A kitchen renovation is one of the most significant projects a homeowner can take on. It disrupts daily life for weeks, involves multiple trades, and requires decisions about materials and layout that you will live with for a long time. This guide is meant to give you a realistic picture of what the process looks like, what it costs, and what questions to ask before you sign anything.
Setting a realistic budget ¶
In the Greater Toronto Area, a mid-range kitchen renovation typically runs between $18,000 and $45,000 for a standard-sized kitchen. A full custom rebuild with high-end cabinetry, stone countertops, and new appliances can exceed $80,000. The biggest variables are cabinetry (which can account for 40 to 50 percent of the total cost) and whether you are moving plumbing or electrical. If the sink stays where it is and the panel does not need upgrading, costs stay more predictable.
Understanding the permit requirements ¶
Not every kitchen renovation requires a permit, but many do. Moving or adding electrical circuits, relocating plumbing, or removing a wall all trigger permit requirements under the Ontario Building Code. A contractor who tells you permits are not necessary for this kind of work is either mistaken or cutting corners. Unpermitted work can create problems when you sell the home and may not be covered by your home insurance if something goes wrong.
Material lead times and how they affect your schedule ¶
Custom cabinetry from suppliers like Deslaurier typically has a six to ten week lead time from order to delivery. Semi-custom lines run four to six weeks. Stock cabinets from a big-box retailer are available immediately but offer less flexibility in sizing and finish. Countertop fabrication in quartz or granite usually takes two to three weeks after the template is cut. Planning your material orders around these lead times is one of the most important things a contractor can do to keep a project on schedule.
What to look for in a renovation contractor ¶
Ask for a written, itemized estimate. Ask who will be on site every day and whether the contractor uses their own employees or day-labour subcontractors. Ask how they handle unexpected costs. Ask to see a sample contract. A contractor who is reluctant to answer any of these questions clearly is worth being cautious about. References from completed projects in your area are also worth requesting.
Living through a kitchen renovation ¶
Most homeowners stay in their homes during a kitchen renovation. Set up a temporary kitchen in another room with a microwave, kettle, and mini-fridge. Expect the project to take four to eight weeks for a full renovation. Dust containment measures like ZipWall barriers help significantly, but some disruption is unavoidable. The end of the project, when the countertops go in and the appliances are connected, tends to happen quickly and the result is worth the weeks of inconvenience.
If you are in the early stages of planning a kitchen renovation in Oakville, Burlington, Mississauga, or anywhere else in the GTA, we are happy to do a free site visit and give you a realistic estimate. You can find our contact details on the get in touch about your project page.