How Long Does It Take To Renovate a Condo

Toronto condo renovations are an opportunity to create a space that perfectly fits your lifestyle. But how long does it actually take a condo renovation from start to finish? The answer depends on several factors:

• The size of the apartment
• The complexity of the renovation
• The time it takes to get the necessary permits and approvals.

In this guide, we’ll break down each phase of the process, from the initial planning and pre-construction phases to the final inspection, so you’ll have a clear idea of what to expect and how long each phase typically takes.

Estimated Total Timeline Chart for Condo Renovations

Pre-Construction Phase of Condo Renovation

Before the renovation begins, you’ll need to complete several important preparations.

Step 1: Close on Your Property

The first step in this process is to obtain ownership of the condo. Usually, this can take up to three months. Within this period, you can start planning what will be done during the condo renovation process. If you have some problems that need care, be sure to check out our CSG Renovation.

Step 2: Post Your Project

You can then post the project on any of the construction websites. This will consequently attract bids from different technicians. Ensure you give the details of what you intend to do. This should take between one and three days.

Step 3: Schedule Site Visits and Solicit Bids

After reviewing the bids, schedule site visits so contractors can better understand the scope of your condo renovation. This should take about one to two or three weeks.

Step 4: Level Bids and Choose a Contractor

Following the condo visit, you can look at the subsequent written bids. Compare and contrast these bids within a week or two.

Step 5: Sign the Contract and Finalize Construction Schedule

After vetting the bids, you can settle on one technician to do the condo’s renovation. The technician should specify the work that will be done and the period for the same exercise. Ensure this is done within a week.

Step 6: Obtain Permits and Approvals

This might range widely. It needs condo visitation by the city inspector. In Toronto, this can take at most two weeks.

Step 7: Source Materials

You can order the materials at this point. You can research widely to get some of the best materials within the shortest time possible. Involve the technician when sourcing for these products. At most, this will take you a whole month.

Step 8: Tell Your Neighbors You’re Renovating

Considering that you got approval from the condo board, you can let your neighbors know what you intend to do. This will take you about 15 minutes.

Condo Renovation Construction Phase

This equally has several phases that will have to be addressed.

Step 9: It’s Demo Time

At this point, the technician can move in to demolish the walls he deems fit. This will also eat up some time, usually three to five days.

Step 10: Reroute Plumbing and Electrical

Within two to four days, the electrical connections and plumbing works will have to be renovated and be fixed appropriately. Do not do this if your condo board prohibits it.

Step 11: City Inspections and Sign-Offs

If the condo renovations that are done on the plumbing and electrical works need approval from the authorities, the technician will wait for the approvals before closing the walls. At most, this step should take four days. To know more learn condo renovation requirements in Toronto.

Step 12: Installation – Floors

You most probably want your floor to be done effectively. It also has to be consistent in the whole house. This should take the technician between five and twelve days.

Step 13: Installation Completion

At this point, the kitchen can be installed. What follows should be the bathroom, followed by the hallway, and bedroom. This is the most detailed process. The quickest technician will do it within five days. However, it can take you up to twenty days to complete.

Step 14: Clean-Up

You can decide to hire a cleaning company to help you clean the condo. This is usually a day’s work.

Post-Construction Phase of Condo Renovation

These are equally important steps that you should not ignore.

Step 15: Final Walk-Through with Experts

It is now time to review whether the technician has delivered his side of the bargain. Inspect the condo with your technician within an hour or two. You can make the condo renovation approval and final payment at this juncture.

Additional Factors for Renovating a Condo

• Working Hours and Noise Restrictions: Most condo boards in Toronto enforce specific working hours (often between 9 AM and 5 PM) and have noise bylaws to limit disturbances to other residents. Factoring in these restrictions can help you avoid unexpected delays or fines.
• Seasonal Considerations: Keep in mind that certain seasons can affect your renovation timeline. Winter months, for example, may slow down material deliveries and permit processing, while spring and summer tend to be busier for contractors, potentially impacting availability.
• Permit Challenges: Obtaining permits and city inspections can sometimes take longer than expected. Working with an experienced contractor who understands the local permit process can help speed things up and reduce headaches.

Tips for a Smoother Scheduling of Your Condo Renovation

To stay on track, consider these strategies:

1. Order materials as early as possible to avoid supply delays.
2. Work with contractors who have good relationships with your condo board.
3. Use digital project management tools to monitor progress and coordinate with trades.

Finally, we invite you to a free consultation with our managers, where you will receive a free estimate and timeline for your project. For an appointment, please call (647) 428-0007.