Guide

Renovation quote terms, explained

Contractors describe the same work in different words. This is what each term means, and what to check when the same item appears in two quotes at two prices.

Hacking & masonry

Breaking out and removing existing finishes — tiles, walls, or built-in structures — before new work starts. Usually one…

A levelling layer of cement and sand laid over the slab before tiles or vinyl go down.…

A membrane applied in bathrooms, kitchens and balconies before tiling to stop water reaching the slab.…

Tiling & flooring

Supplying and laying floor or wall tiles. Homogeneous and porcelain are the usual choices in Singapore homes.…

Carpentry

Built-in cabinetry — kitchen cabinets, wardrobes, vanities, feature walls. Usually the largest single cost in a renovati…

The kitchen counter surface, commonly quartz, solid surface or sintered stone.…

Electrical

Electrical works

Power points, lighting points, concealed wiring, and distribution board work.…

Distribution board

The consumer unit housing your circuit breakers. Older flats often need an upgrade when load increases.…

Plumbing & sanitary

Water points, waste pipes, and sanitary fittings — including relocating them when a layout changes.…

Ceiling & partition

A dropped plasterboard ceiling, often used to conceal ducting or house cove lighting.…

Painting

Preparing and painting walls and ceilings, usually quoted as two coats for the whole unit.…

General & site costs

Haulage and disposal

Carting away debris and old fittings, and disposal fees.…

Protection works

Covering floors, lifts and corridors during works, and setting up the site.…

Renovation permit

HDB or MCST approval for the works, including any submission fees.…

Aircon

Installing or relocating fan coil units, piping and drainage.…

Carpentry hardware

Hardware brands

Blum, Hettich, Häfele, Higold, DTC — and why the brand changes what a per-foot rate means.