Resale Landed Property Renovation in Singapore: The Ultimate 2025 Guide
Renovating a resale landed property in Singapore is a dream for many homeowners. Landed homes offer space, privacy, and long-term investment potential, but most resale houses are old and need extensive upgrades. Whether you just bought a resale terrace, semi-detached, or bungalow, or you are preparing to modernise your family home, renovation is often the first step before moving in.
This article is a complete guide to landed property renovation in Singapore, covering the renovation options, approval rules, cost breakdowns, step-by-step process, and the common challenges homeowners face.
✅ Why Do Singaporeans Renovate Resale Landed Homes?
Unlike new launches, resale landed properties usually come with ageing structures, outdated interiors, and sometimes non-compliant modifications. Renovation is often necessary for:
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Modernisation – Refresh old layouts, tiles, bathrooms, and kitchens.
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Space Optimisation – Reconfigure the floor plan for bigger living areas, add study rooms, or extend kitchens.
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Safety & Compliance – Upgrade electrical wiring, plumbing, and rectify unapproved works.
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Energy Efficiency – Install solar panels, better insulation, and efficient air-conditioning systems.
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Property Value – Renovation can increase resale value by 15%–30%, making it a smart investment.
🛠️ Types of Renovation for Resale Landed Property
In Singapore, renovation scope usually falls into three categories:
1. Cosmetic Renovation (Minor Works)
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Works include painting, flooring, lighting, carpentry, and replacing fittings.
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Quick to complete and less dependent on approvals.
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Cost: $50,000 – $150,000.
2. Major Renovation (A&A – Additions & Alterations)
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Includes extending rooms, hacking walls, new bathrooms/kitchens, adding mezzanine floors, or reconfiguring space.
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Requires URA and BCA approval.
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Cost: $200,000 – $600,000.
3. Full Reconstruction / Rebuild
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Demolish and rebuild the entire property with a new layout.
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Requires a Qualified Person (QP) like an architect to submit drawings.
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Cost: $700,000 – $1.5M+ depending on land size, design, and materials.
📑 Renovation Rules & URA/BCA Approvals
Many homeowners underestimate how strict Singapore’s landed property regulations are.
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Minor Works: Repainting, changing floor tiles, or replacing windows (within approved designs) usually do not require approval.
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A&A Works: Extensions, structural changes, or modifying floor area require submission to URA & BCA.
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Rebuilds: Always need QP submission. Envelope Control guidelines will decide height, coverage, and building lines.
👉 Tip: Always ask your contractor if they are familiar with URA Envelope Control regulations. Non-compliance can lead to fines or mandatory reinstatement.
💰 Detailed Renovation Cost Breakdown
Here’s a practical cost guide for resale landed property renovation in Singapore (based on 2025 averages):
| Renovation Scope | Estimated Cost (SGD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Kitchen Renovation | $25,000 – $50,000 | Full overhaul with carpentry & appliances |
| Bathroom Renovation | $15,000 – $30,000 | Tiling, waterproofing, fittings |
| Flooring (Marble/Timber) | $20 – $35 psf | Material choice matters |
| Electrical & Plumbing | $20,000 – $50,000 | Rewiring, piping, lighting |
| Built-in Carpentry | $400 – $600 per ft run | Wardrobes, cabinets, TV consoles |
| Painting & Finishes | $15,000 – $30,000 | Internal & external |
| Outdoor/Facade Works | $30,000 – $80,000 | Roofing, fencing, landscaping |
🏗️ Step-by-Step Renovation Journey
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Property Survey – Inspect structural condition, existing approvals, and hidden defects.
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Design Consultation – Plan new layouts, interior styles, and budget with designers.
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Approval Stage – QP submits plans for URA/BCA clearance if A&A or rebuild.
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Demolition & Hacking – Remove old tiles, walls, and outdated structures.
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Structural & MEP Works – Reinforcement, wiring, plumbing, and air-con systems.
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Interior Carpentry – Built-in wardrobes, kitchen cabinets, feature walls.
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Finishing Touches – Painting, lighting, flooring, landscaping.
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Final Handover – Inspection for compliance, defects rectification, move-in.
⚠️ Common Challenges in Resale Landed Renovation
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Hidden Issues: Termite infestations, roof leaks, weak foundations.
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Approval Delays: URA/BCA may take months for approval.
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Unexpected Costs: Rectifying illegal extensions or upgrading structure.
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Contractor Problems: Always engage experienced landed renovation contractors.
📈 Long-Term Benefits of Renovating Resale Landed Homes
A properly renovated landed property is not just about comfort, it’s about long-term value:
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Increase market resale value.
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Reduce future repair and energy costs.
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Modernise for lifestyle needs such as home office or multi-gen living.
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Improve rental potential for investors.
📞 Talk to Our Designers
Renovating a resale landed property in Singapore is a huge but rewarding project. With the right planning, approvals, and experienced contractors, your old house can become a dream home.
👉 For professional guidance and transparent pricing, contact SpeedyDecor.com Pte Ltd today.
Call or WhatsApp our designer at +65 8839 3899 for a free consultation.
