One of the most common questions we hear as an apartment renovation supplier is, "How long will this actually take?" Unlike a house renovation, an apartment project is governed by a unique set of sequential and often non-negotiable steps, many of which are administrative. Having a realistic timeline is crucial for setting expectations and planning your life around the project. This detailed guide breaks down the typical timeline for a full apartment renovation, highlighting the critical path and where a professional supplier adds efficiency at every turn.
Phase 1: Pre-Construction Planning and Approvals (4-8 Weeks)
This is the most variable and often the longest phase, but rushing it guarantees problems later. A professional apartment renovation supplier manages this phase meticulously.
Weeks 1-2: Initial Consultation, Design, and Detailed Quoting
This is where your vision takes shape. We meet to discuss your needs, budget, and aesthetic preferences. Our designers then create initial floor plans and 3D renderings. Simultaneously, we conduct a thorough site assessment to identify any potential structural or mechanical issues. A detailed, fixed-price quote is provided based on the finalized design.
Weeks 3-8: The Building Approval Process
This is the apartment-specific wild card. Once you sign the contract, we immediately begin the building approval process, which can take anywhere from two to six weeks. This involves:
- Submitting Architectural Drawings: We provide your building management with detailed plans for their approval.
- Providing Insurance and Licenses: We submit our COI and business licenses.
- Securing the Renovation Deposit: We guide you through this process.
- Scheduling a Pre-Construction Meeting: We meet with the building manager to review protocols.
Pro Tip: Start discussing your renovation plans with your building manager before you even select a supplier. This gives you a head start on understanding their specific rules and timeline.
Phase 2: Pre-Installation Preparation (2-4 Weeks)
With approvals in hand, the focus shifts to preparation and fabrication.
Weeks 9-10: Final Measurements and Material Ordering
Even with initial measurements, we often take a second set of "confirmatory" measurements after the design is finalized to ensure absolute precision, especially for critical items like countertops. All materials—from tiles and flooring to your custom cabinetry—are officially ordered.
Weeks 11-12: Fabrication and Project Scheduling
This is when your custom elements are built in our workshop. While this happens, we create a detailed day-by-day project schedule, coordinating with our electricians, plumbers, and flooring installers. We also book the building's freight elevator for the required dates for delivery and debris removal.
Phase 3: The On-Site Work (3-6 Weeks)
Finally, the physical transformation begins. The duration depends heavily on the scope of work (e.g., a kitchen and bath remodel will take longer than a cosmetic update).
Week 1: Demolition and Rough-In
The space is cleared out. This is the noisiest and dustiest part of the project, which is why our dust containment systems are essential. Subcontractors complete the "rough-in" work—running new electrical wires, plumbing pipes, and HVAC ducts within the walls and floors.
Week 2-3: Building the Bones
New walls are framed if needed. Drywall is hung, taped, and mudded. This requires multiple days for the mud to dry between coats. The flooring underlayment is installed, and the first coat of primer is often applied to the walls.
Week 4-5: Installation and Finishes
This is the most rewarding phase. The schedule typically follows this sequence:
- Professional flooring installation (e.g., hardwood, tile).
- Installation of all custom cabinetry and built-in furniture by our GoldenHome team.
- Countertop measurement and template creation, followed by installation a few days later.
- Painting of walls and ceilings.
- Installation of light fixtures, plumbing faucets, outlet covers, and cabinet hardware.
Phase 4: Project Completion and Close-Out (1 Week)
Week 6: Final Touches, Cleaning, and Building Sign-Off
We conduct a detailed punch-list walkthrough with you to identify any minor touch-ups needed. These are completed promptly. We then perform a thorough deep-clean of the entire space. Finally, we schedule a final inspection with your building management to officially close the renovation permit and secure the return of your deposit.
How a Professional Supplier Prevents Timeline Creep
Delays are inevitable in renovation, but a good apartment renovation supplier mitigates them. Our advantages include:
- Control Over the Supply Chain: By manufacturing key components ourselves, we avoid delays from third-party cabinet shops or back-ordered products.
- Vetted Trade Partners: We work with a reliable team of electricians and plumbers who respect our schedule, unlike a general contractor who may be juggling multiple projects and subcontractors.
- Proactive Communication: We keep you and your building manager informed every step of the way, preventing surprises and ensuring everyone is aligned.
Understanding this timeline empowers you as a client. While a full renovation is a significant undertaking, partnering with an organized apartment renovation supplier like GoldenHome ensures the process is predictable, transparent, and results in a beautiful new home delivered on a realistic schedule.
