The Real Cost of Rewiring in Singapore: Resale vs BTO Flats

When it comes to renovating your home in Singapore, rewiring is one of those hidden yet essential costs many homeowners overlook. Whether you’ve just collected your BTO keys or purchased a resale flat, understanding the difference in rewiring needs and costs can help you plan your renovation budget more effectively.

Electrical works may not be the most exciting part of your home interior design journey, but they are the foundation of a safe and functional living space. Let’s break down what you should know.

Why Rewiring Matters

Electrical wiring determines how well your home supports modern appliances, lighting, and smart systems. Over time, wires can deteriorate, leading to power trips, poor connectivity, or even fire risks. That’s why a proper electrical plan especially during renovation is crucial. The rewiring cost can vary greatly depending on your flat type, age, and layout.

Rewiring for BTO Flats

For BTO (Build-To-Order) flats, the good news is: your wiring is brand new.In most cases, you don’t need a full rewiring unless you plan to add more power points or install additional lighting fixtures beyond the standard layout.

💡 Typical BTO Rewiring Works Include:

• Adding extra electrical points for appliances or smart devices

• Installing feature or ambient lighting

• Extending wiring to new built-in carpentry areas (e.g., wardrobes, TV consoles)

  
  

Estimated Cost:

For a 4-room BTO flat, you can expect to spend around $1,200 – $2,000, depending on how extensive your lighting and electrical plans are.

If you keep to the standard setup and make minimal changes, your cost may stay on the lower end of that range.

Rewiring for Resale Flats

Resale flats, especially those 10–30 years old, often require full electrical rewiring. The old wiring may no longer meet current safety standards or handle modern electrical loads.This means a more complex and time-consuming process like removing existing wires, running new ones through concealed conduits, and ensuring every socket and lighting point complies with HDB regulations.

💡Typical Resale Rewiring Works Include:

• Full replacement of existing electrical wiring

• New power points for modern kitchen and entertainment setups

• Upgrading circuit breakers (DB box)

• Installing new switches and sockets

• Optional upgrades for smart home systems

  
  

Estimated Cost:

For a 4-room resale flat, full rewiring can cost anywhere from $3,000 – $5,000, depending on:

• Size and layout of your home

• Whether you choose concealed or exposed wiring

• Number of new points added

• Type of switches, sockets, and fittings used

Older flats may also require rewiring approval and additional safety checks, adding to both time and cost.

Final Thoughts

Electrical rewiring is a crucial but often overlooked part of home renovation. For BTO flats, you’re likely looking at smaller add-on costs, while resale flats often need a complete overhaul for safety and functionality.

A well-planned electrical layout not only supports your daily comfort but also protects your home for years to come.

At Hamid & Sons interior design, our interior design and renovation services include transparent rewiring quotations and in-house electrical expertise, so you know exactly what you’re paying for with no hidden costs or surprises.