How Long Does a Renovation Take? A Complete Timeline Guide

Renovation Timelines in the Lower Mainland

One of the most common questions Budget Contracting receives from homeowners is: how long will my renovation take? The answer depends on the type and scope of work, the permit requirements, material lead times, and the availability of tradespeople. This guide provides realistic timelines for the most common types of renovation projects in the Lower Mainland and Fraser Valley.

Kitchen Renovation Timeline

A full kitchen renovation in the Lower Mainland typically follows this timeline:

• Design and planning: 2 to 4 weeks
• Material ordering (cabinets, countertops, appliances): 4 to 12 weeks (custom cabinets take longer)
• Permit application and approval (if required): 2 to 6 weeks
• Construction: 4 to 8 weeks
• Total: 3 to 6 months

The biggest variable in a kitchen renovation timeline is the lead time for custom cabinetry. If you choose stock or semi-custom cabinets, the timeline is shorter. If you choose fully custom cabinetry built by a local craftsperson, the lead time can be 8 to 16 weeks.

Bathroom Renovation Timeline

A full bathroom renovation in the Lower Mainland typically follows this timeline:

• Design and planning: 1 to 2 weeks
• Material ordering (tile, fixtures, vanity): 2 to 6 weeks
• Permit application and approval (if required): 2 to 4 weeks
• Construction: 2 to 4 weeks (standard bathroom) or 4 to 6 weeks (master ensuite)
• Total: 2 to 4 months

Basement Suite Development Timeline

A full basement suite development in the Lower Mainland typically follows this timeline:

• Design and planning: 2 to 4 weeks
• Permit application and approval: 4 to 12 weeks (varies significantly by municipality)
• Construction: 8 to 14 weeks
• Total: 4 to 7 months

Home Addition Timeline

A main floor home addition in the Lower Mainland typically follows this timeline:

• Design and engineering: 4 to 8 weeks
• Permit application and approval: 6 to 12 weeks
• Construction: 10 to 16 weeks
• Total: 6 to 9 months

A second storey addition takes longer, typically 8 to 12 months total.

Commercial Renovation Timeline

Commercial renovation timelines vary widely depending on the size and complexity of the project. A simple retail fit-out can be completed in 4 to 8 weeks. A full office renovation may take 3 to 6 months. A restaurant renovation can take 4 to 8 months due to the complexity of the plumbing, ventilation, and electrical work.

Factors That Affect Renovation Timelines

Several factors can extend a renovation timeline:

• Permit approval delays (especially in municipalities with high permit volumes)
• Material lead times (especially for custom or imported materials)
• Unexpected conditions discovered during demolition (asbestos, mould, structural issues)
• Scope changes during construction
• Subcontractor availability

Budget Contracting builds contingency time into all project schedules and communicates proactively when timelines are affected.

Contact Budget Contracting for a Realistic Timeline

Contact Budget Contracting at 604-343-1985 or [email protected] for a free estimate and a realistic project timeline for your specific renovation.