Why Trust MoneySmart?In 2026, the cost of renovating your HDB flat in Singapore varies significantly depending on the flat’s size, whether it’s a new BTO or a resale unit, and how extensive your renovation plans are. For reference, a moderate 4-room flat renovation averages about $45,000 to $55,000, providing a useful benchmark before exploring the specific ranges for different flat sizes.
Below is a breakdown of estimated renovation cost ranges for 3-, 4-, and 5-room flats, so you can better plan and benchmark your renovation budget for the coming year.
Average renovation costs by flat type (2026)
Flat Type | New BTO Flat (Estimated) | Resale HDB Flat (Estimated) |
3-Room | $36,100 – $57,000 | $40,000 – $90,000 |
4-Room | $51,000 – $70,000 | $55,000 – $85,000 |
5-Room | $62,000 – $82,400 | $70,000 – $100,000+ |
BTO renovations are generally cheaper since the unit is a blank slate.
Resale renovations usually sit 20–40% higher due to extra works like demolition, rewiring, and updating old fixtures.
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Key cost drivers
Property age: Resale flats are typically 20–40% more expensive than new BTOs due to hidden works such as:
Hacking existing tiles: $400 – $700 per area
Rewiring: $4,000 – $8,000
Plumbing upgrades: $1,500 – $3,500
Plastering: $1,700 – $4,700
Carpentry: One of the largest budget categories, especially for feature walls, full-height wardrobes, and kitchen cabinets. Custom carpentry for a large flat ranges $12,000–$28,000.
Flooring & masonry: Upgrading from basic vinyl ($4–$8 psf) to luxury tile or marble ($20–$35 psf) increases costs. Hacking and relaying floors in multiple rooms can quickly add thousands.
Kitchen & bathrooms (wet works): Kitchens and bathrooms are the most expensive rooms to renovate due to waterproofing, plumbing, and specialist tiling. A complete kitchen renovation typically costs $8,900–$15,000, while two bathrooms might range $10,000–$20,000.
Layout changes: Moving walls or opening up spaces adds to costs for permits, professional fees, and construction.
Budgeting tips
Set aside a buffer: Always keep a contingency fund of 10–15% on top of your estimated budget for surprises such as hidden pipes or faulty wiring.
Consider a renovation loan: A renovation loan allows you to fund upgrades without dipping into your savings. Compare the best renovation loan options on MoneySmart.
Using a personal loan for non-renovation costs: A personal loan is more flexible than a renovation loan, as it is not limited to renovation works and can cover loose and movable items such as furniture, appliances, and décor.
Understand loan limits: Most bank renovation loans are capped at $30,000, with typical interest rates between 3.5% and 6% p.a.
Overlay tiles instead of full hacking: In resale bathrooms, overlaying new tiles over existing ones can save 10–20% versus a full hack and replacement.
Phase your renovation: Prioritise must-do areas first, and consider finishing less urgent works later as budget allows.
Compare contractors: Get multiple quotes from HDB-approved firms and ask for clear, itemised breakdowns.
Leverage HDB schemes: Use Optional Component Schemes (OCS) for essential fittings if available.
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