The time taken to complete your home . . .

It usually takes about six months to build a relatively uncomplicated home. It can often take a year or more to complete a complex custom home.

The time taken to complete your home to occupancy will be dependent on the size, location and complexity of the project. Availability of inspections and weather can also affect the projected occupancy timetable.

People who are not familiar with the construction process often underestimate the time it takes to complete the project. It is a common belief that the project can be completed sooner by simply adding more labor. This is not so as construction is largely a sequential process and jobs need to be scheduled accordingly.

. . . is dependent on the size, complexity and location.

 

PLANNING GUIDELINES

Building Activity  From (wks)   Up to (wks)
  • Design and Material Specification 
 4 8
  • Purchasing, Assembly & Shipping
10 22
  • Permitting / Approvals  
 2* 20*
  • On Site Construction / Inspections
 15 38
  • Projected time to occupancy 
 29 78
     

     
Notes:

  • Actual times depend on specific size, location and complexity of the project.
  • These projections assume permitting is applied for immediately after blueprints are ready while material production is still in process.
  • *Permitting often overlaps the purchasing / manufacturing process.

 

Lock-up

When the building is at the lock-up stage it means that the home is now weatherproof and secure. The roof is complete with windows and doors installed. Siding may also be installed depending on geographic area. An inspection will take place at lock-up. This key milestone inspection will determine the structural soundness of the home and its compliance with building codes.

Finishing

Many home owners want to play a major role in completing their home. This involves exterior and interior finishing work. You have the option to hire trades directly or even do some of the work on your own. This way you can save on project management costs and direct labor depending your expertise and time available.

Occupancy

Your home is ready for you to live in. Your construction contract is complete when final inspection has taken place and deficiencies identified by the inspector have been remedied. Arrange for a final “walk through” with your contractor on completion of this work. Final payment needs to be made and any holdbacks released within the agreed time period.