What is the average cost per square foot for renovations in Ottawa?

Renovation costs in Ottawa vary significantly by project type, but you can expect to pay anywhere from $40-200+ per square foot depending on the scope and finish level of your renovation.

The wide range reflects the dramatic difference between basic updates and high-end transformations. For basement finishing, which is one of the most cost-effective ways to add livable space, expect $40-80 per square foot for a quality renovation including flooring, drywall, electrical, and basic finishes. Main floor renovations typically run $80-150 per square foot, while premium kitchen and bathroom renovations can reach $150-250 per square foot when you factor in high-end fixtures, custom cabinetry, and stone countertops.

Ottawa-specific factors that influence these costs include our climate considerations (proper insulation and moisture control add to basement projects), local permit fees ranging from $500-5,000+ depending on scope, and the age of Ottawa's housing stock - many homes built in the 1950s-80s require electrical panel upgrades or plumbing updates that add to renovation costs. The Ontario Building Code requirements for things like AFCI breakers and proper egress windows in basement bedrooms also impact pricing compared to other markets.

Material and labor costs in the Ottawa market have stabilized somewhat after the pandemic spike, but skilled trades remain in high demand. Quality contractors who pull proper permits and carry WSIB insurance will be at the higher end of these ranges, but this protects your investment and ensures the work meets code. Seasonal timing can also affect costs - booking during slower winter months for spring/summer work sometimes offers better pricing.

For secondary dwelling units, which is a specialty of ours, costs typically run $80,000-200,000 total depending on whether you're converting existing basement space or building new. This includes all permits, separate entrance, kitchen, bathroom, and meeting Ottawa's R4 zoning requirements.

What's typically included in per-square-foot pricing: labor, basic materials, permits, and standard finishes. What's usually extra: high-end fixtures, structural changes, HVAC modifications, and addressing unexpected issues in older homes like asbestos or outdated wiring.

For an accurate assessment of your specific project, a detailed quote based on your actual space and requirements will give you much more reliable numbers than per-square-foot estimates. Want to discuss your renovation goals? We offer free consultations to help you understand what's realistic for your space and budget.