Author: Sonia Lourdes

Congratulations on purchasing a new Build-to-Order (BTO) flat. Owning a home is an exciting milestone for many Singaporeans; it’s the first step toward creating your dream life with your forever partner. However, once you receive the keys, the real challenge begins — renovating your new space. Whether you’re a first-time homeowner or looking to upgrade, a well-structured renovation plan is crucial to ensure a smooth process.

This handy BTO renovation checklist will guide you through the essential steps in planning your home renovation, from budgeting to hiring contractors and designing your space. By the end of this article, you’ll be equipped with all the information needed to execute a successful BTO renovation.

1. Plan Your Budget

Before diving into design ideas and hiring contractors, the first step in your renovation journey is setting a realistic budget. Renovation costs can vary widely depending on the type of work, materials, and project scope. Therefore, it’s essential to determine how much you’re willing to spend before you begin.

Factors to Consider:

Size of the home	Larger homes will naturally incur higher renovation costs.
Type of work	Full renovations, including kitchen, bathroom, and flooring upgrades, will cost more than cosmetic changes.
Materials and finishes	High-end materials, like marble countertops or imported tiles, will increase costs.
Professional services	Architect or interior designer fees, contractor charges, and other professional services can add to the budget.

Set aside a contingency budget of around 10% to 15% for unexpected expenses.

2. Understand Your Needs and Preferences

The next step is understanding your needs and preferences now that you have a budget. What kind of design do you envision for your new home? Would you prefer a minimalist style, or are you leaning towards a more classic or modern aesthetic? This is also the stage to decide on how much of the renovation you want to do yourself and what you want to leave to professionals.

Start by prioritizing the most essential areas of your home, such as:

Kitchen	The heart of your home requires careful attention to layout, storage, and appliances.
Bathrooms	A functional and stylish bathroom can enhance your living experience.
Living and dining areas	These spaces require furniture, lighting, and finishes that complement your lifestyle.

List out your non-negotiables (e.g., storage needs, functionality), and be open to adjustments if something exceeds your budget.

3. Apply for Renovation Approvals

Over here, homeowners must get approval from HDB for specific renovation works. These approvals ensure the work complies with HDB’s regulations and safety standards. It is crucial to follow these guidelines to avoid penalties or delays.

Renovations that typically require approval include:

Hacking walls	If you want to remove or alter structural walls.
Changing windows	Installing or altering windows must comply with the HDB guidelines.
Electrical work	All electrical works must adhere to safety standards.
Plumbing work	Involves changes to plumbing, such as new sinks or toilets.

HDB approval is also necessary for works that may affect the external appearance of the flat. Ensure you submit the required documents and wait for approval before starting work.

4. Choose the Right Contractors and Service Providers

Finding the right contractor is critical to the success of your renovation. You’ll need a licensed contractor who is experienced with BTO renovations and understands HDB’s rules and regulations. You can search online, ask for recommendations, or even visit the BTO showroom for a list of accredited contractors.

Types of Contractors You Might Need:

General contractor	Manages the renovation project from start to finish, including coordinating with other contractors.
Specialized contractors	These may include electricians, plumbers, carpenters, and painters, depending on your needs.
Interior designer	If you want to elevate the aesthetics of your home, consider hiring an interior designer to help with layout and design.

Always check the contractor’s license, previous work, and reviews from past clients. A good reputation and experience in BTO flats are important indicators of reliability.

5. Create a Floor Plan and Design Concept

Once you’ve sorted the budget and hired your contractors, creating a floor plan is time. You can work with an interior designer or use online tools to design your home layout. This step is crucial for determining the flow of space, how furniture will be arranged, and where essential items like electrical outlets and lighting will go.

Important Considerations:

Space planning	Ensure that rooms are functional and offer sufficient space for movement.
Storage	Maximize storage space with built-in cabinets and shelves, especially in smaller flats.
Lighting	Consider natural lighting, ambient lighting, task lighting, and accent lighting.
Color scheme and materials	Choose finishes that suit your style while staying within budget.

If you’re unsure about your design ideas, get input from a professional interior designer who can guide you on layout, material choices, and color schemes.

