Condo kitchens can be simple on paper and tricky in real life. Elevators. Neighbours. Work-hour limits. The secret is to plan the building logistics with the design, not after demolition.
This guide shows what your strata will expect, how permits line up, real budgets, and a clean timeline you can trust.
What your strata will ask for
Expect a short list of non negotiables.
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A clear scope of work with drawings
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Work hours and a schedule that respects quiet times
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Elevator bookings and a plan for deliveries
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Common area protection for floors and walls
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Contractor documents: insurance certificate and WorkSafeBC clearance
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Contact info for your site lead so questions get answered fast
Tip: get the strata package before design locks. We will build the drawings around the rules, not against them.
Permits and approvals
Most condo kitchens need electrical and plumbing permits when services move. If you change structure or open walls beyond finishes, a building permit may also be required.
Ventilation matters. Some buildings limit duct routes and hood types. If you cook a lot, we will plan a proper range hood solution with the property manager and mechanical drawings in mind.
Real budgets for 2025
These ranges reflect Metro Vancouver labour, condo logistics and typical material choices. They include design and site protection.
|
Scope |
Planning range |
What that covers |
|---|---|---|
|
Refresh |
$30k–$45k |
Counters, tile splash, lighting, hardware, minor cabinet work, no layout moves |
|
Mid range remodel |
$55k–$85k |
New semi custom cabinetry, quartz or porcelain counters, flooring, lighting, minor layout tweaks |
|
Full re layout |
$85k–$120k+ |
New layout, island where allowed, upgraded electrical and plumbing, ducted or best available hood plan, premium finishes |
Why the range. Elevators. Work windows. Deliveries. A tidy plan keeps handling time controlled and labour efficient.
Timeline that actually works
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Strata approval: 2 to 4 weeks
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Design and permits: 3 to 6 weeks
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Construction: 4 to 7 weeks for most condo kitchens
Short timelines depend on selections being locked and long lead items ordered early.
Common pitfalls and how to avoid them
Appliances that do not fit the elevator
Measure the cab. Check door swings. Confirm the route from loading bay to suite.
Recirculating hoods that do not keep up
If ducting is limited, we will spec the best unit for filter life and real airflow. If ducting is possible, we will coordinate make up air and exterior termination with building rules.
Late selections
Cabinet drawings and stone dates slip when door styles and slab choices keep changing. Decide once and let the team run.
Noise complaints
Plan loud work early in the day and communicate with neighbours. A simple notice earns a lot of goodwill.
Protection and logistics
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Floor and wall protection in common areas and the suite
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Staging and debris plan to keep hallways clear
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Bin scheduling that aligns with strata rules
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Weekly update email so the manager and neighbours are never surprised
Your pre construction checklist
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Final appliance list and cut sheets
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Cabinet line chosen and door style locked
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Plumbing layout decided or kept on one wall
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Hood plan agreed with property manager
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Elevator measurements and booking windows confirmed
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Insurance and WorkSafeBC documents ready to share
How CAS keeps condo projects smooth
We design to the building first. That means permits, strata expectations, ventilation options, and elevator limits are sorted before demo. You get a line by line budget, a realistic schedule, and a weekly rhythm that keeps decisions on time.
Upgrading a condo kitchen
Book a quick consult. We will map your strata rules, confirm permits, and give you a schedule that respects your building and your neighbours.
