Schedule planning
How long a renovation actually takes in Canada
Construction is the short part. Decisions, drawings, permit review, and material lead times are what make projects run late.
Planning and budget
1 to 4 weeksDefine scope, set a realistic budget with contingency, and collect inspiration and product choices.
Drawings and design
1 to 6 weeksNeeded when layout, structure, or permits are involved. Simple cosmetic work can skip this.
Quotes and contractor selection
2 to 4 weeksSend the same written scope to at least three contractors, then compare inclusions, not just totals.
Permits and approvals
1 to 8 weeksReview times vary by municipality and project complexity. Start early; this is the most common delay.
Material ordering
2 to 12 weeksCabinets, windows, and tile can have long lead times. Order before demolition where possible.
Construction
1 to 12 weeksDepends on the project. Inspections happen at set stages and can pause work if not scheduled.
Deficiencies and closeout
1 to 3 weeksWalk through the work, list deficiencies in writing, and hold final payment until they are resolved.
On-site duration by project
| Project | Typical time on site |
|---|---|
| Kitchen | 4 to 8 weeks on site once materials are ordered |
| Bathroom | 2 to 4 weeks on site |
| Painting | 1 day for a single room, 3 to 7 days for a main floor |
| Basement | 6 to 12 weeks on site, plus permit review time |
| Deck | 1 to 3 weeks on site, plus permit review |
| Flooring | 2 days to 2 weeks depending on area |
| Furnace | 1 to 2 days for a straight replacement |
| Central AC | 1 day, or 2 to 3 days with electrical work |
| Water heater | Half a day for a tank swap, 1 to 2 days for a tankless conversion |
| Windows and doors | 1 to 5 days for a typical package |
| Roof | 1 to 4 days for a typical asphalt reroof |
| Whole home | 4 to 10 weeks depending on how much is done at once |