Expert Kitchen Renovations in Vancouver

Yes, if the work involves moving or adding plumbing, adding a new electrical circuit, relocating the electrical panel, adding a gas appliance where none existed, or removing a structural wall. A cosmetic refresh of cabinets, countertops, and finishes without touching those systems usually doesn't need one. Fees run roughly 1 to 1.5% of construction value, so a $60,000 kitchen renovation typically costs $600 to $900 in permit fees, and standard applications take 4 to 8 weeks. See the City of Vancouver's building permit page for current fees.

In most cases, yes. We assess whether the wall between the kitchen and living space is load-bearing, which is common in Vancouver's older character homes, and if so, plan for a support beam or engineered header. This requires a permit and often a structural engineer's stamped drawing, which we coordinate as part of the project.

Both a building permit and strata council approval are required before work starts on a strata property. Council approval typically takes 2 to 6 weeks since most stratas meet monthly. We prepare the full package, drawings, contractor license, insurance, alongside the municipal permit so both processes move together.

Pre-1980 Vancouver homes commonly have undersized electrical panels and outdated plumbing behind kitchen walls. A modern kitchen with more appliances usually needs an upgraded circuit or panel capacity, which we identify and budget for before demolition, not after.

A cosmetic update (cabinets, counters, backsplash) runs 2 to 3 weeks. A full renovation with layout changes typically takes 6 to 10 weeks including permit processing. Condo projects add strata approval time before work can start.

Every project includes a 2-year workmanship warranty on our labour and installation, plus manufacturer warranties on cabinets, countertops, and appliances.

Larson leads every project personally and handles the full City of Vancouver permit process, including structural engineering coordination for open-concept conversions and strata approval for condo units. Transparent pricing from the first quote.