Preliminary Steps in the Construction Process

PETALUMA — In anticipation of an upcoming building or remodeling project, home and property owners tend to get excited about seeing the work begin. However, any construction project entails a number of preliminary hurdles that must be cleared before the actual work begins, including the architectural design and permitting process.

The process begins with a meeting between the contractor and the client, in which the project’s parameters are discussed, as well as what kinds of plans or permits will be required. This is typically followed by a meeting with one or more architects to talk about the plans and establish pricing. Once an architect is chosen, he or she will draw the plans, which can take anywhere from two weeks to two months depending on the project’s size.

Once the plans are completed, they’re submitted to the local building department. The wait time for approval depends on the size and scope of the project—a simple bathroom or kitchen remodel will take two to three weeks, while a whole house build will take four to five weeks. If revisions are needed, it’s typically a quick turnaround for the architect, and following resubmission, the plans should be approved and the permits granted within a couple of weeks.

All in all, from the initial meeting to the procurement of permits, you’re looking at six weeks to three months for an addition or remodel, or six months to a year for a whole house build (depending on the location). For this reason, it’s important to have realistic expectations about your project’s timeframe and plan accordingly.