Renovating
What is a Renovation Contractor… And How Do I Work With One?
Get expert advice on why you might need to work with a renovation contractor for your new home
In this series we help you define the different types of professionals you will come across as a new homeowner, whether that’s an interior designer, architect or a renovation contractor.
A renovation contractor has particular skills
A renovation contractor can be someone who does the painting and tiling; change fittings and installs new kitchen cabinets. He can also work with you and/or your interior designer or architect to totally change the plan and structure of your home.
According to Ifa Indra, from Singapore’s DB Studio, one of the most important things to decide when it comes to choosing a contractor is deciding which is more important: cost or design. “Are you ready to compromise on either one? If price is more important, and you are willing to compromise on design, then choosing a contractor, without an interior designer, is best for you,” explains Mr Indra.
A renovation contractor can be someone who does the painting and tiling; change fittings and installs new kitchen cabinets. He can also work with you and/or your interior designer or architect to totally change the plan and structure of your home.
According to Ifa Indra, from Singapore’s DB Studio, one of the most important things to decide when it comes to choosing a contractor is deciding which is more important: cost or design. “Are you ready to compromise on either one? If price is more important, and you are willing to compromise on design, then choosing a contractor, without an interior designer, is best for you,” explains Mr Indra.
The contractor runs a team of craftspeople who do the work to get you the look you want. The team can include plumbers, electricians, tilers, painters, carpenters, and other specialists. Ask for a project manager or someone to oversee the timeline and costing. These days, many interior designers also operate a contracting arm. If the scope of work is huge or complicated, you should look for a team that has an architect and/or structural engineer.
Tip: Ensure that your contractor has the correct licences, insurance, and approvals – especially for HDB upgrades – organized and in place before the start of the job. Document every stage of the process.
Tip: When it comes to choosing a contractor, look at their previous work and read testimonials or online reviews.
If you are looking for a contractor, check out Houzz’s comprehensive list of professionals.
TELL US
Do you have an experience working with a contractor you wish to share?
Tip: When it comes to choosing a contractor, look at their previous work and read testimonials or online reviews.
If you are looking for a contractor, check out Houzz’s comprehensive list of professionals.
TELL US
Do you have an experience working with a contractor you wish to share?
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When it comes to changing, updating or improving your home, you will need someone to do the work - unless you already have those skills. In Singapore, particularly for HDB flats, you need to have a registered contractor, or builder, to carry out your renovation.
That’s where the renovation contractor comes in. This professional is a builder who will implement the work that needs to be done, using different skills based on the requirements of the job. He is the practical, hands-on worker.
What you can and can’t do in an HDB renovation