Kitchen Renovation FAQs

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How much does a Kitchen renovation cost in Vancouver?

In North Vancouver, a full kitchen renovation typically costs between $35,000 and $75,000+, depending on the size of the kitchen, the age of the home, and the level of finishes selected.

  • $35k–$45k: Mid-range renovation with new cabinets, countertops, appliances, and finishes

  • $45k–$60k: Full renovation with upgraded cabinetry, improved lighting, and better layout efficiency

  • $60k+: High-end finishes, custom cabinetry, layout changes, or structural work

Older homes often require electrical or plumbing upgrades, which can impact overall cost.


What is a realistic Budget for a kitchen renovation?

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A realistic budget for most North Vancouver kitchen renovations is around $45,000–$60,000 for a well-built, functional space using quality materials.

This typically includes:

  • Demolition and disposal

  • New cabinetry and countertops

  • Electrical and plumbing relocations and updates

  • Lighting, backsplash, and finishes

  • Labour and project coordination

Higher-end materials or layout changes will increase the overall budget.


What factors affect the cost of a kitchen renovation?

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Kitchen renovation costs are influenced by several key factors, including:

  • Cabinetry Dimensions (Standard box sizing vs custom sizes)

  • Cabinetry Box Material (Plywood, melamine or MDF)

  • Cabinet Door & Drawer Front Materials

  • Hardware and Handles

  • Countertop Materials

  • Appliance Upgrades

  • Layout Changes or Wall Removal

  • Electrical and Plumbing Requirements

  • Age of the Home

Because kitchens involve multiple trades, proper planning and coordination play a major role in cost control.


How long does a kitchen renovation usually take?

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Most kitchen renovations take 6–10 weeks, depending on scope and material lead times.

Timelines can vary based on:

  • Cabinet and countertop availability

  • Structural or layout changes

  • Coordination of multiple trades

We provide realistic timelines upfront and manage scheduling to minimize disruption. Note that the 6-10 weeks is once any necessary permits have been approved and work has started.


In most kitchen renovations, cabinetry is the single most expensive component, often accounting for 30–40% of the total renovation cost.

Custom or semi-custom cabinets cost more due to:

  • Material quality

  • Custom sizing and storage solutions

  • Finish options

  • Installation complexity

Other major cost contributors can include:

  • Countertops, especially natural stone or quartz

  • Appliances, particularly professional-grade models

  • Electrical and plumbing upgrades, which are common in older homes

  • Layout changes, such as removing walls or relocating services

Because kitchens involve multiple trades and precise coordination, thoughtful planning and realistic budgeting are key to controlling costs while achieving a durable, functional result.

What’s the most expensive part of a kitchen renovation?

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Permits are commonly required if the renovation includes:

  • Electrical work

  • Plumbing changes

  • Structural modifications

  • Wall removal or layout changes

Permit requirements vary by municipality, and timelines can impact the overall project schedule. We help clients understand what’s required and assist with the permit process when needed.

Do kitchen renovations require permits?

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Permit timelines vary depending on which municipality your home is in and the scope of the renovation.

City of North Vancouver & District of North Vancouver

For most bathroom renovations that involve plumbing, electrical work, or layout changes, permit approval typically takes around 3–4 months.
Projects that are straightforward and well-documented may move more quickly, while older homes or more complex renovations can take longer.

West Vancouver

West Vancouver permit timelines are typically slightly shorter, with most renovation permits taking about 2–3 months for approval, depending on project scope and submission quality.

Other Lower Mainland municipalities

Across the Lower Mainland (including Vancouver and Burnaby), renovation permit timelines often range from 2–4 months, with larger or more complex projects requiring additional review time.

How long does it take to get renovation permits in North Vancouver and West Vancouver?

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