Renovation Timeline: Your Step‑by‑Step Roadmap
Starting a renovation can feel like stepping into a maze, but a solid timeline turns chaos into a clear path. Below you’ll find a practical schedule that covers every major stage, plus tips to keep things moving and money in check.
1. Scope, Budget, and Design (Weeks 1‑4)
First, write down exactly what you want to change – extra room, new kitchen, a sunroom, etc. This scope becomes the basis for your budget. Keep a simple spreadsheet: line items for labour, materials, permits, and a 10‑15% contingency for surprises.
Next, bring in an architect or designer. Even a quick 3‑D sketch saves time later because you’ll know dimensions, structural limits, and how the new space fits the existing house. Agree on a design sign‑off before you move to permits.
2. Permissions and Procurement (Weeks 5‑8)
Apply for planning permission or check if your project falls under Permitted Development. In the UK, many home extensions can skip full permission, but you still need to notify the council. Allow 2–3 weeks for approval – factor this into your calendar.
While waiting, order long‑lead items like windows, doors, and structural steel. These can take 4‑6 weeks to arrive, and any delay here pushes the whole schedule. Confirm delivery dates and store them safely on site.
3. Demolition and Site Prep (Weeks 9‑10)
Clear the area, protect existing rooms, and set up dust barriers. A tidy site speeds up the trades and reduces accidents. If you’re removing walls, have a structural engineer sign‑off before you cut anything.
4. Core Construction (Weeks 11‑18)
This is the meat of the timeline. Follow a logical order: foundations, walls, roof, then services (plumbing, electrics). Each trade should know when they’re due – overlapping work saves weeks.
Typical milestones:
- Foundations and slab – 1‑2 weeks
- Wall build‑up – 2‑3 weeks
- Roof and weatherproofing – 1‑2 weeks
- First fix services – 2 weeks
Schedule inspections after each major step; missing an inspection can cause costly rework later.
5. Finishing Touches (Weeks 19‑22)
Now the second‑fix stage begins: plaster, tiles, painting, joinery, and final fixtures. Coordinate with the kitchen installer, bathroom fitter, and any bespoke carpentry to avoid waiting for one another.
Do a snag walk with your builder before the final handover. List any small issues – a missing trim, a paint drip – and get them fixed before you pay the final invoice.
6. Handover and Move‑In (Week 23)
When the snag list is cleared, you’ll receive a completion certificate and any warranties. Take a final walk‑through, test all appliances, and enjoy your new space.
Having a realistic renovation timeline helps you stay in control, saves stress, and protects your budget. Stick to the schedule, keep communication open with each trade, and you’ll finish on time without nasty surprises.
