Many homeowners in Singapore ask the same question every year:“Why does renovation keep getting more expensive?”
The short answer is — renovation costs don’t increase randomly. They rise due to structural, labour, material, and regulatory factors that compound year after year.
This article explains why renovation prices increase annually in Singapore, and what homeowners can do to plan smartly before the new year.
Why Do Renovation Costs Increase Every Year?
Renovation costs in Singapore typically rise 3–8% annually, depending on market conditions. These increases are driven by several long-term factors.
1️⃣ Rising Labour Costs in Singapore
Skilled renovation labour — carpenters, electricians, tilers, plumbers — has become increasingly scarce.
Key reasons:
- Tighter foreign manpower regulations
- Higher levies and compliance costs
- Increased demand from residential and commercial projects
These costs are unavoidable and are reflected in renovation pricing across the industry.
2️⃣ Material Prices Increase Almost Every Year
Common renovation materials such as:
- Carpentry boards
- Laminates
- Quartz & sintered stone
- Tiles & fittings
are heavily affected by:
- Global supply chain disruptions
- Currency fluctuations
- Higher transportation and import costs
Even a small increase in material prices can significantly impact total renovation costs — especially for carpentry-heavy HDB resale projects.
3️⃣ Older Homes Cost More to Renovate (Especially HDB Resale)
HDB resale flats often require:
- More hacking
- Rewiring of old electrical systems
- Replacement of aging plumbing
- Floor levelling and rectification works
As flats age, renovation becomes more labour-intensive and less predictable, which increases overall costs.
4️⃣ Compliance, Permits & Risk Management
Renovation today involves stricter:
- HDB renovation guidelines
- Safety and site management standards
- Project documentation and supervision
Working with an Housing & Development Board-licensed interior design firm means proper compliance — but it also adds to operational costs that didn’t exist years ago.
5️⃣ GST & Operating Costs Continue to Rise
In recent years, Goods and Services Tax (GST) has increased, affecting:
- Materials
- Subcontractor services
- Logistics and suppliers
These increases eventually flow into renovation pricing across the market, regardless of firm size.
Will Renovation Costs Increase Again in 2026?
Based on industry trends, yes.
Most interior design firms in Singapore review pricing at the start of each new year to account for:
- Updated labour rates
- New supplier pricing
- Increased GST and overheads
This is why many homeowners choose to renovate before the new year begins, rather than postponing.
What Can Homeowners Do to Manage Rising Renovation Costs?
Here are practical steps homeowners can take:
- Lock in renovation pricing earlier
- Finalise material selections upfront
- Avoid last-minute scope changes
- Work with a transparent, experienced firm
Timing matters more than many homeowners realise.
Year-End Special: 9% Instant Discount on Renovation (Limited Time)
To help homeowners beat upcoming price adjustments, Dreamakers Interior is offering a limited-time 9% off renovation promotion.
What This Means for You
- 9% instant discount off your renovation cost
- Applicable to HDB resale, BTO, and kitchen renovations
- Pricing locked in before the new year begins
This offer is time-limited and available only for confirmed projects before 2026, while slots are still open.
Why We’re Doing This
As an HDB-licensed interior design firm, Dreamakers Interior believes in:
- Transparent pricing
- Practical renovation planning
- Helping homeowners make informed decisions
This 9% discount promotion is designed to help homeowners offset rising costs, not rush into unnecessary renovations.
Planning a Renovation Soon?
If you’re considering renovating:
- This year vs next year
- Or comparing renovation costs
The best first step is clarity.
Send us your floor plan and we’ll provide:
- A practical renovation assessment
- A clear, transparent quotation
- No obligation, no pressure
This is how Dreamakers Interior helps homeowners plan smart — before costs go up again.
