Plan Ahead for a Realistic Start Date – Avoiding Costly Delays
One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make when planning a renovation in Toronto is underestimating the time required to start construction. Many assume that once the design is finalized, work can begin within a month or two. However, rushing into a major renovation without proper planning can lead to delays, cost overruns, and compromised quality.
In this fourth installment of our 7-Step Guide to Starting Your Toronto Home Renovation, we’ll explore why planning ahead is essential and how setting a realistic start date ensures a smooth renovation journey.
Why Timing Matters in a Home Renovation
- Finalizing Your Design is Just the Beginning
Having completed architectural drawings is an important milestone, but it’s not the green light for construction. Once the design is done, there’s still much to do before anyone picks up a hammer. You still need to:
- Secure permits from the City of Toronto (which can take weeks or months).
- Finalize key decisions for interior design.
- Make numerous material selections – from exterior cladding choices like real stone vs. veneer, to siding vs. stucco.
- Book tradespeople, who are often scheduled 2–4+ months in advance.
- Order materials, some of which—like custom windows or specialty tiles—can have lead times of 16+ weeks.
And even when all of that is done, you’re not quite ready to start. Once plans are final, it is not unrealistic to allow 3–6 months or more to mobilize the project, stage trades, and ensure materials are ready before construction begins. Skipping this preparation phase often leads to rushed decisions, delays, and added expenses.
- Builder Availability & Scheduling Conflicts
Toronto’s top builders and contractors are in high demand, particularly during peak construction seasons like spring and summer. If you wait until the last minute to hire a builder, you may be forced to work with someone less experienced—or put your project on hold until a slot opens up.
Example: Laura and James wanted to start their renovation in May but didn’t start looking to hire a builder until March. By then, the best contractors were booked until September, forcing them to either delay their project or settle for a builder with fewer credentials.
- Material Lead Times & Supply Chain Issues
Certain materials—such as custom cabinetry, specialty flooring, or high-end fixtures—can take months to arrive. Ordering too late can either stall the project or require last-minute substitutions, affecting the final result.
Expert Insight: Your builder and designer know the lead time for many materials. When they recommend making a decision by a specific date—which may seem very early to you—there’s a reason for it.
How to Set a Realistic Start Date
- Engage Your Builder Early
Instead of waiting until the last moment, involve your builder during the design phase. They can:
✔ Review your plans for feasibility.
✔ Provide accurate timelines for material procurement and labour scheduling.
✔ Help navigate city permits efficiently. - Factor in Permit Approval Time
Toronto’s permit process varies depending on the project scope. Small renovations might get approval in a few weeks, but major remodels can take months. Applying early prevents bottlenecks later. - Book Skilled Trades in Advance
Electricians, plumbers, and custom fabricators are often booked months ahead. By securing their time early, you avoid last-minute scrambles. - Account for Unexpected Delays
Even with meticulous planning, delays happen—weather, supply chain disruptions, or permit holdups. Adding a buffer of 2–4 weeks keeps your project on track when the unexpected occurs. - Use Pre-Construction Time Wisely
While you’re waiting for construction to begin, you can:
- Finalize every last design detail.
- Approve shop drawings from suppliers.
- Clear out the renovation area or arrange storage.
- Line up temporary housing if needed.
Key Takeaways: Smart Planning = Smooth Execution
Your design is just the starting point—finalizing paperwork, mobilizing trades, and ordering materials all take time.
- Involve your builder early to avoid scheduling conflicts and cost overruns.
- Plan for supply chain delays—order materials well in advance.
- Factor in permits and inspections to prevent unexpected hold-ups.
- Expect and allow for a realistic lead time—often several months—between “plans complete” and “shovels in the ground.”
Coming Up Next: Step 5 – Know the Repercussions of Scope Change.
Need Help Planning Your Renovation Timeline? Call Glenaden Homes today at 416-375-2065 or visit https://go.glenadenhomes.com/home-page352144 to get started. Let’s set a realistic start date that keeps your project on track!
