Kitchen renovation costs in Singapore can vary significantly depending on your HDB flat type, whether the home is a new BTO or resale flat, the amount of carpentry, countertop material, wet works, plumbing, electrical work and appliances. Based on typical project scopes for Singapore homes, this guide gives you practical planning ranges for 3-room, 4-room and 5-room HDB kitchens, including BTO and resale homes.
These are indicative planning ranges, not fixed quotations. Final pricing depends on your kitchen layout, measurements, materials and actual site requirements.
Kitchen Renovation Cost in Singapore — At a Glance
For HDB homeowners, the cost of a kitchen renovation depends more on the actual scope of work than simply the size of the flat.
Here are indicative planning ranges for common HDB kitchen renovation projects:
| HDB Flat Type | BTO Planning Range | Resale Planning Range |
|---|---|---|
| 3-Room | S$8,000–S$18,000 | S$12,000–S$25,000+ |
| 4-Room | S$10,000–S$20,000 | S$15,000–S$28,000 |
| 5-Room | S$12,000–S$25,000 | S$18,000–S$45,000+ |
These are planning ranges, not fixed quotations. Your actual renovation cost can change depending on the amount of cabinetry, countertop material, hacking and tiling, plumbing, electrical work, appliances and the condition of the existing kitchen.
For a more accurate figure, the best approach is to have the actual kitchen layout and renovation scope assessed before a quotation is prepared.
Kitchen Renovation Cost by Scope
Another useful way to estimate your budget is to look at the scope of renovation rather than only the flat type.
| Renovation Scope | Indicative Budget |
|---|---|
| Light refresh / basic works | S$8,000–12,000 |
| Mid-range rebuild | S$12,000–22,000 |
| Premium / open-concept overhaul | S$25,000–40,000+ |
| Extensive / luxury renovation | Can exceed S$40,000 |
A smaller kitchen can sometimes cost more than a larger one if it involves extensive hacking, plumbing relocation, premium countertops, additional electrical work or a large amount of custom carpentry.
The important question is therefore not only “How big is the kitchen?” but also “What exactly needs to be done?”
Detailed Kitchen Renovation Cost Breakdown
The final quotation is normally made up of several major components.
1. Kitchen Carpentry
Indicative carpentry cost: S$6,000–18,000
Kitchen carpentry can make up a significant part of the renovation budget because the amount of cabinetry varies from one kitchen to another.
Cost can increase when you add:
- More base and wall cabinets
- Full-height storage
- Tall units
- Built-in appliance cabinets
- Pull-out storage systems
- Additional drawers
- Premium hardware
- Special corner solutions
- Custom cabinet dimensions
The material and internal fittings also affect the final price.
If you are comparing different cabinet materials, see our guide to best kitchen cabinet materials.
2. Countertops
Indicative countertop cost: S$1,500–4,000
The countertop price depends on the material, size, thickness, edge profile and installation requirements.
Common options include laminate, quartz and sintered stone.
Rather than choosing a countertop based only on appearance, consider how frequently you cook, how much heat and moisture the surface will experience, and how much maintenance you are comfortable with.
3. Plumbing and Electrical Work
Indicative cost: S$1,500–3,500
The cost depends on whether the existing plumbing and electrical points can be retained or whether new points need to be added or relocated.
Additional work may be required for:
- Induction hob
- Built-in oven
- Cooker hood
- Refrigerator
- Water filter
- Additional power points
- Lighting
- Appliance relocation
Older properties may also require additional electrical assessment or upgrading depending on the existing installation.
4. Hacking, Masonry and Tiling
Indicative cost: S$3,000–10,000+ depending on scope
This can include removal of existing cabinets, hacking, tile removal, new tiling, surface preparation and related masonry work.
Resale kitchens are more likely to require this type of work because an existing kitchen may need to be removed or rectified before new carpentry is installed.
However, the actual cost depends on what is discovered and what the homeowner wants to retain.
5. Appliances and Fixtures
Indicative cost: S$3,000–8,000+
Appliance costs can vary considerably depending on brand, model and specifications.
Your kitchen budget may include:
- Hob
- Cooker hood
- Built-in oven
- Refrigerator
- Sink
- Tap
- Water filter
- Other kitchen fixtures
It is important to decide appliance dimensions early because built-in appliances affect cabinet dimensions and installation.
What Makes a Kitchen Renovation More Expensive?
Two kitchens in the same type of HDB flat can have very different renovation costs. The most common cost drivers include:
More Custom Carpentry
Additional cabinets, tall units, full-height storage and customised internal fittings increase both material and installation requirements.
