How Long Does Commercial Renovation Take in Singapore?
Complete 2026 guide to commercial renovation timelines, project phases, and scheduling strategies for Singapore businesses.
Quick Timeline Reference
Small Office
2-4 weeks
500-1,500 sqft
Retail Store
3-6 weeks
1,000-3,000 sqft
Restaurant
6-12 weeks
Including kitchen
Large Office
8-16 weeks
5,000+ sqft
Complete Project Timeline Breakdown
Phase 1: Planning & Design
Duration: 2-4 weeks
- • Initial consultation and site survey (1-2 days)
- • Design development and space planning (1-2 weeks)
- • Permit application submission (3-5 days)
- • Final quote and contract signing (3-5 days)
Phase 2: Permits & Approvals
Duration: 2-6 weeks
- • BCA building plan approval (2-4 weeks)
- • Fire safety clearance (1-2 weeks)
- • NEA/PUB approvals if required (2-3 weeks)
- • Management corporation approval (1 week)
Phase 3: Material Procurement
Duration: 1-3 weeks
- • Material ordering and delivery scheduling (3-7 days)
- • Custom fabrication items (1-2 weeks)
- • Equipment and fixture delivery (5-10 days)
- • Site preparation and storage setup (2-3 days)
Phase 4: Construction & Fitout
Duration: 2-12 weeks
- • Demolition and site preparation (3-5 days)
- • Structural modifications (1-2 weeks)
- • MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing) rough-in (1-2 weeks)
- • Partitioning and drywall (1-2 weeks)
- • Flooring and ceiling installation (1-2 weeks)
- • Painting and finishing work (1-2 weeks)
- • Final MEP connections and testing (3-5 days)
Phase 5: Completion & Handover
Duration: 1-2 weeks
- • Final inspections and testing (2-3 days)
- • Authority approvals and certifications (3-5 days)
- • Defects rectification (2-5 days)
- • Handover and documentation (1-2 days)
Factors That Affect Project Duration
Factors That Speed Up Projects
Clear Project Scope
Detailed plans and specifications reduce changes
Standard Finishes
Using readily available materials and fixtures
Experienced Contractors
BCA-registered contractors with proven track records
Minimal Structural Changes
Working within existing layout constraints
Factors That Delay Projects
Complex Permit Requirements
Multiple authority approvals for specialized uses
Custom Materials
Special orders and fabrication add 2-4 weeks
Structural Modifications
Engineering approvals and specialized work
Change Orders
Mid-project modifications can add weeks
Detailed Timeline by Business Type
Office Renovation Timeline
Small Office (500-1,500 sqft)
- • Planning: 1-2 weeks
- • Permits: 2-3 weeks
- • Construction: 2-3 weeks
- • Total: 5-8 weeks
Medium Office (1,500-5,000 sqft)
- • Planning: 2-3 weeks
- • Permits: 3-4 weeks
- • Construction: 4-6 weeks
- • Total: 9-13 weeks
Large Office (5,000+ sqft)
- • Planning: 3-4 weeks
- • Permits: 4-6 weeks
- • Construction: 8-12 weeks
- • Total: 15-22 weeks
Retail Store Timeline
Small Retail (500-1,000 sqft)
- • Planning: 1-2 weeks
- • Permits: 2-3 weeks
- • Construction: 2-4 weeks
- • Total: 5-9 weeks
Medium Retail (1,000-3,000 sqft)
- • Planning: 2-3 weeks
- • Permits: 3-4 weeks
- • Construction: 4-6 weeks
- • Total: 9-13 weeks
Large Retail (3,000+ sqft)
- • Planning: 3-4 weeks
- • Permits: 4-5 weeks
- • Construction: 6-10 weeks
- • Total: 13-19 weeks
Restaurant & F&B Timeline
Café/Quick Service
- • Planning: 2-3 weeks
- • Permits (including NEA): 4-6 weeks
- • Construction: 6-8 weeks
- • Total: 12-17 weeks
Full-Service Restaurant
- • Planning: 3-4 weeks
- • Permits (multiple authorities): 6-8 weeks
- • Construction: 10-16 weeks
- • Total: 19-28 weeks
Singapore-Specific Timeline Considerations
Public Holiday Impact
Singapore's public holidays can affect project timelines:
Major Holiday Periods
- • Chinese New Year: +1-2 weeks delay
- • Deepavali/Hari Raya: +3-5 days delay
- • Christmas/New Year: +1 week delay
Permit Processing Delays
- • Government office closures
- • Reduced inspection availability
- • Material delivery delays
Working Hours Restrictions
- • Residential areas: 9 AM - 6 PM (Mon-Sat)
- • Commercial buildings: 7 AM - 7 PM (Mon-Sat)
- • No noisy work on Sundays/holidays
- • Hacking works: Special hour restrictions
Authority Approval Times
- • BCA building plans: 2-4 weeks
- • Fire safety clearance: 1-2 weeks
- • NEA food establishment: 3-4 weeks
- • Management corporation: 1-2 weeks
How to Accelerate Your Project Timeline
Pre-Project Preparation
- 1. Finalize scope early: Complete design and specifications before starting permits
- 2. Hire experienced contractors: BCA-registered contractors familiar with local processes
- 3. Submit permits early: Start permit applications before finalizing contractor selection
- 4. Plan material procurement: Order long-lead items during permit phase
During Construction
- 1. Maintain clear communication: Regular project meetings and progress updates
- 2. Avoid scope changes: Minimize modifications during construction phase
- 3. Coordinate inspections: Schedule authority inspections in advance
- 4. Parallel work streams: Overlap tasks where possible (MEP with partitioning)
Get Realistic Timeline Estimates
Connect with experienced BCA contractors for accurate project scheduling
Timeline FAQs
Can I operate my business during renovation?
It depends on the scope. Phased renovations allow partial operation, but full fitouts typically require temporary closure. Discuss phasing options with your contractor to minimize business disruption.
What happens if the project takes longer than estimated?
Good contracts include liquidated damages clauses. However, delays due to permit issues, change orders, or unforeseen conditions may extend timelines. Clear scope definition minimizes overruns.
How accurate are initial timeline estimates?
Experienced contractors can estimate within ±15-20% for well-defined projects. Complex projects with multiple authorities may have greater variance due to approval uncertainties.
Should I plan renovations around peak seasons?
Yes. Avoid Chinese New Year period (Jan-Feb) and year-end holidays for faster completion. Material availability and contractor schedules are better during off-peak periods.