Home Renovations in Vancouver

About Vancouver

Reno Stars has completed over 100 renovation projects across Vancouver — from character homes in Kitsilano and Mount Pleasant to modern condos in Yaletown, Coal Harbour, and the West End. Vancouver's housing stock includes everything from pre-1950 Craftsman bungalows with knob-and-tube wiring and plaster walls to sleek glass towers built in the last decade. Each property type demands a different renovation approach, and our crew has hands-on experience with all of them.

For older homes on the East Side, we regularly handle asbestos abatement, structural upgrades to meet current seismic code, and kitchen or bathroom modernizations that respect the original character of the home. Plaster walls, fir floors, and original millwork can all be preserved or thoughtfully updated. On the West Side, projects tend to be larger-scale whole-house renovations that include reconfigured floor plans, open-concept kitchens with waterfall islands, and spa-inspired bathrooms with heated floors and curbless showers.

Condo renovations in Downtown, Yaletown, and Metrotown make up a significant portion of our Vancouver work. We are experienced navigating strata bylaws — including noise-restricted construction hours, insurance certificate requirements, elevator booking, and strata alteration agreements. Our team can handle the entire strata approval process on your behalf so you can focus on picking finishes rather than paperwork.

Real project data from our Vancouver portfolio: kitchen renovations from $14,000 (basic refresh) to $72,000 (premium custom with appliance package); bathroom renovations from $14,000 to $22,000; whole-house renovations from $23,000 to $27,000 for targeted updates. Every project includes a 3-year workmanship warranty and a detailed written quote — no surprises, no hidden fees.

Vancouver's permit requirements are among the strictest in Metro Vancouver. Any structural work, plumbing or electrical relocation, or changes to egress require a City of Vancouver building permit. We handle permit applications, schedule inspections, and ensure your renovation is code-compliant from start to finish. For heritage-designated homes, we work within Heritage Conservation guidelines to maintain facade character while modernizing interiors.

Related cost guides: [Kitchen renovation costs](/en/guides/kitchen-renovation-cost-vancouver/) | [Bathroom renovation costs](/en/guides/bathroom-renovation-cost-vancouver/) | [Basement renovation costs](/en/guides/basement-renovation-cost-vancouver/) | [Whole-house renovation costs](/en/guides/whole-house-renovation-cost-vancouver/)

Featured projects: [Vancouver renovation cost guide 2026](/en/blog/renovation-cost-vancouver-2026-complete-guide/) | [10 before & after renovation projects](/en/blog/vancouver-renovation-before-after-10-projects/) | [Commercial Renovation Costs Vancouver 2026](/en/guides/commercial-renovation-cost-vancouver/) | [Cabinet Refinishing Costs Vancouver 2026](/en/guides/cabinet-refinishing-cost-vancouver/) | [Basement Suite Conversion Costs Vancouver 2026](/en/guides/basement-suite-cost-vancouver/) | [Vancouver apartment building renovation guide](/en/blog/apartment-building-renovation-vancouver-2026/)

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See our [portfolio of Vancouver renovation projects](/en/projects/) or browse our [renovation design gallery](/en/design/).

## Vancouver Building Permit Costs (2026)

The City of Vancouver charges permit fees based on construction value. For a typical kitchen renovation ($30,000 construction value), expect a building permit fee of approximately $500–$900, plus a separate plumbing permit ($150–$250) if you are relocating drains or adding a gas line. Structural work — such as removing a load-bearing wall — requires an engineer-stamped drawing ($600–$1,200) in addition to permit fees. Heritage homes with a Category B or C rating require a Heritage Alteration Permit alongside the standard building permit; our team prepares and submits all application documents.

Permit processing in Vancouver currently takes 4–8 weeks for standard residential projects. We recommend initiating permit applications 6–8 weeks before your target construction start.

## Frequently Asked Questions — Vancouver Renovations

**How much does a building permit cost for a kitchen renovation in Vancouver?** For a kitchen renovation with $25,000–$40,000 in declared construction value, a City of Vancouver building permit typically costs $450–$850. If your renovation moves plumbing (e.g., relocating the sink or adding a dishwasher drain), add a separate plumbing permit ($150–$250). Electrical permits for panel upgrades or new circuits are handled directly by your licensed electrician. We provide permit-ready drawings and manage all City submissions on your behalf so you can focus on choosing finishes.

**Do I need strata approval for a renovation in a Vancouver condo?** Yes — virtually every renovation in a strata-titled Vancouver condo requires written strata approval before construction begins. You will need to submit a renovation request including contractor credentials, proof of $5M CGL insurance, a detailed scope of work, and a noise management plan. Many stratas also require a damage deposit ($500–$2,000) and restrict work to 8am–5pm weekdays. Approval typically takes 2–6 weeks depending on when the strata council meets. We prepare and submit all required strata documentation as part of your project.

**Can I renovate a heritage-designated home in Vancouver?** Yes — heritage-designated homes can be renovated, but they require a Heritage Alteration Permit in addition to standard building permits for exterior changes and certain interior modifications. Interior renovations (kitchens, bathrooms) typically have significant flexibility within heritage guidelines. We have successfully renovated character homes throughout Strathcona, Grandview-Woodland, and Shaughnessy — preserving original fir floors, plaster crown moulding, and period millwork while modernizing mechanical systems and adding contemporary finishes behind the scenes.