Premium Countertops
Quartz and other premium surfaces generally cost more than basic countertop options.
Hacking and Retiling
Removing existing finishes and installing new tiles adds demolition, disposal, preparation and installation work.
Plumbing Relocation
Changing the position of the sink or other plumbing points can increase the scope of work.
Additional Electrical Points
New appliances, lighting and kitchen equipment may require additional electrical work.
Layout Changes
Changing the existing kitchen layout can involve multiple trades instead of carpentry alone.
Premium Hardware and Accessories
Soft-close systems, specialised drawers, pull-outs and other storage mechanisms can increase the overall cabinet cost.
Kitchen Renovation Cost by Flat Type
BTO kitchens generally start from a newer base, so the renovation scope can be more predictable than an older resale kitchen. For planning purposes, the indicative BTO kitchen renovation ranges are:
- 3-room BTO: S$8,000–18,000
- 4-room BTO: S$10,000–20,000
- 5-room BTO: S$12,000–25,000
The final cost depends on how much carpentry you require, your countertop selection, appliances, electrical work and other finishing requirements. If you are planning the layout of a new BTO kitchen, see our BTO kitchen design guide for practical layout and design considerations.
Resale HDB Kitchen Renovation Cost
Resale kitchen renovation can cost more than a BTO project when the existing kitchen requires removal, rectification or additional building services work.
Indicative resale kitchen ranges are:
- 3-room resale: S$12,000–25,000+
- 4-room resale: S$15,000–28,000
- 5-room resale: S$18,000–45,000+
The difference is not simply because the flat is resale.
A resale kitchen may have:
- Existing cabinets to remove
- Old tiles to hack
- Existing plumbing that needs adjustment
- Older electrical installations
- Uneven or damaged surfaces
- Water damage behind existing cabinets
- Additional rectification work
The actual renovation cost therefore depends on the condition of the existing kitchen and the scope you choose. For a detailed breakdown, see our resale kitchen renovation guide.
Hidden or Additional Costs to Consider
A renovation quotation should clearly show what is included and what is excluded. Depending on the project, additional costs may come from:
- Electrical upgrades
- Additional plumbing
- Hacking and debris disposal
- Surface rectification
- Additional tiling or masonry
- Appliance integration
- Protection works
- Changes requested after the quotation is finalised
Instead of automatically adding a fixed percentage to your budget, ask the contractor which parts of the quotation are confirmed and which items may depend on site conditions. This is particularly important for resale kitchens, where existing conditions may not be fully visible until old cabinets or finishes are removed.
How to Save on Your Kitchen Renovation
You do not necessarily need to reduce quality to control your renovation budget. Here are several practical ways to manage costs:
Keep the Existing Layout Where Practical
Keeping the sink, hob and other major services in their existing positions can reduce plumbing and electrical changes.
Avoid Unnecessary Hacking
If existing tiles or surfaces are still suitable, discuss whether they can be retained or overlaid instead of completely removed.
Plan Appliances Before Cabinet Fabrication
Confirm appliance dimensions before finalising your kitchen cabinets. This reduces the risk of modifications later.
Prioritise Storage
Spend your budget on storage solutions you will actually use rather than adding unnecessary accessories.
Compare Materials Carefully
Different cabinet and countertop materials can have a significant effect on the final quotation. Ask what material grade, finish and hardware are included instead of comparing quotations based only on the headline price.
Kitchen Renovation Process
A typical kitchen renovation involves several stages:
- Consultation and site measurement
- Layout and 3D design
- Material and finish selection
- Itemised quotation
- Renovation and installation
- Final inspection and handover
The actual duration depends on the project scope, design complexity, renovation requirements, material readiness and installation schedule. For a more detailed breakdown, see our kitchen renovation timeline in Singapore.
HDB Kitchen Renovation Requirements
HDB renovation requirements depend on the type of work being carried out. Certain renovation and building works require prior approval or a renovation permit, while other works do not require a permit but still have to comply with HDB’s renovation guidelines.
Electrical works also have separate requirements, including the use of an EMA-licensed electrical worker where applicable. Before renovation begins, check the requirements that apply to your specific scope of work. For more details, see our HDB kitchen renovation permit requirements guide.
You can also refer to HDB’s official Application for a Renovation Permit and Important Information on Renovations.
HDB vs Condo Kitchen Renovation
The renovation scope can differ depending on the property type.
