Journal · 1 min read
The Condo Renovation Mistakes People Make Most
Condos carry limits houses do not. Knowing them before you demolish saves a fortune.
2026-05-03
The most common condo renovation mistakes are not checking building rules before starting, moving a bathroom or kitchen far from existing pipes so drainage fails, breaking or drilling into structural walls, and budgeting with no 15-20 percent buffer for hidden work. Getting building approval and planning plumbing early avoids the big problems.
Building rules and what you cannot do
Many condos ban tiling bedroom floors, prohibit balcony extensions, or restrict noisy work hours. Get the rules in writing and notify the juristic office before moving materials in, or you risk being ordered to undo the work.
Plumbing, electrical, and a budget buffer
Moving a drain relies on pipe slope; move it too far and water will not flow. Hidden systems behind walls are where budgets blow out most.
- Get building rules in writing before designing
- Do not move a bathroom or kitchen far from existing pipes without a plumber
- Budget a 15-20 percent buffer for hidden and added work
- Sign a contract stating scope, milestones, and delay penalties
Who must approve a condo renovation?
Always notify and get approval from the building juristic office first. Work affecting structure or shared systems may need an engineer's certification.
Can I knock down a wall in a condo?
Some partition walls can go, but load-bearing and fire walls must not be touched. Always have an expert check first.