How Long Does a Full House Renovation Take?

Let's collaborate

If you’re planning a transformation and asking, how long does a full house renovation take?, you’re not alone. Timelines are one of the biggest concerns homeowners face when considering a major renovation and rightly so. At Bray Constructions, we know how vital it is to set clear expectations upfront and communicate throughout the process.

From planning approvals to structural changes and weather contingencies, several factors influence how long your renovation will take. Let’s break down what’s involved and what might affect your schedule.

What Influences Renovation Timelines?

Project Scope and Complexity

The size and nature of the renovation play a major role. Cosmetic updates may take a few weeks, while a full house renovation – often involving structural changes, kitchen and bathroom updates, and sometimes even reconfiguration can take anywhere from 4 to 12 months, depending on the complexity.

Quality of Planning and Design

A detailed design and documentation phase ensures that construction runs smoothly. This includes:

  • Finalised floorplans and specifications
  • A clear, itemised scope of work
  • Engaging a professional team from the outset

We recommend working with our experienced drafting professionals and designers to set a realistic timeline from the start.

Staying Organised Behind the Scenes

A well-run renovation depends on thoughtful planning and coordination. While each project is different, experienced builders ensure that all elements – trades, materials, and inspections are sequenced efficiently. At Bray Constructions, we manage the construction process with care and precision to support steady progress from start to finish.

Planning Permissions and Building Regulations

For large-scale renovations or extensions, you’ll likely need permits or planning approvals. These can add 4 to 12 weeks (or more) depending on your local council’s requirements. If your home is in a heritage overlay or a special use zone, expect longer timeframes.

Common Causes of Delays

Even with a well-managed plan, certain factors can impact timelines:

  • Weather conditions (especially during roofing or external works)
  • Material lead times or shortages
  • Unforeseen site conditions, such as hidden structural damage
  • Client-initiated changes during construction

The best builders will anticipate potential delays and build some buffer time into your schedule.

How to Stay On Track

Here’s how to help ensure your renovation runs to time:

  • Make all key decisions before construction starts
  • Avoid making changes mid-project
  • Choose a builder with a reputation for transparency and quality (like Bray Constructions)
  • Ask to see a sample project timeline to understand what’s involved

Realistic Timeframes for Full House Renovations

To give you a rough guide:

  • Design and Planning: 2–4 months
  • Permit Approvals: 1–3 months
  • Construction: 6–12 months (depending on the scope)

That means a full renovation could span 9–18 months from initial concept to completion. Starting with a clear roadmap is key to avoiding costly surprises down the line.

Ready to Renovate Your Home?

Understanding how long a full house renovation takes is just the beginning. If you’re planning a large-scale renovation or extension in Bayside or surrounding areas, Bray Constructions brings decades of experience in delivering thoughtful, high-quality results – on time and on budget.

Contact us to discuss your renovation goals and get expert insight tailored to your home.