Your 2025 guide to pricing, planning, and avoiding unexpected expenses
Renovating an office in Ontario is one of the most effective ways to improve productivity, modernize your workspace, and create a better experience for both staff and clients. But one of the first questions every business asks is:
“How much does an office renovation cost?”
The short answer: $80–$250 per sq. ft. depending on scope, building age, design, and mechanical/electrical needs.
The long answer — and what really determines your cost — is broken down below.
1. Average Office Renovation Costs in Ontario (Per Square Foot)
Here’s a realistic cost range based on 2025 commercial-construction pricing:
Basic refresh: $80–$120 per sq. ft.
Includes:
- Paint
- Flooring
- Lighting updates
- Minor layout adjustments
- Basic millwork
Mid-level renovation: $120–$180 per sq. ft.
Includes:
- New office layout
- Updated lighting + electrical
- Glass partitions
- New flooring
- Acoustic improvements
- Reception upgrades
Full office rebuild: $180–$250+ per sq. ft.
Includes:
- Complete layout redesign
- New walls + doors
- Plumbing upgrades
- Advanced electrical + IT
- HVAC adjustments
- Custom millwork
- Break room / kitchen installation
- Accessible washrooms
Most established businesses fall into the mid-level to full-rebuild range, especially in older buildings.
2. What Impacts the Cost of an Office Renovation?
Office renovations vary widely based on the building’s condition and what the business actually needs. These are the biggest cost drivers:
A) Layout Changes & Demolition
Removing existing walls, moving doors, and reconfiguring rooms add labour and disposal costs.
More layout changes = higher cost.
B) Electrical & Lighting Upgrades
Offices rely heavily on:
- Workstation power
- Server rooms
- Charging stations
- Integrated lighting
- Reception/feature lighting
Older buildings often require panel upgrades or rewiring, which significantly affects budget.
C) Plumbing Needs
If you’re adding or relocating:
- Washrooms
- Staff kitchen
- Break room sinks
- Water stations
Expect additional plumbing permits and labour.
D) HVAC Adjustments
New offices often need:
- Rebalanced airflow
- New ducting
- Additional vents
- Improved temperature zones
If the HVAC system is old or undersized, replacement may be necessary.
E) Custom Millwork
Reception desks, feature walls, built-in cabinetry, boardroom storage — millwork is one of the biggest cost swings.
F) Accessibility Compliance (AODA)
Ontario requires barrier-free access, which may include:
- Wider doorways
- Accessible hardware
- Proper washroom layout
- Ramp or entrance modifications
G) Material Quality
LVT vs carpet tile, glass partitions vs standard drywall, acoustic panels vs basic ceilings — finishes impact both cost and durability.
3. Hidden Costs Businesses Often Miss
These aren’t always factored into initial budgets but can significantly affect the final cost:
- Fire separation upgrades
- Sprinkler system adjustments
- IT cabling + network infrastructure
- Soundproofing for meeting rooms
- Permits & architectural drawings
- After-hours construction (if building requires it)
A proper site assessment helps avoid surprises.
4. Permit Requirements for Office Renovations in Ontario
Most office renovations require some level of permitting:
- Building Permit
- Electrical Permit
- Plumbing Permit
- HVAC/Mechanical Permit
- Fire & Life Safety Approvals
Any structural change or washroom adjustment requires additional review.
Skipping permits = delays, fines, and problems on resale.
5. How Long Does an Office Renovation Take?
General timelines:
- Basic refresh: 3–6 weeks
- Mid-level renovation: 6–10 weeks
- Full rebuild: 10–16+ weeks
Delays usually come from:
- Permits
- Lead times for custom millwork
- Electrical/HVAC complexity
- Change orders
The more detailed the planning phase, the faster construction goes.
6. Tips to Keep Office Renovation Costs Under Control
Here’s how Ontario businesses can avoid overspending:
- Finalize layout + finishes before construction starts
- Avoid unnecessary structural changes
- Choose durable, commercial-grade materials
- Plan mechanical/electrical early
- Work with a contractor who understands commercial codes
- Schedule construction during off-hours if needed
Smart planning saves thousands.
Final Thoughts
Office renovation costs in Ontario vary depending on layout, mechanical systems, finishes, and building condition — but a clear budget range is achievable with the right planning. Whether you’re modernizing a workspace, improving staff flow, or creating a new client-facing environment, choosing an experienced commercial contractor ensures your renovation is on time, compliant, and built to last.