6. Purchase Materials and Furnishings

Now that the design plan is set, it’s time to purchase materials and furnishings for your BTO flat. Depending on your renovation plan, you may need to buy:

Flooring materials	Tiles, laminate, or vinyl flooring for different rooms.
Cabinets and storage solutions	Built-in and free-standing options.
Furniture	Sofas, tables, and chairs that complement your design.
Appliances	Washing machines, refrigerators, stoves, etc.

Check out sales and promotions at local stores and online platforms to save on furniture and home appliances.

7. Schedule the Renovation Work

Before you start, coordinate with your contractors to schedule your renovation work. Renovations typically involve multiple stages, such as demolition, carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, painting, and the final touch-ups.

Typical Timeline for a BTO Renovation:

Stage 1	Hacking walls and demolition (1-2 weeks)
Stage 2	Carpentry and electrical work (2-3 weeks)
Stage 3	Painting, tiling, and finishing touches (2 weeks)
Stage 4	Cleaning and final inspections (1 week)

Ensure all stages are carefully planned to avoid delays or conflicts between contractors. Additionally, regular site visits will help you stay updated on the progress.

8. Final Inspections and Quality Check

Once the renovation is completed, thoroughly inspect your new home. Check if everything has been installed properly, and if there are any defects or issues. It’s easier to address these problems before the final payments are made.

Things to Check:

Functionality	Ensure that electrical outlets, water fixtures, and appliances work as expected.
Quality	Look for cracks, stains, or any visible defects in the paint or finishes.
Safety	Confirm that all installations are secure and meet safety standards.

If any issues arise, contact your contractors for repairs or adjustments before finalizing payments.

9. Handover and Moving In

Once the renovation is complete, and everything has passed inspection, it’s time to move in. Before moving your furniture in, ensure the house is cleaned, and any leftover debris from the renovation is removed.

Consider hiring a professional cleaning service to do a deep clean and remove dust and debris.

10. Ongoing Maintenance

After your BTO renovation, don’t forget about ongoing maintenance to maintain your home. Regular checks and upkeep of plumbing, electrical systems, and appliances will help prolong the life of your home improvements and prevent future costly repairs.

Final Thoughts

Renovating your BTO flat can be an exciting yet overwhelming process. However, with proper planning, the right professionals, and a clear vision for your home, you can achieve the perfect space that suits your lifestyle. From setting a budget to selecting contractors and planning your design, this BTO renovation checklist will ensure you cover all the necessary steps to create a home you’ll love.

The key to a successful BTO renovation is organization and thoughtful decision-making. By following this checklist and hiring reliable professionals, your dream home is within reach.

When it comes to improving your home, two terms that frequently come up are “renovation” and “remodel.” While many people use these terms interchangeably, they have distinct meanings, especially in the context of home improvement. Understanding the differences between a renovation and a remodel is essential for homeowners who want to make informed decisions about their upcoming projects. Whether you’re planning a minor upgrade or a complete overhaul, knowing which approach suits your needs can save you time, money, and stress.

Today we’ll break down the key differences between renovation and remodeling, what each term involves, when to choose one, and how to plan for these projects effectively.

What Is Home Renovation?

Renovation is restoring or improving an existing structure, often to bring it back to its original condition or update it to modern standards. A renovation usually involves cosmetic upgrades, such as painting, replacing flooring, or updating fixtures. The goal is to refresh or fix what’s already there without altering the structure or function of the space.

Examples of Renovation:

Repainting walls	Give your living room or kitchen a fresh coat of paint to make it look new again.
Replacing old flooring	Changing worn-out tiles, carpets, or wooden floors with new ones.
Upgrading fixtures	Replacing outdated faucets, light fixtures, and cabinet handles to give a more modern look.

In essence, renovation is about restoring or refurbishing existing features rather than altering the space’s layout or functionality. It’s often a simpler and less expensive process compared to remodeling.

What Is Home Remodeling?

Remodeling, on the other hand, involves changing the structure or layout of a space. It can involve tearing down walls, adding rooms, or changing the purpose of a room entirely. Unlike renovation, remodeling can significantly alter how a space functions and looks. A remodel is often more complex and expensive because it typically requires architectural work, permits, and construction expertise.

