Gilbert Hajj finds himself maneuvering through his residence in Baie-D’Urfé, Quebec, akin to navigating a labyrinth, indicating areas that will remain, those undergoing changes, and spaces earmarked for new functions. The Hajj family’s initially straightforward home expansion and renovation initiative, commenced in December 2024, has morphed into a protracted and dusty journey, all while the family resides on-site.
Living amidst debris and constant chaos poses a strain, as Hajj candidly acknowledged. Drawing from his expertise in the field, specializing in roof repairs and maintenance, Hajj felt competent in tasks that might challenge other homeowners: sourcing dependable contractors, establishing a realistic budget, and orchestrating a project from inception to completion. Despite meticulous planning, the project surpassed the initially projected timeline.
The escalating stress experienced by Hajj reflects a common scenario in Quebec, where exorbitant renovation costs and delays have become customary. Statistics Canada reveals a surge of over 40% in the average expense of residential renovations in the province since the pandemic, leading to contractors being fully booked for months ahead, while homeowners scramble to realign their expectations and finances.
Architect and urban designer Ron Rayside observed a steady increase in renovation costs over the past decade. Factors driving this surge include labor shortages, escalating material prices, trade tariffs, and disruptions in the supply chain triggered by the pandemic. Despite the soaring expenses, Quebec residents persist in renovating, as evidenced by the sustained high demand for renovation projects throughout 2025.
Marie-France Côté Nolet, the founder of Les filles de la construction, an educational platform in Montreal, is dedicated to empowering homeowners, particularly women, with an in-depth understanding of construction projects. She emphasizes the potential for significant cost savings if homeowners undertake various home projects themselves. Nolet underscores the importance of thorough planning and comprehension of the renovation process before embarking on significant projects.
In conclusion, Hajj finds solace in envisioning the final outcome: a modernized family abode with increased space. Despite the challenges of dust, noise, and delays, he draws comfort from the realization that he is not alone in his renovation journey.