Renovating a Duplex in Montréal: 5 Decisions to Make Before You Start
Before renovating a duplex, five decisions determine the cost, the schedule and the result: the scope of the work, the structure, how the units will be used, the permits and the budget. Making them in the right order avoids going back mid-project. At Groupe Cartier, everything starts with a free discovery call, followed by a visit to your home.
1. Define the scope of the work
Renovating one unit, both units, reconfiguring a full floor, combining units or adding a floor are not the same project. The scope drives almost everything else, and it is the first factor the price depends on. See our duplex renovation in Montréal page.
2. Check the structure before you draw
Opening a closed-off kitchen is one of the most common projects in a plex. Before designing an open space, we first check the load-bearing walls, then draw a plan that respects the structure and the character of the unit. This is one reason the visit to the building comes before the plans.
3. Decide how the units will be used
Do you want to keep two separate units or combine them into one larger home? The answer affects the plans, the plumbing and electrical work and the order of the construction.
4. Know which permits you need
Work that affects the structure, the facades, the plumbing or the electrical system requires a permit from the borough. We tell you what applies to your project during the first visit, and checking the regulations is part of planning the work.
5. Set a realistic budget
The price of a duplex renovation depends on the scope of the work, the materials chosen and your aesthetic preferences. A precise estimate is provided after the visit to the building. We also recommend setting aside a reserve of about 15% for unexpected issues, especially in older buildings.
Why a single point of contact changes everything
A duplex means coordinating several trades, plans and permits. At Groupe Cartier, our interior designers and our general contractor team work together, with a single point of contact from the first sketch to delivery. You do not have to coordinate a designer and a contractor separately. See our turnkey service and our general contractor page. To understand how a project unfolds, also read 6 steps to keep major renovation costs under control.
Frequently asked questions
Can a closed-off kitchen be opened up in a plex?
Yes, it is one of the most common projects. We first check the load-bearing walls, then design an open space that respects the structure and the character of the unit.
Do I need a permit to renovate a duplex?
Work that affects the structure, the facades, the plumbing or the electrical system requires a permit from the borough. We tell you what applies to your project during the first visit.
How long does a major renovation take?
A major renovation usually takes 12 to 16 weeks of construction at Groupe Cartier, starting from the final plans.
Which areas do you serve?
We serve Montréal and its boroughs, Laval, the South Shore (Longueuil, Brossard, Boucherville, Saint-Lambert) and the North Shore (Blainville, Terrebonne, Mirabel).
Let's talk about your duplex
A free, no-obligation discovery call to understand your project and explain how Groupe Cartier can bring it to life.
Schedule my discovery call Or call us: 514-629-6029