Construction Build Schedule Template
By Infinity Lending ServicesUpdated March 4, 20267 min read
Quick Answer
A typical residential new build takes 6-12 months from groundbreaking to completion. The schedule is divided into phases: site work, foundation, framing, mechanical rough-in, interior finishes, and final completion. Weather, permits, and material availability are the most common schedule risks.
Table of Contents
Phase 1: Pre-Construction (2-4 weeks before start)
- Permits obtained
- Site surveyed and staked
- Utility locates completed
- Materials ordered (long-lead items)
- Subcontractors confirmed and scheduled
- Temporary utilities installed (power, water)
- Portable facilities delivered
Phase 2: Site Work and Foundation (3-4 weeks)
| Task | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Clearing and grading | 3-5 days | Remove trees, level site |
| Excavation | 2-3 days | Dig for foundation |
| Footings | 2-3 days | Form, pour, cure |
| Foundation walls | 3-5 days | Form, pour, cure, waterproof |
| Backfill and compaction | 1-2 days | After waterproofing |
| Underground plumbing | 2-3 days | Below slab or crawl space |
| Slab pour (if applicable) | 1-2 days | Cure time needed |
| Foundation inspection | 1 day | Required before framing |
Phase 3: Framing (3-4 weeks)
| Task | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Floor system | 3-5 days | Joists, subfloor |
| Wall framing | 5-7 days | Exterior and interior walls |
| Roof trusses/rafters | 3-5 days | Set and brace |
| Sheathing | 3-5 days | Walls and roof deck |
| Windows and exterior doors | 2-3 days | Install in framed openings |
| House wrap | 1-2 days | Weather barrier |
| Framing inspection | 1 day | Required before covering |
Phase 4: Mechanical Rough-In (2-3 weeks)
| Task | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Plumbing rough-in | 4-5 days | Supply and drain lines |
| Electrical rough-in | 4-5 days | Wiring, panels, boxes |
| HVAC rough-in | 3-4 days | Ductwork, unit placement |
| Low-voltage wiring | 1-2 days | Data, security, audio |
| Mechanical inspections | 1-2 days | Each trade inspected |
Phase 5: Insulation and Drywall (2-3 weeks)
| Task | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Insulation | 2-3 days | Walls, ceilings, floors |
| Insulation inspection | 1 day | Required before drywall |
| Drywall hanging | 3-5 days | All interior surfaces |
| Drywall taping/finishing | 5-7 days | Multiple coats, sanding |
Phase 6: Interior Finishes (4-6 weeks)
| Task | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Interior paint | 5-7 days | Primer and two coats |
| Cabinets | 3-5 days | Kitchen and bathrooms |
| Countertops | 2-3 days | Template and install |
| Flooring | 5-7 days | Tile, hardwood, LVP, carpet |
| Trim and doors | 4-5 days | Baseboards, casings, doors |
| Fixtures | 3-4 days | Lighting, plumbing, hardware |
| Appliances | 1-2 days | Delivery and install |
Phase 7: Exterior Finishes (2-3 weeks, concurrent with interior)
| Task | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Roofing | 3-5 days | Shingles, flashing, gutters |
| Siding/exterior finish | 5-7 days | Siding, brick, stone |
| Exterior paint/stain | 3-5 days | If applicable |
| Driveway | 2-3 days | Concrete or asphalt |
| Landscaping | 3-5 days | Grading, sod, plants |
Phase 8: Final Completion (1-2 weeks)
| Task | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Punch list | 3-5 days | Address all deficiencies |
| Final cleaning | 1-2 days | Construction clean and detail |
| Final inspections | 1-2 days | Building, mechanical, fire |
| Certificate of occupancy | 1-3 days | Issued after final inspection |
| Professional photography | 1 day | For listing |
Related Reading
Key Takeaways
- ✓Plan for 6-12 months for a typical residential build
- ✓Schedule around inspection requirements and lead times
- ✓Weather and material availability are the biggest risks
- ✓Buffer time prevents schedule pressure from causing mistakes