Most of the stress in a home renovation comes from not knowing what’s supposed to happen next. Once you understand what’s happening at each stage of the process, renovation will feel far less intimidating.We put together a breakdown of a typical renovation timeline in Singapore so you will know what to expect (and what to do) at every stage.<h3>Stage 1: Planning + Conceptualisation&nbsp;</h3>In the first few weeks of your renovation journey (even before collecting your keys), you’ll likely spend time gathering ideas online and reflecting on your needs and lifestyle. This is when you start defining what your home should look and feel like.<figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:1279/854;" src="https://d213h1b7vxzzl3.cloudfront.net/editor/8838e271-49a0-4173-92f4-87fe4f6a0b35-blob" width="1279" height="854"></figure>Here’s what to focus on during this stage:Assess your needs and lifestyle. Think about how you use your space daily, who lives with you, and what matters the most to you, whether it's enough storage, aesthetics, the flexibility or low maintenance.Set your budget and priorities. Be realistic about how much you can spend and which areas you’re willing to compromise on.Study your floor plan. Identify possible layout changes early, so you know what’s feasible before discussing with an interior designer (ID).Gather references. Save photos or examples of styles and layouts you like — it helps your ID understand your preferences faster.Start shortlisting interior designers or contractors. If you’re within six months of receiving your keys, it’s a good time to begin meeting them. Meeting them any earlier means they won’t be able to provide an accurate quote yet. &nbsp;When shortlisting, make sure to research their portfolio and working style, and read a mix of good and bad reviews to get a balanced picture.Check their accreditations too. HDB renovations require contractors registered under the HDB Registered Renovation Contractors Scheme. Consider <a href="https://www.case.org.sg/casetrust/casetrust-accreditation-for-renovation-businesses/">CaseTrust-accredited firms</a>, which are recognised for transparent pricing, fair contracts, and ethical business practices.Working with a CaseTrust-accredited renovation firm gives you confidence that your quotation and project scope will be clearly defined and transparent. These firms follow strict guidelines to ensure open communication and fair practices right from the start.&nbsp;<h3>Stage 2: Design Finalisation + Contract Signing</h3>Once you’re aligned on both concept and cost with your shortlisted ID or contractor, the design process becomes more detailed and technical.<figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:1280/853;" src="https://d213h1b7vxzzl3.cloudfront.net/editor/a2b0a23f-5ea2-4018-9f1d-343fa0804555-blob" width="1280" height="853"></figure>Here, you will typically:Review and confirm 3D design drawings and material selections.Discuss your electrical and lighting layouts. These affect ceiling design, carpentry and space planning.Lock in built-in appliances, fittings and air-conditioning units. Confirm exact models and share their dimensions with your ID as these details affect carpentry sizes, countertop cuts and plumbing layouts.Finalise your quotation. This should include a clear breakdown of work items and payment milestones. Make sure you also get a proposed renovation schedule.&nbsp;Tip: A proper renovation quotation should tie payments to specific project milestones, so you release funds only as actual work progresses. Ensure the deposit is reasonable (we recommend no more than 20% upfront) and that it also includes clear delay penalties, warranty terms and responsibilities for both parties.<a href="https://casetrustapplication.azurewebsites.net/Home/casetrustlist">Firms accredited under CaseTrust</a> follow a protected payment structure with transparent milestones. This means you only pay as work progresses, protecting your finances and ensuring accountability throughout the renovation.&nbsp;<h3>Stage 3: Pre-Reno Prep</h3>At this stage, your ID will handle the submission of renovation permits, whether to HDB or your condominium’s MCST (Management Corporation Strata Title), and in certain cases the Building and Construction Authority (BCA).&nbsp;You will likely be involved in material and fixtures selection during this time. Expect showroom visits for countertops, tiles, laminates and lighting, whether on your own or with your ID. Once you’ve confirmed your choices, your ID will start ordering materials and scheduling subcontractors to align timelines.<figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:1280/853;" src="https://d213h1b7vxzzl3.cloudfront.net/editor/a9459ee5-fe23-40f0-9b3d-e64d3b9077fb-blob" width="1280" height="853"></figure>Use this period to also prepare the following:Go furniture shopping. Shortlist pieces that fit your space and your needs, but you may want to hold off on final purchases until measurements are confirmed.Plan your logistics. Book movers early if you're relocating from another place. Arrange temporary accommodation or storage if your renovation timeline overlaps with your move-out date.Check your renovation schedule. Ask your ID for key milestone dates so you can plan deliveries, inspections and site visits accordingly.&nbsp;<h3>Stage 4: Construction</h3>Your designs finally take physical form! Renovation works typically progress as such:&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:1280/853;" src="https://d213h1b7vxzzl3.cloudfront.net/editor/3ca460ae-938a-4836-a01d-8f8d5ab35d85-blob" width="1280" height="853"></figure><ol><li>Hacking and demolition: removing old fixtures, flooring, and non-structural walls.