Starting a home construction or major remodeling project is an exciting step toward creating a space that truly reflects your lifestyle. Whether you’re planning a new ADU, a kitchen renovation, or a ground-up build, one of the most common questions we hear at Coleman Build is: “How long will this take?”

The truth is, every project is unique—no two homes, lots, or families are exactly alike. But there is a standard process that almost all residential construction projects follow. Understanding the typical timeline can help you plan, budget effectively, and approach your project with confidence.

Below, we break down the major phases of a home construction project in Los Angeles and what to expect during each one.

Your project begins with a conversation. During the initial consultation, our team meets with you to discuss:

• Your goals and vision for the space
• Style preferences and inspiration
• Functional needs (storage, layout, accessibility, etc.)
• Budget parameters
• Desired timeline

We ask questions, take notes, and conduct a preliminary assessment of the site if applicable. The goal is to make sure we clearly understand what you want to build—and to begin shaping the project in a direction that aligns with both your goals and realistic feasibility.

Outcome of This Stage: A shared vision and conceptual direction.

Once the general direction is clear, the design phase begins. This includes:

• Architectural drawings
• Space planning and layout options
• 3D visualization (in some cases)
• Material research and finish concepting
• Coordination with structural and MEP engineers if needed

For remodels, we also conduct detailed measurements of your existing home. For ADUs or new builds, we review zoning, setbacks, and building code requirements specific to Los Angeles.

This stage may take longer if you are making design revisions—which is common and completely normal. It’s better to make changes on paper than during construction.

Outcome of This Stage: Finalized plans ready for city submission.

Navigating permitting in Los Angeles can be one of the more time-consuming phases. The timing depends on:

• The complexity of your project
• Whether structural, grading, or special reviews are required
• Current city workload

This phase may involve several back-and-forth rounds with plan checkers. At Coleman Build, we handle communication with the city to streamline the process and minimize delays.

While waiting for permit approval, many clients use this time to finalize material choices such as tile, flooring, fixtures, cabinetry, and appliances.

Outcome of This Stage: A approved building permit and permission to begin construction.

Before breaking ground, we confirm:

• Construction schedule
• Procurement timelines
• Subcontractor coordination
• Jobsite readiness (temporary fencing, utilities, dumpster access, etc.)

If specific items have longer lead times—such as custom windows, cabinetry, or specialty finishes—this is when we place orders to ensure they arrive on schedule.

Outcome of This Stage: A ready-to-build site and organized logistics plan.

This is the exciting part—when the design becomes reality. Construction typically follows this sequence:

1. Site Preparation & Demolition: Clearing the work area, removing existing structures or finishes, grading if needed.
2. Foundation or Framing Work: For remodels, this may mean structural modifications. For ADUs or new builds, the foundation and framing create the structure.
3. Rough Mechanical, Electrical & Plumbing (MEP): Before walls are closed, all hidden systems are installed and inspected.
4. Insulation & Drywall: The interior begins to take shape.
5. Interior Finishes: Flooring, cabinetry, countertops, tilework, paint—this is where personality visibly shows.
6. Exterior Work: Stucco, siding, exterior paint, roofing, hardscape, and landscaping if included in scope.

Throughout construction, Coleman Build maintains open communication through progress updates, site walkthroughs, and proactive issue resolution—because every project requires decisions and adjustments along the way.

Outcome of This Stage: A near-complete home ready for final review.

Before you officially move in or begin using the space, the building department conducts final inspections. After passing inspection, we perform a detailed walkthrough with you to identify any final touch-ups or adjustments—this is called the punch list.

We address every item to ensure the final result meets our quality standards and your expectations.

Outcome of This Stage: A finished, code-approved, move-in-ready space.

Congratulations—your project is complete! We provide:

• Warranty documentation
• Maintenance recommendations
• Any product guides or manuals related to your finishes or fixtures

Our relationship doesn’t end here. We stand by our work and remain available should any questions come up later.

Several factors can speed up—or slow down—a project:

• Permit timelines (especially in Los Angeles)
• Scope complexity and structural work
• Material lead times (e.g., custom cabinetry)
• Decision-making speed during design and construction
• Changes to the plan mid-project

At Coleman Build, we work closely with you to anticipate and minimize delays wherever possible.

A home construction project is a journey—and having the right team makes all the difference. At Coleman Build, our goal is to guide you clearly and confidently through each stage so the experience feels organized, transparent, and aligned with your vision.

If you’re considering a remodel, ADU, or new build in Los Angeles, we’d love to talk.

Contact Coleman Build

Build with clarity. Build with care. Build with Coleman.