Examples of Remodeling:

Tearing down walls	If you want to open a kitchen to the living room, you might need to knock down a wall to create an open floor plan.
Changing room functions	Converting a bedroom into an office or turning a basement into a home theater.
Building extensions	Adding a new room, such as a guest bedroom, home office, or bathroom.

While remodeling can lead to a complete space transformation, renovation typically focuses on improvement or maintenance without altering the fundamental layout or structure.

Key Differences Between Renovation and Remodeling

Now that we have defined both terms let’s look at the key differences between renovation and remodeling. Understanding these distinctions can help you decide which project suits your needs.

1. Purpose of the Project

• Renovation: Renovation aims to restore, update, or refresh a space. It may involve cosmetic upgrades to enhance aesthetics or fix aging features.
• Remodeling: Remodeling aims to transform the layout or function of a space. It involves changing the space’s purpose, structure, or flow.

2. Cost and Complexity

• Renovation: Renovations are typically less expensive and less complex because they don’t require major construction or structural changes. Renovations focus on improving the existing features of a home.
• Remodeling: Remodeling projects tend to be costlier and more complex. Since they often involve changing the structure of a home, they require permits, specialized labor, and potentially more time and resources.

3. Time Commitment

• Renovation: Because renovations generally involve less construction, they are quicker to complete. Depending on the scope, renovations can take a few days or weeks.
• Remodeling: Remodeling takes longer due to the more extensive changes made to the space. A remodeling project can take several weeks or even months, especially if it involves major structural changes.

4. Value Added to the Home

• Renovation: Renovations usually enhance a home’s aesthetic appeal and functionality, but they don’t always add significant structural value. They are more likely to improve comfort and convenience.
• Remodeling: Remodeling can significantly increase the value of a home, especially if the remodel addresses functional aspects, such as expanding living space, adding a bathroom, or modernizing the kitchen.

5. Permits and Regulations

• Renovation: Most renovations don’t require major permits unless you’re altering the plumbing, electrical, or structural systems. Simple upgrades and cosmetic changes can often be done without legal requirements.
• Remodeling: Remodeling usually requires permits because structural changes are involved. These permits ensure that the work complies with local building codes and regulations. This can add complexity to the project.

When to Choose Renovation

Renovation is the right choice when you want to update your home without drastically changing the structure or function. Some scenarios where renovation is a better option include:

Improving the look of outdated rooms	If your kitchen or bathroom looks tired but still functions well, a renovation could breathe new life into it.
Upgrading old materials	If your floors, cabinets, or windows are worn out but the space layout works, a renovation will address these issues without altering the room’s design.
Staying within budget	Renovations are typically more affordable than remodeling, making them an excellent option for homeowners on a tight budget.

When to Choose Remodeling

Remodeling is the best choice when you need to change a space’s layout, function, or purpose. If your home no longer meets your needs, remodeling lets you completely transform it. Some situations where remodeling is a better option include:

Changing the layout	If you want to open up a closed-off kitchen, create an open-plan living space, or add an extension to your home, remodeling is the way to go.
Increasing functionality	If your home feels cramped, remodeling can add more space or improve the flow of the rooms.
Maximizing home value	Remodeling high-impact areas like the kitchen or bathroom can significantly boost the resale value of your home, making it an excellent investment.

How to Decide Between Renovation and Remodeling

When deciding whether to renovate or remodel, start by considering your goals. If your primary aim is to refresh the appearance of your home without altering its structure, a renovation is probably the best option. If you want to completely change how your home works or looks, remodeling may be necessary.

Additionally, budget and time constraints play a significant role. Renovations tend to be more budget-friendly and quicker to execute, while remodeling is a larger investment in money and time.

It’s also worth noting that if your home is older and needs significant repairs, remodeling may be more cost-effective than continually renovating the same outdated areas.

Final Thoughts

Whether you renovate or remodel, both options offer opportunities to improve your living space. Renovation focuses on updating and restoring the existing features of your home, while remodeling allows you to transform it to suit your needs and lifestyle completely better.