</li><li>Masonry and tiling: laying new tiles and waterproofing wet areas.</li><li>Plumbing and electrical works: installing concealed pipes, wiring and lighting points.</li><li>Carpentry fabrication: usually done off-site before installation.</li><li>Painting, flooring and final fittings: the finishing touches that bring your space together.</li></ol>What you should do during this stage:Conduct weekly site visits. Bring along your drawings and renovation quotation to cross-check that what’s being built matches what was agreed upon. Regular site visits help you catch small errors early, before they become expensive or time-consuming to fix later. Look out for tile alignment and finishes, the positioning of lighting and electrical points, and whether carpentry works match your drawings and measurements.&nbsp;Coordinate deliveries. Confirm delivery schedules with your ID so they can be on-site to receive items if you’re unable to. Make sure large items such as sinks, hoods, and built-in appliances are delivered at the right stage of the renovation for proper fitting and installation. This helps prevent delays or the need for rework later.Document all changes. Even small tweaks should be recorded in writing (WhatsApp or email). Always request a formal Variation Order (VO) for any additional works or cost adjustments before the actual work commences.Even with the best planning, renovation hiccups can happen. The Consumers Association of Singapore (CASE) provides mediation services to resolve disputes between consumers and renovation businesses, helping both sides reach fair outcomes without legal escalation.To minimise the chances of disputes altogether, consider working with a CaseTrust-accredited renovation firm. These companies adhere to strict standards for transparency, communication, and payment protection. In 2024, CASE received 962 renovation-related complaints, keeping the sector among the top five for consumer grievances. Notably, 97% of these were against non-CaseTrust-accredited contractors, highlighting the value of working with accredited firms for accountability and peace of mind.&nbsp;<h3>Stage 5: Handover</h3>After the dust settles, your ID will invite you for a handover inspection. This marks the official completion of works, but it’s also your last opportunity to ensure everything is built and finished to expectation.<figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:1280/853;" src="https://d213h1b7vxzzl3.cloudfront.net/editor/e1e7deef-4e2d-4892-8be8-9ee0e0779755-blob" width="1280" height="853"></figure>Bring your floor plan, your renovation quotation and a checklist so you can systematically inspect every area.Here are some things to check during the handover:Doors and carpentry: Open and close every cabinet, drawer, and door. Check for alignment, smooth hinges, laminate finishes and edge seals.Electrical points: Test all power sockets, light switches, and data points.&nbsp;Plumbing and fittings: Turn on all taps, check water pressure and look for leaks under sinks or at joints. Flush toilets and inspect silicone seals around wet areas.Appliance fittings: Ensure built-in items like ovens, hoods and washing machines fit and work correctly, with no obstructions or loose joints.Paintwork and surfaces: Look for patchy finishes, cracks or uneven edges around walls, ceilings and tiles.Here’s a handy <a href="https://www.renonation.sg/articles/a-super-thorough-checklist-for-your-final-walkthrough-before-your-id-hands-you-back-your-home">checklist</a> to guide your inspection.&nbsp;Don’t feel rushed to sign off or make the final payment. Request that any defects or rectifications be completed first, and ensure they’re documented clearly in writing.&nbsp;Once you’re satisfied, take photos of all completed works so you have a visual record for your own reference and for warranty documentation. Confirm warranty coverage with your ID or contractor, including workmanship and material warranties for different components.If you worked with a CaseTrust-accredited firm, you will benefit from clearly defined after-sales service policies and warranty terms, which help ensure follow-up issues are handled transparently and professionally.&nbsp;<h3>Stage 6: Post-Reno</h3>&nbsp;This stage is about settling in and keeping everything in good condition for years to come.&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:1279/853;" src="https://d213h1b7vxzzl3.cloudfront.net/editor/41ed7c66-9e0b-440f-b0f7-83548a109499-blob" width="1279" height="853"></figure>Here’s what to focus on once you move in:Monitor for minor defects. Small cracks or uneven joints can appear as the structure settles. Note them down and inform your ID within the warranty period so they can rectify them.Register warranties. Sign up for warranty coverage on appliances, fixtures, and systems as soon as possible. Many require online registration within a fixed period.Keep your documents organised. Store all renovation contracts, invoices, receipts and warranty cards in one digital or physical folder. It’ll save you time when scheduling maintenance or warranty claims later.Plan for maintenance. Regular care keeps your finishes in good shape for longer. Always follow the care guidelines from your suppliers or manufacturers, since different materials require different cleaning methods.Good renovation firms will still be available for post-handover support, whether for minor touch-ups or advice on maintenance.

The Complete Renovation Timeline in Singapore: What to Expect (and Do) at Every Stage

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