BTO Renovation Package Singapore: Complete Guide 2026
BTO Renovation Package Singapore: Complete Guide 2026
Collecting your BTO keys is one of Singapore's most exciting milestones. What comes next — the renovation — can feel overwhelming. This guide covers everything you need to know about BTO renovation packages in Singapore, from what HDB provides to how much you should budget.
What HDB Provides in a New BTO Flat
Before hiring an interior designer (ID) or contractor, understand what your new BTO flat comes with:
Included:
- Freshly painted white walls
- Basic sanitary fittings (toilet bowl, sink, shower head)
- Electrical wiring, switches, and sockets
- Main door and bedroom doors
- Window frames (but no grilles)
Not included:
- Flooring (bare screed concrete)
- Kitchen cabinets and appliances
- Air conditioning units
- Bedroom wardrobes
- Feature walls, tiles, and finishes
- Lighting fixtures beyond bare wiring
This means the majority of your renovation budget goes towards these "empty" items.
Average BTO Renovation Costs in Singapore (2026)
| Flat Type | Budget | Mid-Range | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2-Room Flexi | S$20K–30K | S$30K–45K | S$45K+ |
| 3-Room | S$30K–42K | S$42K–58K | S$58K+ |
| 4-Room | S$40K–55K | S$55K–72K | S$72K+ |
| 5-Room | S$50K–65K | S$65K–85K | S$85K+ |
Estimates based on Singapore market rates, 2026. Actual costs depend on scope, materials, and contractor.
For a more detailed line-by-line view, see our 2026 guide to renovation costs in Singapore, and if you need to spread payments out, read about HDB renovation loan options.
Types of BTO Renovation Packages
1. Full Renovation Package
A complete renovation from bare unit to move-in ready. Typically includes:
- Flooring (vinyl, tiles, or timber)
- Kitchen cabinets, countertop, and hood/hob
- Bathrooms tiling and fittings
- Built-in wardrobes
- Feature walls and painting
- Lighting installation
- Air conditioning
Best for: First-time homeowners who want a hassle-free, cohesive renovation.
2. Essential Package
Covers only the must-haves — flooring, kitchen, and bathrooms. Excludes carpentry and extras.
Best for: Budget-conscious homeowners or those doing DIY for secondary items.
3. Custom / A La Carte
You pick and choose individual items. More control, but requires more project management on your end.
Best for: Homeowners with a clear vision and time to manage the process.
How to Choose Between an ID and a Contractor
Interior Designer (ID):
- Provides design services + coordinates all renovation work
- Costs 15–20% more than direct contractor
- Recommended if you want a cohesive, designed outcome
- Look for CaseTrust-accredited firms (HDB-registered)
Contractor:
- Handles execution — no design consultation
- More affordable for straightforward renovations
- You manage the design, materials, and scheduling
- Check HDB's Directory of Renovation Contractors
Visualise Before You Commit
The biggest mistake BTO homeowners make is briefing an ID or contractor without a clear visual reference. This leads to misunderstandings, scope creep, and disappointment.
ElumiHome tip: Upload your BTO bare unit photo (taken at key collection) to ElumiHome and generate AI redesigns in your preferred style. Use these as your mood board when briefing contractors — it dramatically reduces back-and-forth and miscommunication.
BTO Renovation Timeline
| Phase | Duration | Key Actions |
|---|---|---|
| Key collection + defect check | Week 1–2 | Document defects, submit to HDB |
| Design + quotation | Week 2–6 | Brief 3 contractors, compare quotes |
| Hacking + structural work | Month 1–2 | Floor removal, wall hacking (if any) |
| Electrical + plumbing | Month 2 | Rewiring, pipe relocation (if needed) |
| Tiling + carpentry | Month 2–3 | Kitchen, bathrooms, built-ins |
| Painting + furnishing | Month 3 | Walls, lighting, aircon |
| Move in | Month 3–4 | Defect touch-ups, furniture delivery |
Common BTO Renovation Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping defect checking — HDB rectifies defects for free, but only if reported promptly
- Not getting 3 quotes — prices vary wildly for the same scope
- Prioritising aesthetics over function — storage is Singapore's #1 renovation regret
- Choosing trendy styles over timeless ones — your BTO will last 20+ years
- Not planning aircon early — the number and placement of aircon units affects all other carpentry
HDB Renovation Rules You Must Know
- All works must be done by an HDB-licensed renovation contractor
- Permit required for: hacking walls, electrical rewiring, and gas pipe installation
- Prohibited: Hacking household shelter (bomb shelter) walls
- Noise restrictions: Renovation works allowed only between 9am–5pm on weekdays and 9am–1pm on Saturdays — see the full HDB renovation timing and noise rules for details
- No works on Sundays and public holidays
Start Visualising Your BTO Today
Before spending a single dollar on contractors, see what your BTO could look like with AI interior design. ElumiHome generates stunning redesigns in 30 seconds — complete with HDB regulation checks and SGD renovation cost estimates.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is included in a BTO renovation package in Singapore?
- A BTO renovation package usually bundles essentials like flooring, kitchen cabinets, wardrobes, basic carpentry, painting, and electrical works into one price. What is included varies widely between firms, so always check the itemised scope. Appliances, loose furniture, and premium upgrades are commonly excluded.
- How much does a BTO renovation package cost?
- BTO renovation packages typically range from S$30,000–S$60,000 depending on flat size, materials, and how much carpentry is included. Entry-level packages cover the basics, while higher tiers add more carpentry and better finishes. Compare itemised quotes carefully, as a low headline price may exclude key works.
- What does HDB provide in a new BTO flat?
- A new BTO flat comes with painted walls, basic sanitary fittings, electrical wiring and sockets, and the main and bedroom doors. It does not include flooring, kitchen cabinets, wardrobes, air-conditioning, or window grilles. This is why most homeowners need a renovation package to make the flat liveable.
- Are BTO renovation packages cheaper than custom quotes?
- Packages can offer convenience and predictable pricing, but they are not always cheaper than a custom itemised quote, especially if the package includes items you do not need. Comparing a package against a tailored quote on a like-for-like basis is the best way to judge value. Always confirm exactly what is and is not covered.
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