Hard 6-12 weeks typical project $15,000-$60,000+ CAD

Kitchen Renovation Planning Guide

Plan your kitchen renovation from budget to completion with this comprehensive guide for Ontario homeowners.

Kitchen Remodel — Start to Finish

Home RenoVision DIY · 4M+ views

What This Video Covers

Complete kitchen renovation walkthrough from demo to finish
Budgeting strategies and where to save vs splurge
The work triangle layout explained for maximum efficiency
Permit requirements and when to hire sub-trades

Safety Warnings

All electrical, plumbing, and gas work during a kitchen renovation must be done by licensed tradespeople. Your GC should coordinate these sub-trades.
If your home was built before 1990, test for asbestos in flooring, ceiling tiles, and insulation before demolition begins.
Ensure adequate ventilation during demolition and finishing. Construction dust and VOCs from new materials can cause respiratory issues.

Step-by-Step Guide

Set a realistic budget

Ontario kitchen renovations typically cost $15,000-$60,000+. Allocate 40% for cabinets, 15% for countertops, 15% for labour, 10% for appliances, 10% for flooring, and 10% for contingency. Never skip the contingency fund.

Define your must-haves vs nice-to-haves

List everything you want, then prioritize. Must-haves might include more counter space, better lighting, or updated appliances. Nice-to-haves might include a kitchen island or pot filler. This keeps scope creep under control.

Research and hire an HCRA-licensed contractor

For structural kitchen work in Ontario, use an HCRA-licensed contractor. Search ProScore for kitchen remodeling contractors with verified credentials. Get 3-5 detailed quotes and check references.

Plan the layout (the work triangle)

The most efficient kitchen layout places the sink, stove, and refrigerator in a triangle. Consider traffic flow, storage accessibility, and counter workspace. A good designer can maximize even small kitchens.

Select materials and finishes

Visit showrooms to see and touch materials before committing. Consider durability, maintenance, and budget for countertops (quartz, granite, laminate), cabinets (custom, semi-custom, stock), and flooring.

Understand the permit requirements

You need building permits for structural changes, electrical work, plumbing relocation, and gas line work. Your contractor should handle permits. Unpermitted work can create major problems when selling your home.

Set up a temporary kitchen

You will be without your kitchen for weeks. Set up a temporary station with a microwave, kettle, toaster oven, and paper plates in another room. Budget for more takeout during construction.

Expect the unexpected

Once walls are opened, you may discover old wiring, water damage, or structural issues. This is why a 10% contingency fund is essential. Stay flexible and communicate openly with your contractor.