HDB
HDB kitchen renovations need to follow applicable HDB renovation requirements. Costs are usually influenced by carpentry, countertops, appliances, hacking, tiling, plumbing and electrical work.
BTO
BTO kitchens generally start from a newer base, allowing homeowners to focus more on cabinetry, storage, countertops, appliances and finishing works.
Resale HDB
Resale kitchens may require additional removal, rectification, hacking, plumbing or electrical work depending on the existing condition.
Condo
Condo kitchen renovations depend on the kitchen scope as well as the requirements set by the individual development and its management.
If you are renovating more than just the kitchen, see our full home renovation cost guide for broader renovation budgeting.
Choosing a Kitchen Renovation Contractor in Singapore
When comparing kitchen renovation contractors, do not compare only the headline quotation.
Check whether the quotation clearly states:
- Cabinet quantity and dimensions
- Material specifications
- Countertop material
- Hardware and accessories
- Installation scope
- Plumbing and electrical items
- Hacking and masonry works
- Appliances and fixtures
- Exclusions and possible additional works
- Warranty terms
It is also useful to review completed kitchen projects that are similar to your own layout and renovation scope.
If you are comparing contractors specifically, see our kitchen renovation contractor guide in Singapore.
Why Homeowners Work Directly With La Maison Carpentry
La Maison Carpentry is a BCA-registered renovation contractor providing custom kitchen, wardrobe and built-in carpentry services in Singapore. The company operates its own in-house carpentry factory, allowing homeowners to deal directly with the team involved in producing and installing their custom carpentry.
For kitchen renovation projects, the scope can include custom kitchen cabinets, countertops and related renovation works depending on the project requirements. The focus is on clear quotations, practical layouts, suitable materials and direct communication throughout the project. To discuss your kitchen requirements directly with Francis Lee, contact La Maison Carpentry for a consultation and quotation.
FAQs About Kitchen Renovation Cost Singapore
How much does a 3-room HDB kitchen renovation cost?
A 3-room HDB kitchen renovation may range from around S$8,000–18,000 for BTO and S$12,000–25,000+ for resale, depending on the kitchen layout, carpentry, materials, appliances and renovation scope.
How much does a 4-room HDB kitchen renovation cost?
A 4-room HDB kitchen renovation may range from around S$10,000–20,000 for BTO and S$15,000–28,000 for resale. The final price depends on cabinetry, countertop material, hacking, plumbing, electrical work and appliances.
How much does a 5-room HDB kitchen renovation cost?
A 5-room HDB kitchen renovation may range from around S$12,000–25,000 for BTO and S$18,000–45,000+ for resale, depending on the renovation scope and materials selected.
Why can a resale kitchen renovation cost more than a BTO?
Resale kitchens may require additional work such as removing existing cabinets, hacking, rectification, plumbing adjustments, electrical work or repairs to existing surfaces. The actual difference depends on the condition of the kitchen rather than a fixed percentage.
What is usually included in a kitchen renovation?
Depending on the project, kitchen renovation can include custom cabinetry, countertops, backsplash or tiling, plumbing, electrical work, appliance installation and related renovation works. The exact scope should be clearly stated in the quotation.
How can I reduce my kitchen renovation cost?
Keeping the existing layout, avoiding unnecessary hacking, comparing material options, planning appliances before cabinet fabrication and prioritising essential storage can help control renovation costs.
How long does a kitchen renovation take in Singapore?
The duration depends on the scope, design, renovation requirements, material readiness and installation schedule. For a detailed stage-by-stage explanation, see our kitchen renovation timeline guide.
Do I need a permit to renovate my HDB kitchen?
Some HDB renovation and building works require prior approval or a renovation permit, while other works are subject to HDB renovation guidelines without requiring a permit. Electrical works also have separate requirements. The exact requirements depend on the work being carried out.
For the latest requirements, refer to HDB’s official renovation guidelines and our HDB kitchen renovation permit guide.
Planning a Kitchen Renovation in Singapore?
Every kitchen is different, so an online price range can only be a starting point. Your actual renovation cost depends on your kitchen measurements, layout, carpentry requirements, countertop, appliances, renovation works and material choices. If you are looking for professional kitchen remodeling services in Singapore, you can learn more about our kitchen renovation services.
For an itemised quotation based on your actual kitchen, contact La Maison Carpentry and speak directly with Francis Lee.
Call / WhatsApp Francis Lee: +65 9663 6305
No vague lump-sum estimate. Discuss your kitchen requirements first, then decide on the scope that fits your home and budget.