Common Office Renovation Works in Malaysia and Their Costs

Office renovations in Malaysia are essential for creating functional, aesthetically pleasing, and productive workspaces. Whether upgrading a small office or overhauling a large corporate space, understanding common renovation works and their associated costs is crucial for effective budgeting. This article explores the most frequent office renovation tasks in Malaysia as of 2025, provides detailed cost estimates, and highlights regulatory considerations. We also address five frequently asked questions to clarify key concerns for businesses planning renovations.

Table of Contents

Common Office Renovation Works

Office renovations typically involve a combination of structural, aesthetic, and functional upgrades. Below are the most common renovation works undertaken in Malaysia, along with their purposes and cost breakdowns.

1. Flooring Installation or Replacement

Purpose: Flooring enhances aesthetics, improves durability, and ensures safety. It’s one of the most visible aspects of an office, influencing the overall ambiance.
Common Materials:

Ceramic or Porcelain Tiles: Durable and easy to maintain, ideal for high-traffic areas like reception zones.
Vinyl Flooring: Budget-friendly and versatile, suitable for modern offices.
Carpet Tiles: Comfortable and sound-absorbing, often used in meeting rooms or workstations.
Laminate or Hardwood: Premium options for executive areas, offering a luxurious look.
Cost:
Ceramic tiles: RM5–RM15 per sq ft.
Vinyl: RM3–RM10 per sq ft.
Carpet tiles: RM2–RM8 per sq ft (self-adhesive reduces installation costs).
Laminate: RM5–RM20 per sq ft; hardwood: RM20–RM50 per sq ft.
For a 1,000 sq ft office, flooring costs range from RM2,000 (carpet tiles) to RM50,000 (hardwood), including labor.

2. Partition and Wall Works

Purpose: Partitions create private workspaces, meeting rooms, or open-plan layouts, while wall modifications improve aesthetics or functionality.
Common Tasks:

Drywall Partitions: Lightweight and cost-effective for dividing spaces.
Glass Partitions: Modern and transparent, ideal for collaborative environments.
Hacking and Rebuilding Walls: Required for layout changes or structural upgrades.
Painting or Feature Walls: Enhances aesthetics with corporate branding or textures.
Cost:
Hacking walls: RM10–RM30 per sq ft.
Drywall partitions: RM4–RM15 per sq ft.
Glass partitions: RM20–RM50 per sq ft.
Painting: RM2–RM10 per sq ft (specialty finishes like textured paint are pricier).
For a 1,000 sq ft office with two new partitions (100 sq ft total) and repainting, costs range from RM2,000 to RM10,000.

3. Electrical and Lighting Upgrades

Purpose: Upgrading electrical systems ensures safety, supports modern equipment, and enhances energy efficiency. Lighting improves ambiance and productivity.
Common Tasks:

Power Points and Wiring: Installing or relocating power outlets for workstations.
Lighting Installation: Adding LED lights, pendant lights, or task lighting.
Ceiling Fans or HVAC: Improving air circulation and comfort.
Cost:
Power points: RM100–RM280 per point (higher for higher amperage).
Lighting points: RM50–RM150 per point.
Ceiling fans: RM80–RM200 per unit.
LED lighting fixtures: RM50–RM500 per unit, depending on design.
For a 1,000 sq ft office with 10 power points, 20 lighting points, and 5 fans, expect RM5,000–RM20,000.

4. Carpentry and Furniture

Purpose: Custom carpentry and furniture create functional workspaces tailored to employee needs, such as workstations, cabinets, or reception counters.
Common Tasks:

Built-in Workstations: Modular desks for open-plan offices.
Storage Cabinets: For files, equipment, or pantry supplies.
Reception Counters: Custom designs to reflect brand identity.
Furniture Procurement: Ergonomic chairs, tables, or lounge seating.
Cost:
Built-in carpentry: RM20–RM200 per sq ft (melamine is cheaper than plywood or aluminum).
Ergonomic chairs: RM299–RM489 per unit.
Office tables: RM179–RM439 per unit.
Reception counter: RM2,000–RM10,000, depending on size and materials.
For a 1,000 sq ft office with 10 workstations and basic furniture, costs range from RM10,000 to RM50,000.