Understanding the difference between these approaches and when to use them will ensure you make informed decisions about your home improvement projects. Whether you want to refresh your home or make substantial changes, taking the right steps will help you create a space you can enjoy for years.

Owning a home is a significant achievement, but it also comes with maintenance and repair responsibility. While many minor repairs can be handled with minimal cost, some home repairs in Singapore can be unexpectedly expensive. These repairs often involve complicated issues, specialist tradespeople, or the need for high-quality materials. Knowing what to expect regarding costs and how to prepare for these repairs can help you avoid financial surprises and ensure your home remains safe, functional, and beautiful.

This article will explore Singapore’s 14 most expensive home repairs, providing insights into why these repairs are costly and how homeowners can prepare for or minimize these expenses.

1. Full Aircon Replacement

If you’re a Singaporean or your live in Singapore, then you already know that an aircon is a must-have in every Singaporean home to combat the hot and humid climate. While regular maintenance can help extend the lifespan of your aircon unit, there will come a time when replacement is necessary. The cost of replacing a complete aircon unit can be substantial, especially if you have a central or multi-zone system.

Aircon units require significant labor and high-quality components. Costs include purchasing the new unit, removing the old one, and installing the new system. In addition, the complexity of the installation will dictate the overall price.

Average Cost: Replacing an aircon unit in Singapore can cost anywhere from $2,000 and $8,000 for a multi-zone system, depending on the size of your property and the type of aircon unit.

2. Plumbing Overhaul

A plumbing overhaul can be costly, particularly in older homes. Over time, pipes corrode, leak, or become clogged, necessitating a comprehensive plumbing system update. The repair becomes even more expensive if the pipes are located in hard-to-reach areas, such as within walls or beneath floors.

Replacing pipes or fixing extensive water damage requires specialized labor and high-quality materials. Additionally, extensive plumbing work often involves opening walls, floors, or ceilings, leading to additional labor costs.

Average Cost: Plumbing overhauls typically cost $3,000 and $15,000, depending on the scale of the work, the property size, and the complexity of the plumbing system.

3. Electrical Rewiring

As with plumbing, the electrical system in older homes can show signs of wear, especially with outdated wiring. Electrical rewiring is essential for safety and functionality, especially if your home’s electrical system cannot support modern appliances.

Rewiring involves a lot of work, especially in older properties where walls, ceilings, and floors may need to be opened up to access wires. Additionally, licensed electricians and high-quality materials are required for the job, further driving up costs.

Average Cost: Rewiring a home in Singapore can cost between $3,000 and $15,000, depending on the size of your home and the extent of the rewiring required.

4. Major Kitchen Renovation

The kitchen is often considered the heart of the home, and when it’s time for a major renovation, the costs can quickly add up. Anyone who owns a home knows that a full kitchen renovation is a big investment, from replacing countertops to installing new cabinetry and appliances.

Kitchen renovations involve many different aspects, including cabinetry, flooring, plumbing, electrical work, and the installation of high-end appliances. Custom materials like granite countertops or stainless-steel appliances can raise the price.

Average Cost: A major kitchen renovation in Singapore can cost anywhere from $15,000 and $50,000 or more, depending on the size, materials, and complexity of the renovation.

5. Full Bathroom Renovation

Like kitchen renovations, bathroom renovations can be expensive, particularly when the plumbing, tiling, and fixtures need to be replaced. Bathrooms are often smaller than kitchens, but the complexity of the work and the need for specialized installations can make this a costly repair.

Full bathroom renovations involve plumbing work, tile installations, and the replacement of fixtures such as sinks, bathtubs, and toilets. High-end finishes, such as marble tiles or designer fixtures, will increase costs.

Average Cost: A complete bathroom renovation in Singapore can range from $8,000 and $30,000, depending on the size and materials.

6. Pest Infestation Treatment

Pest infestations are a common problem in Singapore due to its tropical climate. Whether it’s termites, rodents, or cockroaches, pest problems, particularly wooden structures, can cause extensive damage to your home.

Termites can cause significant damage to the structure of the home. The cost of treating an infestation often involves extensive fumigation and sometimes even repairs to the affected areas.

