Guide
Renovating where neighbours share the walls.
A condo or apartment renovation is a remodel with extra rules: shared walls, shared systems, an association or building owner to satisfy, and neighbours who live through the noise. Multi-unit work adds tenants and phasing. Planned well, all of it is routine.
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What it costs
A 900 sq ft unit, by finish level.
For a full interior renovation of a 900 square foot condo in Rancho Palos Verdes, our planning model gives $227k–$599k at a standard finish, $267k–$705k at premium and $361k–$951k at luxury. A lighter refresh (paint, floors and fixtures without moving walls or plumbing) costs far less; moving kitchens or bathrooms costs more.
- Standard finish$227k–$599k
- Premium finish$267k–$705k
- Luxury finish$361k–$951k
- A cosmetic refreshWell below these ranges
Rules and neighbours
Read the association rules before the design.
Most condo associations limit what can change: structural walls, plumbing stacks, windows and balconies are usually common property. Many also set work hours, require floor underlayment to limit noise, and want the contractor's insurance on file before work starts. Getting the association's approval in writing first saves redesign later.
For apartments and small multi-unit buildings, renovate unit by unit or in phases so most of the building stays occupied, and plan shared systems such as water, electrical service and fire safety as one project.
- Association approval and work-hour rules
- Sound underlayment under hard floors
- Shared plumbing, electrical and fire systems
- Phasing unit by unit in occupied buildings
Common questions
Condo and apartment questions
Do I need a permit for a condo remodel?
Yes, once electrical, plumbing or walls change. The association's approval is separate from the city's permit and usually comes first.
Can a multi-unit building stay occupied?
Usually, by working one unit or one floor at a time, with notice to residents and protected access.
How firm are these figures?
Figures are planning ranges (2024 Southern California base rates, adjusted for each city and finish level). They are not a bid; a site visit and drawings set the real number.
Request an estimate
Check your budget against your scope.
Tell us the renovation you want and the budget you have, and we will say whether they fit.
What happens next
- You tell us about the project Your name, your email and a line about the work is enough to start.
- We reply within two business days With a realistic outline of scope, timing and cost ranges.
- We walk the property with you Then you decide. No obligation and no pressure before you commit.
- 5.0 on Google reviews (opens in a new tab)
- Licensed & bonded · CSLB #1130785
- Office in Rolling Hills Estates
Rolling Hills Estates, CA 90274Google Maps ↗Apple Maps ↗