Abstract:The current renewal of existing residential buildings in China has shifted from a single energysaving renovation to a comprehensive renewal. However, spontaneous renovation that occurs in large numbers has not been given adequate attention. This study explores how the occupants balance their living needs and realistic difficulty in the practice of spontaneous renovation from the occupant’s perspective. Based on the grounded theory, 31 occupants who have the experiences of spontaneous renovation were selected for indepth interviews and photographic observations. The motivations, characteristics and strategies of spontaneous renovation are generalized from these qualitative data. Spontaneous renovation, as an initiative of the residents to solve the living difficulties and improve the living experience with limited cost, can be regarded as an important supplement to the quality improvement of existing residential buildings. However, measures such as policy support, professional involvement, community coordination and database establishment are still needed to reduce safety risks.