Frequently Asked Questions

Renovation Questions, Answered

Straight answers to the questions Edmonton homeowners ask us most, about cost, timelines, permits, and what happens when a renovation uncovers a surprise.

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Before the Questions

A little context first

How to think about renovation cost

The most common question we get is some version of what will this cost, and the honest answer is that a real renovation is priced from a real scope, not guessed from a square footage rule of thumb. The same kitchen can vary enormously depending on cabinetry, whether plumbing and electrical move, the condition of what is behind the walls, and the level of finish. That is why we develop a fixed written scope before quoting: so the number you approve is tied to a specific, defined project rather than a hopeful estimate that balloons later.

It is also why the cheapest quote is so often the most expensive renovation. A low number frequently means an incomplete scope, cut corners on the hidden work, or a plan to make it up on change orders once you are committed. We would rather have the harder, honest conversation up front, because a surprise later costs far more than a straight answer now.

How to think about timelines and disruption

Timelines depend on scope, but the biggest controllable factor is decisions and materials. The single most common cause of a stalled renovation is a selection made late or a material ordered late. We front load those decisions with you during design so that once demolition starts, we keep moving. A realistic schedule set at the start, and kept honestly through the build, beats an optimistic one that slips week after week.

Disruption is real, and we would rather be upfront about it than pretend otherwise. What we control is how well it is managed: clear communication about what is happening each week, dust control and site protection for the parts of the home you are still using, and a crew that respects that someone lives there. Below are the specific questions homeowners ask us most.

Everything You Asked

Renovation FAQ

How much does a home renovation cost in Edmonton?+
It depends entirely on scope, size, and finish level, so any honest answer starts with a conversation. A single bathroom is a very different number than a main floor gut. What we can promise is that after the design stage you get a fixed written scope and price, so you are deciding with real numbers rather than a vague range that changes once work begins.
Do you handle design, or do I need my own designer?+
We do both. Bespoke is a design build company, which means we can take you from concept and drawings through to the finished build under one roof. If you already have a designer or architect you love, we are glad to build from their plans.
Can I stay in my home during the renovation?+
In most cases yes, depending on the scope. We phase the work, seal off active areas, and protect the rest of the home. For a full gut, or a project that leaves you without a working kitchen or bathroom, some homeowners choose to move out for part of it. We will be straight with you about which situation you are in so you can plan.
How long does a home renovation take?+
A single bathroom might run a few weeks, a kitchen longer, and a whole home renovation can run several months. The honest timeline depends on scope, the age of the home, and material lead times. We give you a realistic schedule with the fixed scope and your site lead keeps you updated as it moves.
Do I need a permit to finish my basement in Edmonton?+
Yes. Finishing a basement in Edmonton requires a development and building permit, and adding electrical, plumbing, or a secondary suite brings additional permits. We handle the permit process and coordinate inspections as part of the project so it is done legally.
How much does a kitchen renovation cost in Edmonton?+
It ranges widely with size, cabinetry, and finish level. A refresh with new cabinets and counters on the existing layout sits well below a full gut that moves plumbing and walls. After the design stage we give you a fixed written price against a defined scope, so you are choosing with real numbers rather than a guess.
Can you just replace the cabinets and counters?+
Yes. Not every kitchen needs a full gut. If the layout genuinely works, a cabinet and counter refresh is one of the strongest value renovations there is, and we are happy to scope it exactly that way rather than talk you into more than you need.
How much does a bathroom renovation cost in Edmonton?+
A powder room is a modest project, while a full ensuite with a custom tiled shower, heated floor, freestanding tub, and moved plumbing sits much higher. After design we give you a fixed written price against a defined scope so you can decide with real numbers and weigh the upgrades that matter to you.
How do you waterproof a shower properly?+
We build the shower with a correctly sloped substrate and a waterproofing membrane system behind and under the tile, with sealed penetrations, rather than relying on water resistant board alone. It is the difference between a shower that lasts and one that slowly rots the wall behind it.
Do you install heated floors?+
Yes. In floor electric heat under tile is one of the most popular upgrades we do in Edmonton, and for good reason through our winters. It is far easier and cheaper to add during a renovation than to retrofit later, so a bathroom reno is the time to decide.
How much does basement development cost in Edmonton?+
It depends on size, whether you are adding a bathroom or a full suite, how much mechanical work is involved, and the finish level. A straightforward family room finish is far less than a legal secondary suite with a kitchen and bathroom. After design you get a fixed written price against a defined scope.
Can you build a legal secondary suite?+
Yes. We design and build legal secondary suites to the City of Edmonton requirements, including egress windows, fire and sound separation, and a separate entrance where the lot allows. A legal suite is a very different project from a simple basement finish, and we scope it accordingly.
Can you match existing trim in an older home?+
In most cases yes. Older Edmonton homes often have trim profiles you simply cannot buy anymore. We can reproduce or closely match those profiles so additions and repairs blend seamlessly with the original character of the home.
Can I hire you for design only?+
Our design services are built to flow into construction, which is where the model adds the most value and where the cost discipline pays off. We are glad to discuss a design engagement and how it leads into building the project.
Will I really have one point of contact?+
Yes. A single site lead is accountable for your project and knows it in detail, so you are never bounced between trades trying to find out what is happening in your own home.
How do you handle changes once the project is underway?+
Through written change orders. If you decide to add scope, or if we uncover something that has to be addressed, we price it, explain it, and get your sign off before proceeding. You are never surprised by a number you did not agree to.
Do you do restoration work like water damage or mould removal?+
No. Bespoke Contracting is a renovation company, not a restoration company. What we do is find these issues when we open up an older home during a renovation. When that happens we bring in a qualified restoration specialist to test, remediate, or abate the problem, and once the space is clean and sound we handle the rebuild.
What areas do you serve?+
We work across Edmonton and the surrounding Capital Region, including Sherwood Park, St. Albert, Spruce Grove, Stony Plain, Fort Saskatchewan, Leduc, and Beaumont. If you are nearby and unsure, just ask.
How accurate is your initial quote?+
Because we quote from a fixed written scope rather than a rough guess, the price you approve is the price you pay, unless you ask for changes or we uncover something hidden that genuinely changes the work. In that case we stop, show you, and get your sign off before proceeding. There are no quiet change orders.
Do I need to move out during the renovation?+
For most single room renovations, no. For larger whole home projects it depends on the scope and how much of the home is affected at once. We talk through this honestly during planning and sequence the work to keep as much of your home usable as possible.
Do you handle permits?+
Yes. For work that requires them, such as basement development, structural changes, or secondary suites, we handle the permits and build to code as a matter of course. Skipping permits creates problems the day you try to sell or refinance, so we do not.
What if I only need part of a project done?+
That is fine. We take on everything from a single custom built in to a whole home renovation. Tell us what you have in mind and we will tell you honestly whether it makes sense on its own or whether there is a smarter way to phase it.
How do I get started?+
Reach out for a consultation. We will walk your space, listen to how you actually use it, and talk through your goals and budget. From there we develop a design and a fixed written scope so you know exactly what you are getting before any work begins.

Still have a question?

Ask us directly. We would rather answer it now than have you guess.

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