Gilbert Hajj navigates his family home in Baie-D’Urfé, Que., like a maze, indicating walls to keep, those to remove, and areas for new purposes. The straightforward home extension and renovation project that started in December 2024 has turned into a lengthy and dusty journey for the Hajj family, who continue to reside on-site.
Living amidst the dust and chaos has been stressful for Hajj, who, despite being well-versed in the industry, faced challenges with the project timeline exceeding his initial expectations. Despite careful planning, reliable contractors, and a realistic budget, the project has stretched beyond its anticipated duration, causing Hajj frustration as he nears his budget limit without completion in sight.
Quebec residents, like Hajj, are experiencing the common dilemma of escalating renovation costs and delays. Statistics Canada reports a more than 40% increase in the average cost of residential renovations in the province since the onset of the pandemic. Contractors are heavily booked in advance, leaving homeowners scrambling to adjust their plans and financial estimates.
Renovation costs have surged over the past decade, with construction expenses tripling, according to architect Ron Rayside. Factors contributing to this surge include labor shortages, soaring material prices, trade tariffs, and disruptions in the supply chain exacerbated by the pandemic. Despite these challenges, Quebecers remain committed to renovating their homes.
A recent report from Soumission Rénovation reveals that demand for renovation projects remained high in 2025, with over 155,000 projects completed in the province. However, more than 40% of homeowners underestimated their renovation costs, highlighting the need for better cost management strategies.
To address the financial and emotional toll of renovations, educational platforms like Les filles de la construction, led by Marie-France Côté Nolet, aim to empower homeowners, especially women, to navigate construction projects confidently. Nolet emphasizes the importance of thorough planning and understanding the renovation process to avoid costly mistakes and miscalculations.
Despite the challenges, Hajj remains optimistic about the outcome of his renovation project, focusing on the end goal of a modernized family home with increased space. While facing sleepless nights and unexpected delays, he finds solace in the shared experiences of other homeowners navigating similar renovation challenges.
