Budget protection
Renovation contingency calculator
Contingency covers conditions nobody can see during planning. This tool suggests a percentage based on project type, home age, and how much you are opening up.
Contingency inputs
CAD
17%
Recommended for these inputs: 17%.
Starting points by scenario
| Scenario | Contingency |
|---|---|
| Cosmetic updates | 10% |
| Kitchen, bathroom, deck | 15% |
| Basement or major layout changes | 20% |
| Older home, structural or unknown conditions | 20% to 30% |
How to use contingency well
- Keep it in a separate account from the project budget
- Spend it on discovered conditions, not on upgrades
- Re-check the remaining balance after demolition
- Do not include it in the number you give contractors
More detail in the contingency guide and renovation budget vs. emergency fund.