Renovating a landed property in Singapore is an exciting journey, especially if it’s your forever home or a dream project you’ve been planning for years. But as with any major undertaking, it comes with its fair share of challenges. From unexpected costs to approval headaches, many homeowners find themselves overwhelmed once the work starts.

At Renologist, we’ve walked this path with many landed homeowners across Singapore, and we’ve seen where things can go wrong - and more importantly, how to avoid those costly missteps. Whether you’re reconfiguring an older terrace house or giving your bungalow a major makeover, here are five common pitfalls to watch out for.

1. Underestimating the Real Cost

It’s easy to get carried away dreaming about Italian marble, high-end kitchen appliances, or designer lighting. But what catches most people off guard are the “invisible” costs - things like structural reinforcements, waterproofing, rewiring, or even rental costs if you need to move out during renovation.

These hidden expenses can easily add up, especially for larger homes. That’s why at Renologist, we help homeowners plan their budget realistically from day one, including a recommended buffer for unexpected surprises. This way, you’re prepared - not panicking - if something unexpected turns up halfway through.

2. Skipping the Necessary Approvals

In Singapore, landed property renovations - especially when they involve structural changes, extensions, or facade updates - often require approval from the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) and sometimes even the Building and Construction Authority (BCA). Many homeowners assume these rules don’t apply if they’re not tearing down walls or adding a floor. Unfortunately, that’s not true.

Things like extending your kitchen or enclosing a balcony could still trigger the need for an A&A (Addition & Alteration) submission. Failing to get approval can mean fines, delays, or worse - being told to undo the work. That’s why we handle all regulatory submissions for our clients at Renologist. We know the URA guidelines inside-out, and we help ensure everything is done properly from the start so you don’t run into trouble later.

3. Hiring the Wrong Contractor

Choosing a contractor purely based on price can be risky - especially if they’re not properly licensed. We’ve seen homeowners stuck with half-finished projects, poor workmanship, or even contractors who disappear midway. In Singapore, contractors doing structural or building work need to be registered with BCA. If they’re not, your project could end up in violation of safety regulations.

Renologist works only with trusted, BCA-accredited partners who are familiar with landed property renovations. More importantly, we help oversee their work and coordinate timelines, so everything moves smoothly from one phase to the next. This takes a lot of the stress and guesswork off your plate.

4. Focusing on Looks Over Function

It’s tempting to start your renovation thinking about Pinterest boards and colour palettes - but the layout and flow of your home are just as important, if not more. In Singapore’s hot, humid climate, good airflow and natural light make a huge difference in how comfortable your home feels day-to-day.

We’ve seen homes that looked amazing on the surface but felt dark or stuffy because they weren’t designed with Singapore’s climate in mind. At Renologist, we take a practical approach to interior design. Before we start talking about finishes, we look at how to improve ventilation, maximise daylight, and create functional layouts that suit your lifestyle. Whether you’re a multi-gen household or a couple planning to age in place, your home should work beautifully for you.

5. Missing Out on Hidden Issues

Older landed homes - especially those built in the ’60s to ’80s - often have underlying issues like rotting wood, outdated plumbing, termite infestations, or structural cracks that only show up when you start tearing things down. If you’re not prepared, these surprises can cause major delays and blow your budget.

That’s why we always recommend a proper inspection before any work begins. At Renologist, we coordinate structural checks, drainage assessments, and even pest control inspections (yes, we’ve seen termites eat through entire beams). By uncovering these issues early, we help you factor in the necessary work and avoid nasty shocks later on.

Conclusion

Renovating a landed property can be one of the most rewarding things you’ll ever do - but only if it’s done right. The key is planning ahead, working with people who understand the ins and outs of Singapore’s rules, and not cutting corners where it counts.

At Renologist, we don’t just focus on aesthetics. We’re here to guide you through the full process - from budgeting and approval submissions to contractor coordination and interior styling. With the right team by your side, your dream home isn’t just possible - it’s achievable, practical, and built to last.

If you're also thinking about long-term value and how to get the most out of your investment, check out our guide on 8 Powerful Ways to Transform and Increase the Value of Your Landed Property. It’s full of practical ideas and inspiration to take your renovation even further.

Thinking of starting your landed home renovation soon? Let’s chat!

Posted on May 1, 2025, updated 6 months ago.