5. Ceiling Works

Purpose: False ceilings conceal wiring, improve acoustics, and enhance aesthetics. They’re common in modern offices for a polished look.
Common Tasks:

False Ceiling Installation: Using gypsum or plasterboard.
Acoustic Panels: For soundproofing in meeting rooms.
Decorative Elements: Adding cove lighting or recessed designs.
Cost:
False ceilings: RM5–RM15 per sq ft.
Acoustic panels: RM10–RM30 per sq ft.
Cove lighting: RM10–RM50 per linear foot.
For a 1,000 sq ft office with a false ceiling, costs range from RM5,000 to RM15,000.

6. Plumbing and Pantry Upgrades

Purpose: Upgrading plumbing ensures functional pantries or washrooms, enhancing employee comfort.
Common Tasks:

Sink Installation: For pantry or washroom areas.
Toilet Upgrades: Replacing fixtures or improving drainage.
Waterproofing: Essential for wet areas to prevent leaks.
Cost:
Sink installation: RM60–RM2,000 per fixture.
Toilet fixtures: RM200–RM1,000 per unit.
Waterproofing: RM5–RM15 per sq ft.
For a small pantry or washroom upgrade, costs range from RM2,000 to RM10,000.

Total Cost Estimates

The total cost of office renovation depends on the combination of works and office size. Here are approximate ranges for 2025:

Small Office (500–1,000 sq ft): RM20,000–RM80,000 for basic renovations (flooring, painting, basic carpentry).
Medium Office (1,000–3,000 sq ft): RM80,000–RM240,000 for standard renovations, including partitions, M&E, and furniture.
Large Office (3,000+ sq ft): RM240,000–RM500,000+ for comprehensive renovations with premium materials.
These estimates assume moderate material quality. High-end finishes or structural changes in older buildings can increase costs significantly.

Regulatory Considerations

Office renovations must comply with the Street, Drainage and Building Act 1974 and Uniform Building By-Laws 1984. Key requirements include:

Permits: Obtain renovation permits from local authorities (PBT). Costs range from RM1,000 to RM10,000, depending on project scope.
Strata Properties: Secure approval from the management corporation under the Strata Management Act 2013, often with a refundable deposit.
CIDB Registration: Contractors must be registered with the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) to undertake renovation work legally.
Certificate of Completion and Compliance (CCC): Required upon project completion, involving inspections and Form G submissions.
Non-compliance can lead to fines, project halts, or demolition of unapproved structures. Engage CIDB-registered contractors and professionals like architects or engineers to ensure compliance.

Budgeting Tips

Get Multiple Quotes: Compare at least three contractor quotes to ensure fair pricing. Verify credentials via SSM and CIDB portals.
Prioritize Essentials: Focus on critical works like Flooring and electrical upgrades before aesthetic enhancements.
Use Cost-Effective Materials: Opt for vinyl or laminate over hardwood to save costs without sacrificing quality.
Plan for Contingencies: Allocate 10–15% of the budget for unforeseen expenses, such as structural repairs.

FAQs

What is the most expensive part of office renovation?
Carpentry and M&E works are typically the costliest, with built-in furniture and electrical upgrades ranging from RM10,000 to RM50,000 for a 1,000 sq ft office, depending on materials and complexity.
How long does a typical office renovation take?
Small offices (500–1,000 sq ft) take 2–4 weeks, while medium to large projects (1,000–3,000 sq ft) may take 1–3 months, depending on scope and approvals.
Are permits required for all office renovations?
Most renovations, even minor ones like painting or flooring, require local authority permits. Strata properties also need management approval. Costs range from RM1,000 to RM10,000.
Can I save costs by doing some work myself?
DIY renovations are risky and may violate regulations. Engage CIDB-registered contractors to ensure compliance and avoid costly rework.
Are there tax incentives for office renovations?
Tax deductions up to RM300,000 were available for costs incurred from March 1, 2020, to December 31, 2022. Check with the Inland Revenue Board for current incentives.

Conclusion

Office renovations in Malaysia involve a range of tasks, from flooring and partitions to electrical and carpentry works, with costs varying based on materials, scope, and location. By understanding these common works and budgeting carefully, businesses can create inspiring workspaces that boost productivity. Compliance with regulations and hiring reputable contractors ensure a smooth, cost-effective renovation process.