Planning an office upgrade?
This office renovation checklist is built for real-world use – clear, practical, and ready to go. Whether you’re managing it solo or coordinating with a contractor, this checklist covers every key step without the fluff.
Let’s get your space transformed without the stress.
Office Renovation Checklist
If you’re handling an office renovation in Singapore, this checklist will help you avoid nasty surprises, stay within budget, and deliver a workspace your team actually wants to work in.
Pre-Planning
- Clarify renovation goals (e.g. hot-desking, more meeting rooms, hybrid-friendly layout)
- Get approval from company leadership and finance
- Set budget buffer for unexpected costs (10–15%)
- Check lease terms: get landlord approval if needed
- Confirm renovation period (day/night work restrictions in office buildings)
- Notify your building management (MCST or landlord) early
- Appoint a main point-of-contact internally
Design & Layout
- Hire a commercial interior designer
- Request 2D and 3D mockups for visual clarity
- Plan power outlet locations based on desk layout
- Allocate space for storage, lockers, and printing area
- Consider acoustic panels if open-plan
- Review aircon needs: add or reposition units if layout changes
- Plan for greenery or biophilic elements (popular in SG now)
Permits & Compliance
- Submit renovation application to building management
- Check URA conservation guidelines (if applicable)
- Apply for SCDF Fire Safety Certificate (FSC) if needed
- Ensure materials meet local fire-rating standards
- Engage a PE (Professional Engineer) if structural or M&E works involved
- Schedule inspections early to avoid delays
Hiring Contractors
- Shortlist BCA-registered contractors (esp. for bigger works)
- Check case studies and visit completed projects if possible
- Confirm who handles permits and submission (you or them?)
- Ask for a detailed work schedule (not just a vague “2-3 weeks”)
- Make payment milestone-based
- Ensure insurance is covered (contractor’s liability & workman’s comp)
Furniture, Fixtures & Tech
- Measure lift and loading bay access for bulky deliveries
- Order early: some lead times for furniture are 4–6 weeks
- Buy surge protectors for high-value equipment
- Check with ID about built-in vs loose furniture (impacts reinstatement later)
- Ensure power sockets and data points match workstation plan
- Secure internet (StarHub/M1/Singtel)
- Plan location for wifi access points
During Renovation
- Schedule weekly check-ins with contractor
- Keep a shared WhatsApp or Telegram group for fast updates
- Monitor noise levels: some office buildings restrict heavy works to after-hours
- Take photos of progress for record-keeping
- Track variations separately, they often blow up costs
- Start planning move logistics 2–3 weeks before completion
Post-Renovation
- Do a joint inspection with contractor before handover
- Check for: paint streaks, cable alignment, lighting consistency, faulty sockets
- Test all systems: lights, aircon, Wi-Fi, phone lines, fire alarms
- Request as-built drawings and warranty documents
- File SCDF or MCST completion forms (if required)
- Plan phased move-in to reduce disruption
- Schedule a deep clean before team returns
- Send out welcome pack or office intro guide to staff
Need Help with Your Office Renovation?
Handling everything on your own can get overwhelming.
Design plans, permits, timelines, contractor issues – it’s a lot.
If you’d rather have someone experienced take the lead, we’re here to help.
We’re an office renovation contractor in Singapore who keeps things clear and straightforward. No pushy upsells, no last-minute surprises – just honest work, delivered on time.
Let’s make this renovation a whole lot easier.
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