Whether you’re a doctor opening your first clinic, a dentist upgrading your practice, or a medical facility expanding locations, understanding the true cost of renovating a medical office in Ontario is critical. These aren’t your average commercial spaces — they come with strict regulations, technical requirements, and patient-focused design needs.
At Diamond Builders Group, we’ve delivered dozens of healthcare-related construction projects across Ontario. Here’s what you need to know when budgeting your renovation.
🏥 Average Cost to Renovate a Medical Office in Ontario
The average cost to renovate a medical office in Ontario ranges from $150 to $300 per square foot, depending on:
- Scope of work (cosmetic refresh vs. full rebuild)
- Special equipment or custom features
- Number of treatment rooms
- Mechanical upgrades (HVAC, plumbing, electrical)
| Project Type | Approx. Cost (Per Sq. Ft.) |
|---|---|
| Cosmetic Updates (Paint, Flooring) | $80 – $120 |
| Standard Medical Renovation | $150 – $220 |
| High-End Medical / Dental Fit-Out | $225 – $300+ |
🛠 Example: A 2,000 sq. ft. dental clinic with full upgrades could cost $400,000–$600,000, including cabinetry, mechanical, and finishes.
🧱 What Drives the Cost of a Medical Office Renovation?
Renovating healthcare spaces involves more than drywall and flooring. Here are the biggest cost drivers:
1. Code Compliance & Permits
You’ll need to meet Ontario Building Code standards, as well as Public Health and Accessibility requirements. Expect:
- Barrier-free washrooms
- Accessible doorways and hallways
- Fire safety and occupancy load compliance
- Infection prevention considerations
Permit costs: $2,500–$10,000+, depending on municipality and project size.
2. Specialty HVAC & Mechanical
Medical spaces often require:
- Negative air pressure rooms
- Dedicated exhaust systems
- Extra ventilation or filtration (especially post-COVID)
Plumbing upgrades for exam sinks, sterilization rooms, or dental vacuum systems can also add to the total.
3. Custom Cabinetry & Built-Ins
From exam room millwork to staff break rooms, cabinetry is a major budget item — especially with antimicrobial materials or custom finishes.
4. Medical Equipment Integration
Your builder needs to coordinate with vendors for:
- X-ray or imaging units (requiring lead-lined walls)
- Dental chairs and suction lines
- Lab stations or procedure rooms
⏱ How Long Does It Take to Renovate a Medical Office?
On average, you’re looking at 8–20 weeks depending on:
- Permit delays
- Scope of work
- Material and equipment lead times
- Site conditions
A good contractor (like us 👋) will walk you through the process from Day 1 and build realistic timelines into your project plan.
✅ How to Keep Costs Under Control
Renovating a clinic can feel overwhelming — but smart planning helps:
- Start with design-build: Work with a contractor who handles everything in-house (permits, design, construction, health code review)
- Phase the work (if needed): For operating clinics, stagger work in sections
- Choose practical finishes: Durable, low-maintenance materials help reduce long-term costs
💬 Final Thoughts
A medical office isn’t just a space — it’s a place of care, trust, and precision. Your renovation should reflect that.
At Diamond Builders Group, we specialize in healthcare renovations across Ontario — from solo-practitioner clinics to multi-room dental and physio spaces. We manage code compliance, timelines, and construction so you can focus on delivering exceptional care.
👉 Thinking of renovating your clinic or opening a new practice?
Get in touch for a consultation — let’s build something better.
