A home renovation is a big project. There are a lot of moving parts, and it can be difficult to know where to start, let along figuring out renovation timeframes. But don’t worry, we’re here to help. In the points below, we’ll walk you through the entire process, from initial concept designs to the completion of construction.
By the end, you’ll have a good sense of how long your particular renovation might take, and what you can do to keep the project on track.
Determining renovation timeframes
The first thing to understand is that there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. The timeline for your renovation will depend on the scope of the work being done, as well as the size and layout of your home. That said, most renovations generally follow a similar timeline. Here’s a look at what you can expect:
Conceptual Design: 1-2 months
This is the brainstorming phase, where you (with the help of an architect or designer) come up with a plan for your renovation. This is also when you’ll start making decisions about things like materials, finishes, and fixtures. If you already have a good idea of what you want before you start working with a designer, the conceptual design phase can be shorter. But if you need help refining your ideas, it may take longer.
Construction Documents: 2-4 months
Once you’ve settled on a plan, your architect or designer will begin preparing construction documents. This step is important because it ensures that everyone involved in the project – from the contractor to the tradespeople – is on the same page about what needs to be done. The more complex the project, the longer it will take to complete this step.
Permitting: 1-2 months
After the construction documents are completed, you’ll need to submit them to your local building department for approval. The permitting process can vary widely from one municipality to another, so it’s hard to say how long it will take with any certainty. In some cases, permitting can happen relatively quickly; in others, it may take several months.
Construction: 3-6+ months
Finally, we get to construction! This is obviously the longest phase of the renovation process, and again, the timeline will vary depending on the size and complexity of your project – a small bathroom remodel might only take a few weeks; whereas a whole-house gut renovation could easily take six months or more.
Ready to get the ball rolling on your home renovation?
Typically, a home renovation takes anywhere from six months to over a year from start to finish. Of course, there are always exceptions (some projects might move more quickly while others drag on longer than expected) but this should give you a general sense of what you can expect. Ready to get started?