⏱️ The Real Timeline of a Custom Build or Major Remodel in Los Angeles
🏡 Introduction
When clients start a new construction or major remodel, one of the first questions they ask is:
“How long will it take?”
The truth? In Los Angeles, building timelines depend on design complexity, permitting, and inspections, not just labor.
At Nail & Hammer Construction Corp, we believe in transparency — so here’s a realistic, phase-by-phase breakdown of how long a custom build or full-scale remodel truly takes in Los Angeles.
🧾 Phase 1: Planning & Design (2–4 Months)
Before construction begins, your project goes through design, budgeting, and permitting preparation.
What Happens Here:
Architectural plans & 3D renderings
Structural & engineering review
Title 24 energy compliance
Budget estimate & design revisions
Pre-submission review for LADBS
Average Duration:
🗓️ 8–16 weeks depending on scope and responsiveness.
✅ Nail & Hammer Tip: We front-load this phase to prevent change orders later. Every hour spent in planning saves days in construction.
🏛️ Phase 2: Permitting & Approvals (2–6 Months)
Los Angeles is known for its rigorous LADBS permit process, which varies by project type.
Key Approvals Include:
Building & structural permits
Electrical, plumbing, and mechanical permits
Zoning and setback verification
Coastal, hillside, or historic overlays (if applicable)
Typical LADBS Timelines:
Simple remodel or ADU: 6–10 weeks
Major remodel or new build: 3–6 months
✅ How We Manage It: Nail & Hammer handles all plan submissions, corrections, and inspector communication directly — ensuring no paperwork bottlenecks.
🏗️ Phase 3: Site Preparation & Demolition (1–3 Weeks)
Once permits are issued, we clear the site for new construction.
Includes:
Demolition of existing structures
Utility disconnection and rerouting
Rough grading and soil prep
Erosion control measures
Average Duration:
🗓️ 1–3 weeks
✅ We manage dumpster coordination, dump fees, and debris removal — all under one contract.
🧱 Phase 4: Foundation & Framing (4–8 Weeks)
This is when the build takes shape.
Key Steps:
Trenching and formwork
Rebar placement and foundation pour
Framing walls, floors, and roof
Structural inspections
Average Duration:
🗓️ 1–2 months depending on size and weather.
✅ LADBS requires foundation and framing inspections before moving forward — we schedule and pass these without delay.
⚙️ Phase 5: Rough Systems & Inspections (4–6 Weeks)
Once the framing is complete, we install all major mechanical systems:
Electrical wiring and panels
Plumbing lines and venting
HVAC ducts and registers
Fire sprinklers (if required)
Average Duration:
🗓️ 4–6 weeks
✅ We coordinate each trade’s schedule to pass rough inspections (plumbing, electrical, framing) simultaneously, saving weeks.
🪵 Phase 6: Insulation, Drywall & Finishes (8–12 Weeks)
This is where your project transforms from structure to home.
Scope Includes:
Insulation and vapor barrier inspection
Drywall hanging, taping, and texturing
Flooring, cabinetry, tile, and trim installation
Painting, fixtures, and finish carpentry
Average Duration:
🗓️ 2–3 months
✅ Because we’re 5th-generation carpenters, this phase is where our craftsmanship shines — we never rush finishes for speed.
💡 Phase 7: Final Inspections & Sign-Offs (2–4 Weeks)
Once all work is complete, we coordinate final LADBS inspections for every trade.
Includes:
Final electrical and plumbing approval
Energy and Title 24 verification
Structural sign-off
Certificate of Occupancy (CofO)
Average Duration:
🗓️ 2–4 weeks depending on inspection availability and corrections.
✅ We schedule, document, and meet inspectors on-site — ensuring your project closes cleanly and legally.
🏁 Total Project Timeline Summary
Kitchen or Bathroom Remodel: 1 to 2 months
Whole-Home Remodel: 3 to 6 months
Detached ADU: 8 to 12 months
Custom New Home: 12 to 18 months
Note: Projects in hillside, coastal, or historic zones often take longer due to city overlays and environmental reviews.
🧠 What Can Speed Up the Process
✅ Complete designs before applying for permits
✅ Hire a local, licensed general contractor familiar with LADBS
✅ Respond quickly to plan check corrections
✅ Avoid mid-project design changes
✅ Schedule materials early to avoid supply delays
At Nail & Hammer, we manage all phases in-house — from architecture to closeout — streamlining every step.
✅ Conclusion
Every construction project has moving parts, but with the right team and clear expectations, it doesn’t have to feel overwhelming.
At Nail & Hammer Construction Corp, we’ve refined our process to minimize delays, keep communication open, and deliver quality on schedule — whether it’s a full remodel or a ground-up custom build.
📞 Call 424-800-3704 today to schedule a consultation and get a customized project timeline for your Los Angeles home.
