FS Construction & Remodeling

Lancaster's Building Department requires a building permit for any kitchen or bath remodel that touches structure, walls, or fixtures, with separate plumbing, electrical, and gas permits from licensed trades. Lancaster has a Historic District around the Town Green, so exterior changes on covered properties need Historic District Commission review, though interior kitchen and bath work generally does not. With much of the town on septic, adding fixtures can trigger a Title 5 review through the Board of Health, and work near the Nashua River or wetlands can draw Conservation Commission review. Pre-1978 homes fall under federal RRP lead-safe rules, adding roughly $1,500–$5,000 to qualifying projects.

Lancaster sits in the central Massachusetts cost band, below Boston-metro pricing. Mid-range bath remodels run $16,000–$28,000, with primary baths $27,000–$48,000. Mid-range kitchens land at $30,000–$56,000, and high-end semi-custom or custom work runs $58,000–$112,000. The antique stock is the cost driver — original framing, knob-and-tube, and millwork preservation routinely add line items that newer towns don't see, so a contingency is wise on any historic-home project.

Massachusetts requires a written contract and a Home Improvement Contractor registration for most residential kitchen & bath remodel work; ask for the registration number and check it before paying a deposit.

More on permits, costs, rebates and common questions, plus every other kitchen & bath remodel contractor serving the town, on the Kitchen & Bath in Lancaster page.