Renovation Timeline Week by Week: Complete 2026 Guide
A typical Singapore home renovation takes 8-12 weeks from permit approval to completion. Weeks 1-2 cover demolition and structural work, weeks 3-5 focus on electrical and plumbing rough-in, weeks 6-8 handle tiling and carpentry installation, while weeks 9-12 complete painting, final fittings, and cleaning. HDB flats average 8-10 weeks, while condos and landed properties extend to 10-14 weeks depending on scope.
Pre-Renovation Phase: Setting the Foundation
Permit Applications and Approvals
Before any work begins, permit approval is mandatory. HDB renovations require submission through the HDB InfoWEB system, with approval typically taking 3-5 working days for minor works and 2-3 weeks for major alterations involving structural changes. Condo renovations need MCST approval, which varies by management but generally takes 1-2 weeks for standard renovations.
Final Planning and Material Orders
Once permits are approved, the final week before work starts involves confirming all material deliveries, finalising electrical and plumbing layouts, and scheduling specialist trades. All tiles, sanitary ware, electrical fittings, and custom carpentry materials should be ordered and delivery scheduled to align with the renovation phases. Any delays in material delivery will push back the entire timeline.
Weeks 1-2: Demolition and Structural Work
Week 1: Demolition and Hacking
The renovation officially begins with demolition work. This includes removing existing flooring, hacking wall tiles, dismantling old kitchen cabinets and built-ins, and removing unwanted partition walls (where approved). For HDB flats, demolition typically takes 2-3 days. Landed properties with extensive structural changes may require the full week. All debris must be properly disposed of through licensed waste management companies.
Week 2: Structural Modifications
Any approved structural work happens in week 2. This includes building new partition walls, creating openings between rooms, reinforcing floors for heavy installations, and installing structural elements for suspended ceilings. Concrete work requires 7 days curing time before subsequent trades can begin, making this phase critical for timeline adherence.
Weeks 3-5: Infrastructure and Rough-In Work
Week 3: Electrical Rough-In
Licensed electricians install new electrical conduits, relocate switch and socket points, upgrade distribution boards, and run cables for lighting circuits. All electrical work must comply with Singapore's SS CP5 electrical code. New circuits for air-conditioning, kitchen appliances, and additional power points are installed during this phase. Electrical rough-in must be completed before any wall plastering begins.
Week 4: Plumbing Rough-In
Plumbing work involves relocating water supply pipes, installing new drainage systems, repositioning waste outlets for toilets and basins, and rough-in work for kitchen plumbing. All plumbing modifications must comply with PUB requirements. Water supply disruption is typically limited to 1-2 days during pipe connection work. Pressure testing of all new plumbing lines is conducted before covering with walls.
Week 5: Aircon and Mechanical Works
Aircon trunking installation, split unit piping, and exhaust fan ducting are completed in week 5. Gas piping for cooking ranges (where applicable) and built-in appliance connections are also installed. All mechanical systems undergo testing to ensure proper function before concealment within walls or ceilings.
Weeks 6-8: Surface Works and Major Installations
Week 6: Floor and Wall Tiling
Tiling work begins with floor preparation, waterproofing for wet areas, and systematic tile installation starting from wet areas and moving to dry areas. Bathroom and kitchen tiling typically takes priority. Large format tiles and complex patterns require additional time. Tile adhesive needs 24-48 hours curing time before grouting can commence.
Week 7: Carpentry Installation
Custom built-in furniture installation begins in week 7. This includes kitchen cabinets, wardrobes, TV consoles, study tables, and storage solutions. Pre-fabricated items from our Kaki Bukit factory are delivered and installed systematically. Cabinet hardware installation and door adjustments follow cabinet installation.
Week 8: Countertops and Built-in Appliances
Kitchen countertops (granite, quartz, or solid surface) are template-measured in week 6-7 and installed in week 8. Built-in appliances including ovens, hobs, range hoods, and dishwashers are installed and tested. Bathroom vanity tops and basin installations also occur during this phase.
Renovation Timeline by Property Type
| Property Type | Duration | Key Considerations | Typical Cost Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3-Room HDB | 8-10 weeks | Faster due to smaller area, standard layouts | $25,000 - $45,000 |
| 4-5 Room HDB | 9-11 weeks | Additional rooms increase timeline | $35,000 - $65,000 |
| Executive HDB | 10-12 weeks | Larger space, often more complex layouts | $45,000 - $80,000 |
| Condo Unit | 10-12 weeks | MCST restrictions may slow progress | $40,000 - $90,000 |
| Landed Property | 12-16 weeks | Multiple levels, potential A&A works | $80,000 - $200,000 |
Weeks 9-12: Finishing and Completion
Week 9: Painting and Wall Finishes
All painting work begins after dust-generating trades are completed. This includes primer application, wall preparation, and two coats of finish paint for walls and ceilings. Special finishes like wallpaper or feature wall treatments are also applied during this phase. Painting requires proper ventilation and 24-hour drying time between coats.
Week 10: Electrical and Plumbing Finishes
Switch and socket installation, light fixture mounting, and final electrical connections are completed. Sanitary ware installation including toilets, basins, shower screens, and taps occurs simultaneously. All electrical and plumbing systems undergo final testing and commissioning.
Week 11: Final Installations and Touch-ups
Final installations include door handles, cabinet hardware fine-tuning, mirror mounting, towel bars, and accessories. Touch-up work for paint, grouting, and minor adjustments are addressed. Appliance delivery and installation scheduling occurs during this phase.
Week 12: Cleaning and Handover
Professional post-renovation cleaning removes all construction dust and residue. Final inspection with the homeowner identifies any punch list items requiring attention. Keys are handed over upon satisfactory completion and final payment processing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can renovation timeline be shortened to 6 weeks?
While possible for minor renovations involving only painting and basic updates, comprehensive renovations require minimum 8 weeks due to material curing times, trade coordination, and proper quality control. Rushing typically compromises workmanship quality.
What causes renovation delays in Singapore?
Common delay factors include material delivery issues (20% of delays), permit approval extensions, design changes during construction, weather affecting outdoor work, and coordination issues between multiple specialist trades requiring sequential work completion.
When should I move out during renovation?
Complete move-out is recommended for weeks 1-8 when dust, noise, and utility disruptions are highest. Partial occupancy may be possible from week 9 onwards, though final cleaning and touch-ups continue through week 12.
How much buffer time should I add to renovation timeline?
Add 10-15% buffer time (1-2 additional weeks) for unforeseen issues like structural discoveries, material defects, or weather delays. This buffer prevents stress and allows for proper problem resolution without compromising quality standards.
Can renovation work during Chinese New Year or festive periods?
Work typically pauses during major festive periods, adding 1-2 weeks to timeline. Plan renovation start dates considering Hari Raya, Chinese New Year, and Deepavali periods. Material suppliers and specialist trades also observe these holidays, affecting delivery schedules.
Ready to start your renovation with a clear timeline and transparent process? Larry Contractors has completed 500+ projects since 2009, operating our own carpentry factory for faster, quality-controlled delivery. Get your detailed renovation timeline and quote today. Contact us directly at WhatsApp — no middleman markups, just honest pricing and reliable execution from permit to handover.