Average Cost: Pest infestation treatments can range from $500 and $10,000 or more, depending on the type of pest and the extent of the damage.

7. Structural Repair

Structural repairs are necessary when the integrity of the building is compromised due to issues like water damage, poor construction, or wear over time. This type of repair can be quite costly, especially when the problem affects critical areas like load-bearing walls or beams.

Structural repairs require highly skilled labor and specialized materials. Repairing or reinforcing the foundation, beams, or walls often involves considerable effort and equipment.

Average Cost: Structural repairs can cost anywhere from $5,000 and $50,000, depending on the type of repair and the extent of the damage.

8. Waterproofing Issues

Waterproofing is essential to prevent damage to basements, bathrooms, and balconies. If waterproofing fails, it can lead to water seepage and damage, requiring expensive repairs.

This is a specialized job that often requires removing existing materials and applying high-quality sealants and coatings. In some cases, the underlying structural issues may also need to be addressed.

Average Cost: Waterproofing issues typically cost between $2,000 and $8,000, depending on the severity of the problem and the area needing treatment.

9. Window Replacement

Replacing old or damaged windows can significantly enhance the aesthetic of your home while improving energy efficiency. However, high-quality windows, especially double-glazed ones, can be expensive to replace.

Window replacement requires both the cost of the windows and the labor to install them. High-quality windows made from durable materials like UPVC or wood come at a premium price.

Average Cost: Window replacement costs can range from $300 and $2,000 per window, depending on the material and size.

Final Thoughts

Home repairs can quickly become costly, especially involving structural issues, plumbing, or specialized trades. By understanding Singapore’s most expensive home repairs, you can better prepare for these costs and take preventative measures to avoid them. Regular maintenance, timely repairs, and investing in quality materials can reduce the likelihood of costly issues. Always consult a professional to ensure that any major repairs are done correctly, safely, and efficiently, protecting your home and wallet.

Handyman services are essential to maintaining any home or office, and in Singapore, the demand for skilled handymen is steadily increasing. Whether minor repairs, installations, or renovations, handymen offers various services to keep properties in good condition. Hiring a handyman can save time, money, and effort for homeowners and businesses alike. However, with so many services available, it can be tough to know which ones are most commonly requested.

Here, we will explore the 10 ultimate handyman services in Singapore. Understanding these services can help you identify which ones you might need and ensure you’re prepared for home or office maintenance. Whether you’re dealing with a leaky faucet, need new shelving installed, or want to revamp your home with custom carpentry, these services are what Singaporeans call on the most.

1. Plumbing Services

Plumbing is one of the most common handyman services in Singapore. From leaky faucets to clogged drains, homeowners and businesses alike frequently require plumbing assistance. In Singapore’s humid climate, plumbing problems can quickly escalate, leading to water damage or mold growth if not addressed promptly.

Typical Plumbing Services:

• Fixing leaks (pipes, faucets, toilets)
• Installing water heaters
• Unclogging drains
• Pipe repairs
• Replacing worn-out plumbing fixtures

Average Cost: Depending on the issue’s complexity, plumbing services can cost between $50 and $150 per hour.

2. Electrical Work

Electrical work is another high-demand handyman service in Singapore. With so many electrical devices in use at all times, it’s no wonder that electrical repairs and installations are often requested. Handymen specializing in electrical work can handle everything from simple socket installations to fixing faulty wiring.

Typical Electrical Services:

• Installing light fixtures and switches
• Repairing faulty wiring
• Upgrading electrical panels
• Installing ceiling fans
• Troubleshooting electrical issues

Average Cost: Electrical services generally range from $80 to $120 per hour, depending on the complexity of the work.

3. Carpentry and Woodwork

Carpentry is a sought-after handyman service for those looking to enhance or restore their home’s appearance. Whether custom shelving, furniture repairs, or full-scale home renovations, carpenters provide practical and aesthetic value to any space.

Typical Carpentry Services:

• Building and installing custom furniture (e.g., cabinets, tables)
• Installing shelves and storage solutions
• Repairing wooden furniture
• Wooden floor installation
• Door and window framing

Average Cost: Depending on the project, carpentry services in Singapore can range from $50 to $150 per hour or more, especially for custom work.

