How to Plan a Timeline for a Commercial Construction Project

Are you planning for a new construction project but are unsure of how long it will take or what to do first? The options can feel endless, whether you’re looking into tenant improvements, finishing out a new space, or renovating an older location.

The fear of the unknown is perfectly understandable. FEAR NOT, because the team at NorthStar Commercial Interiors is here to help you through the commercial development process from beginning to end.

We’ve had years of commercial construction experience and have helped many small business owners finish out their locations, so today we’re giving you an essential list to help you to feel confident in starting your new building project. 

Here is a valuable Steps and Timelines resource  for your shell space finish-out or commercial remodel project. Commercial builds can be broken down into a series of steps. This article provides a detailed guide to the construction timeline, from start to finish.

Step 1: Define Your Goals & Meet with Commercial Professionals



The first step is to clearly define your goals and objectives for the building project. Ask questions like How will this space serve your clients or employees? Think about the finish-out style. Do you need a WOW factor or common office materials?  Then begin assembling your team of experts. Meet with a commercial r\Realtor and a general contractor to discuss the details of the project, including a budget, timeline, and functional requirements. This will help you determine the scope of the project and identify any potential roadblocks that may arise during the construction process.

Step 2: Drawings & Budget Estimate:

1-to-2 week timeline

Next, create schematic drawings and a budget estimate. The initial drawings can  be developed by the general contractor (GC) with input from the owner. This helps you both visualize the space and work through the details of the features and functionality. After the building project is defined, your GC will put together a budget estimate. This provides estimated costs for preliminary planning. A final budget will be based on approved architectural and engineering plans. Once the initial plans are finalized, it is time for the next step.

Step 3: Blueprints:

3-to-5 week timeline

Now the plans are turned over to the architect and the mechanical (HVAC), electrical, and plumbing engineers (aka MEP's). Blueprints are generated which include detailed drawings and specifications. During this process, changes are made as the best options are thought through. Cost and construction implications are addressed, which saves potential time delays in addition to controlling expenses.

Step 4: Permits:

3-to-5 week timeline

As soon as the blueprints are approved, the GC will assemble the necessary documentation to submit to the local city building department. Each city’s building permitting process is unique. Attention to detail in this area is critical for a prompt permit approval–and at NorthStar Commercial Interiors, we pride ourselves on attention to detail! Read some of our client reviews to see what others think. 

Step 5: Construction:

As soon as permits are approved, construction can begin

Timelines for the construction process will depend on the project’s scope of work. Once permits are secured and plans are finalized, construction can begin. The project manager or GC will work with the various trades (i.e., electricians and plumbers) to ensure the work is completed on time and within budget. Based on the type of construction or remodel project, cities require periodic inspections to certify the work is completed properly and up to code. Timely and clear communication with your project manager or GC throughout the process is critical.

Step 6: Final Walk-Through & Inspection:

2 to 3 business days

After construction is finished, the GC will conduct a final walk-through of the site to ensure everything is up to the owner's standards. In addition, a final inspection with the city will be completed and the Certificate of Occupancy provided. Time to open for business!

Working with a knowledgeable and trustworthy commercial general contractor from the planning stage to completion is critical to a successful project. North Star Commercial Interiors specializes in helping small business owners through these construction processes. Contact us today to discuss your commercial shell space finish-out, commercial remodel or disaster recovery project.

To help you get started, download the Steps and Time Line Reference here.