Renovation Project Estimating Guide

Reputable. Reliable. Transparent. On Budget.

Finding a renovation company that is not only reliable and transparent in their communication, has a proven reputation of quality craftsmanship but is also able to meet budget expectations, should be at the foundation of who you ultimately choose to handle your remodel.

The cost of a renovation depends on a wide variety of factors, such as square footage, quality of materials, demolition costs, permits required, and plumbing and electrical work required just to name a few. These work and design details can quickly change a renovation from $10,000 to $80,000 and why it is important to discuss budget with the homeowner right at the start. Narrowing down the budget will give the homeowner piece of mind that the renovation will be both affordable and result in a completed renovation that meets homeowner expectations.

There are several factors that will impact the final cost of a renovation. A typical bathroom renovation may run from $15,000 to $50,000 depending on the size, scope, and quality of materials chosen. Kitchen renovations typically run from $15,000 to $50,000, starting with small budget renovations that may incorporate more affordable materials to fully customized high-end finishes in larger square-footage kitchen.

The size of the space is probably the most obvious to most homeowners. More square footage means more material costs, paint, and fixtures in the room. But small space renovation costs can vary significantly, depending on your taste. From custom fixtures and vanities or cabinets, to Italian handmade tiles, these preferences can quickly eat into your budget.

The scope of the project will also impact the total renovation cost. There is a big difference between a complete down-to-studs renovation or room re-configuration versus a simple toilet replacement or off-the shelf vanity installation. The budget will vary significantly depending on how much or little you decide to do.

The quality of materials you choose, from cabinetry, countertops, light fixtures, tiles, and faucets, will change your overall cost. High quality, durable materials may cost more but tend to provide you with a finished product that you will not only love but will last for years to come. Finding the right balance in meeting your budget while not compromising on function or quality is where your renovation specialist can guide you.

Labour costs including demolition, plumbing, electrical, tiling and installation will also impact the cost of your renovation. Licensed journeyman tradesmen will give you the peace of mind that what’s inside the walls and behind your beautiful new cabinets is not compromised. The general rule of thumb is that quality work by licensed tradesmen will be more cost effective in the long run.

Design and project planning costs will impact your budget especially if you have a complex renovation that requires significant planning time to create that perfect living space, or if you make multiple changes along the way that require reworking or building onto the initial plan. Reputable renovation companies typically provide you with a free consultation to inspect and measure your space, understand your vision, and narrow in on the budget by synchronizing your expectations with the overall project plan. They will typically provide you with a written quote based on the project scope and budget discussion but will then ask for a retainer or deposit to take the project to the planning and construction phase. Designing and creating a project plan and quote typically takes hours to put together and another reason why talking budget is so important right from the start.

Carefully choosing a renovation company for your next renovation should be based on reputation, reliability, transparency and meeting your budget. Finding a trusted partner that will listen to your ideas, clearly communicate from the planning phase to project completion, while staying on budget and on time will make your renovation stress-free and give you the new living space that you will be able to enjoy for years to come.