4. Painting and Decorating

Painting and decorating are among the most popular handyman services, especially during home renovations or regular maintenance. A fresh coat of paint can make a huge difference in the look and feel of a room or building. Whether painting the exterior or adding a new hue to your living room, these services are in high demand.

Typical Painting Services:

• Interior and exterior painting
• Wall touch-ups and repairs
• Specialized decorative finishes (e.g., textured walls)
• Wallpaper installation
• Painting furniture

Average Cost: Professional painting services in Singapore typically cost between $300 to $1,000 for a standard-sized room.

5. Handyman for Home Repairs

General home repairs are another frequent request for handyman services. From fixing minor cracks to repairing doors, windows, and other structures, these small repairs are essential to keeping your home functional and safe.

Typical Home Repair Services:

• Door and window repairs
• Patchwork for drywall and plaster
• Repairing cracks in floors or walls
• Fixing broken tiles
• Replacing handles and locks

Average Cost: General home repair services typically cost around $50 to $100 per hour, depending on the repair needed.

6. Furniture Assembly

With many people purchasing flat-pack furniture or items that require assembly, furniture assembly has become a popular request for handymen. Professional handymen can save you time and effort when assembling a bed, a wardrobe, or a bookshelf.

Typical Furniture Assembly Services:

• Assembling flat-pack furniture
• Disassembling and reassembling furniture for relocation
• Setting up office furniture (e.g., desks, chairs)
• Building custom furniture from scratch

Average Cost: Furniture assembly services usually cost between $50 and $100 per hour.

7. Kitchen and Bathroom Remodeling

Remodeling your kitchen or bathroom is a significant investment, but it can increase the value of your home and improve your daily living experience. Handymen specializing in these renovations are highly sought after for their plumbing, electrical work, and carpentry expertise.

Typical Remodeling Services:

• Installing new countertops and backsplashes
• Replacing fixtures (e.g., faucets, sinks, showers)
• Upgrading appliances (e.g., dishwashers, stoves)
• Installing or upgrading cabinetry
• Tiling and flooring installations

Average Cost: A full kitchen or bathroom remodel can cost anywhere from $3,000 to $20,000, depending on the project’s scope.

8. Home Security System Installation

As concerns about safety and security grow, many homeowners are turning to handymen to install home security systems. This service includes setting up cameras, alarms, and motion sensors to provide peace of mind.

Typical Security System Services:

• Installing cameras and motion sensors
• Setting up door and window alarms
• Integrating security systems with home automation
• Installing smart locks
• Security system maintenance and upgrades

Average Cost: Security system installation services range from $300 to $1,000 or more, depending on the system’s complexity.

9. Landscaping and Lawn Care

Handymen also offer landscaping and lawn care services to help maintain the exterior of your home. These services range from bare lawn mowing to more detailed landscape designs involving planting, trimming, and lawn installation.

Typical Landscaping Services:

• Lawn mowing and trimming
• Hedge trimming and tree pruning
• Garden design and planting
• Installing artificial turf
• Irrigation system installation

Average Cost: Lawn care services typically cost between $100 and $500 for regular maintenance, with higher costs for larger landscaping projects.

10. Pest Control Services

Pest control services are also a commonly requested service for homeowners in Singapore. Handymen trained in pest control can help eliminate rats and roaches and prevent future infestations.

Typical Pest Control Services:

• Rodent removal and prevention
• Insect extermination (e.g., cockroaches, ants)
• Termite control and prevention
• Bedbug eradication
• Fumigation services

Average Cost: Pest control services range from $150 to $500, depending on the type of pests and the size of the affected area.

Final Thoughts

From plumbing and electrical work to painting and furniture assembly, the services of a handyman are essential for maintaining a functional and safe home. The ten handyman jobs listed above are among the most requested in Singapore, and knowing what to expect from each service can help you make informed decisions when hiring a professional.

To ensure quality work, always hire a licensed and experienced handyman. Whether you need help with minor repairs or large-scale home improvements, a skilled handyman will save you time, money, and effort while providing peace of mind.