Do I need a permit to renovate my home in Toronto?

If your renovation includes structural changes, new plumbing, major electrical upgrades, or creates a separate dwelling, you will need a building permit in Toronto. Minor cosmetic work typically does not require a permit.

How much should I budget for a kitchen renovation in Toronto?

Expect CAD $20,000–$60,000 for a mid-range kitchen; custom or structural changes push the cost higher. Always add 10–15% contingency.

How long does a typical home renovation take in the GTA?

Simple projects can be a few weeks; full kitchen or bathroom renovations typically take 6–12 weeks; full main-floor or basement projects take longer depending on permits and scope.

Home Renovation Toronto (2025) — Costs, Permits & How to Choose the Right Contractor

Tom Albegov
6 days ago
3 min read

Planning a home renovation in Toronto? Whether you’re updating a kitchen, finishing a basement or doing a full main-floor refresh, the right planning and the right contractor change everything. This 2025 guide walks you through realistic cost ranges, permit rules specific to the GTA, realistic timelines, and an action checklist that helps you hire a reliable renovation contractor in Toronto.

How much does a home renovation in Toronto cost in 2025?

Costs depend on scope, finishes and whether you need permits. Use these ballpark ranges to plan:

Minor cosmetic refresh (paint, trim, lighting): $3,000–$12,000
Bathroom renovation (standard): $8,000–$25,000
Kitchen renovation (mid-range): $20,000–$60,000
Basement finishing: CAD $35–$75 / sq.ft. (legal suites cost more)
Full main-floor renovation / open-plan reconfiguration: $40,000–$120,000+

Pro tip: Always budget 10–15% contingency for hidden issues (moisture, framing, electrical upgrades).

Permits & code: what Toronto homeowners must know

If your project touches structure, plumbing, electrical or creates a separate dwelling, you’ll almost certainly need a building permit in Toronto (and most surrounding municipalities). Common triggers for permits:

Adding or moving walls (structural work)
Installing or relocating baths/kitchens (new plumbing)
Major electrical upgrades or new panels
Creating a legal basement suite (egress windows, separate entry)
New HVAC or gas appliance installs

Always check the City of Toronto or your local municipality’s building department before work starts — permit delays are a top cause of project overruns.

Typical timelines you should expect

Timelines are driven by scope, approvals and material lead times:

Cosmetic refresh — 1–3 weeks
Bathroom remodel — 4–10 weeks
Kitchen remodel — 6–12 weeks
Basement finishing (legal suite) — 8–20 weeks (permits & inspections add time)
Full main-floor remodel — 8–16 weeks

Block extra weeks for design, material orders and permit review.

How to choose the right renovation contractor in Toronto

Hiring the wrong contractor costs time and money. Here’s a checklist for a safe hire:

License & insurance: WSIB (where applicable), liability insurance, and municipal licences.
Portfolio & references: Ask for 3 recent Toronto/GTA projects and check Google/HomeStars reviews.
Written scope & milestones: Fixed stages, holdbacks, and start/finish dates.
Permits & inspections: Contractor should handle permit submissions or coordinate with your designer.
Communication: Weekly status updates, photos, and a single point of contact.
Warranty: Ask what’s covered and for how long.

Planning checklist (before you start)

Define “must-have” vs “nice-to-have” features
Pick finishes & fixtures early (cabinets, tile, windows)
Confirm budget + contingency (10–15%)
Get at least 2–3 written quotes with the same scope
Schedule permits and order long-lead items first (windows, custom cabinetry)
Prepare a living plan if you’ll remain in the home during construction

Local tips for Toronto & GTA projects

Neighbour considerations: For exterior work or noisy trades, notify neighbours early.
Seasonality: Exterior & roofing work is seasonal — plan accordingly.
Rebates & incentives: Check provincial or municipal incentive programs for energy upgrades (insulation, windows).
Legal suites: York Region, Vaughan and Toronto each have specific rules — design with inspections in mind.

Why our approach delivers better results (short CTA paragraph)

Triple A Contracting manages design, permits and construction from A→Z across the GTA. We focus on transparent budgets, local code compliance, and clean, on-time finishes so your home renovation in Toronto becomes an asset — not a headache.

Book a Free On-Site Estimate — Call 647-534-3388 or Request a Quote

H2 — FAQs

Q: How long does a kitchen renovation take in Toronto?A: Typically 6–12 weeks for construction, plus 2–6 weeks for design and lead times.

Q: Will renovating increase my property taxes?A: Potentially. Major additions or new habitable space (legal suites) can affect assessment. Check with MPAC and your municipal assessor.

Q: Can I live in the house during renovation?A: For small projects yes; for full-floor or major work, a temporary living plan is recommended.