:
- • Hacking of walls (non-structural)
- • Toilet renovations
- • Flooring works
- • Window/grille replacement
Your contractor usually handles permit applications.
Can I renovate immediately after getting keys?
For BTO: Yes, you can start immediately after key collection.
For Resale: Check if seller has ongoing renovation permit. If yes, wait for it to expire or get it transferred.
Remember: Renovation works are only allowed Monday-Saturday, 9am-6pm (excluding public holidays).
What's the difference between ID and contractor?
Interior Designer (ID):
- • Provides design concepts and 3D drawings
- • Handles project management
- • Costs 10-20% more
Direct Contractor:
- • Executes renovation works
- • You manage design and coordination
- • More cost-effective
How do I avoid renovation scams?
Red flags to watch for:
- • Asking for >50% upfront payment
- • No proper contract or quotation
- • Unusually low prices (30% below market)
- • Cannot show past projects
- • Not registered with HDB/BCA
Always verify contractor credentials at HDB's website.
Ready to Start Your Renovation?
Get quotes from verified HDB contractors. Compare prices, read reviews, and choose the best.