Walking through his family home in Baie-D’Urfé, Quebec, Gilbert Hajj maneuvers like he’s in a labyrinth, indicating walls being kept, those being removed, and areas being repurposed. What started as a simple home expansion and renovation project in December 2024 has turned into a lengthy and dusty journey for the Hajj family, all while they remain on the premises.
Despite being well-versed in the industry, handling roof repairs and maintenance, Hajj found himself facing challenges with this project. Despite thorough research, obtaining quotes, and assembling a trusted team, the timeline extended beyond his initial expectations. Hajj acknowledged the stress of living in a dusty and chaotic environment during the renovation process.
In Quebec, the trend of escalating renovation costs and delays has become commonplace. Statistics Canada reveals that residential renovation expenses in the province have surged by over 40% post-pandemic. Contractors are fully booked for months in advance, leaving homeowners to grapple with adjusting their plans and budgets.
Architect Ron Rayside highlights the multifaceted reasons behind the surge in renovation costs, such as labor shortages, soaring material prices, trade tariffs, and supply chain disruptions exacerbated by the pandemic. Despite these challenges, Quebecers continue to pursue renovation projects.
A recent report by Soumission Rénovation indicates that demand for renovation services remained high throughout 2025 in Quebec. Over 155,000 home renovation projects were completed in the province, with more than 40% of homeowners underestimating their project costs.
To assist homeowners in navigating the renovation process with confidence, Marie-France Côté Nolet established “Les filles de la construction,” an educational platform in Montreal. She emphasizes the importance of homeowners understanding the construction process to manage renovations effectively and cost-efficiently.
Côté Nolet suggests thorough planning and research before commencing any renovation project to avoid miscalculations. She advises homeowners to research costs early, create a realistic timeline, allocate an additional 20% for unforeseen expenses, and prepare for unexpected challenges.
Despite the challenges and sleepless nights, Hajj remains focused on the end goal of achieving a modernized family home with more space. He draws comfort from knowing that many homeowners face similar struggles amidst the dust, noise, and delays of renovation projects.