How Long Does It Really Take to Build a Custom Home?
One of the most common questions we hear at PNK Custom Homes is:
“How long will it take to build my custom home?”
The answer depends on many factors—like design complexity, lot conditions, and municipal approvals—but knowing the general timeline helps you plan with confidence. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect when building a custom home in Ontario.
Step 1: Pre-Construction (2–6 Months)
Before a shovel ever hits the ground, there’s a lot of preparation involved:
Designing your home with an architect or designer
Finalizing drawings and material specifications
Submitting applications for building permits
Scheduling surveys, soil tests, or environmental checks
What to know: This stage is heavily influenced by the City’s review timelines. Even with an experienced builder managing the process, approvals can take weeks or months.
Step 2: Site Preparation & Permits (2–4 Weeks)
Once permits are in hand, we can prepare your lot:
Surveying and staking the build location
Demolition of existing structures (if applicable)
Clearing trees, rocks, or debris
Setting up temporary utilities and site access
What to know: Weather plays a role here—wet or frozen ground can cause delays.
Step 3: Foundation & Framing (2–3 Months)
This is where your home truly starts to take shape:
Excavation and foundation work (footings, foundation walls, drainage)
Framing of floors, walls, and roof structure
Rough openings for windows and doors
What to know: Once framing is complete, the house is “dried in” (protected from the elements), and interior work can begin.
Step 4: Mechanical Rough-Ins & Insulation (1–2 Months)
Behind-the-scenes systems get installed:
Plumbing, electrical, and HVAC rough-ins
Inspections for building code compliance
Insulation and vapour barriers
What to know: Coordinating multiple trades is key here. A boutique builder like PNK ensures seamless scheduling with trusted subcontractors.
Step 5: Interior & Exterior Finishes (3–5 Months)
This is the most exciting stage for homeowners:
Drywall, painting, trim, and flooring
Cabinetry, countertops, and fixtures
Exterior siding, brick, or stone finishes
Final touches like hardware and lighting
What to know: Custom finishes (like built-ins, specialty flooring, or imported materials) can extend this stage.
Step 6: Final Inspections & Move-In (1 Month)
Before handing you the keys, we ensure everything meets code and our own high standards:
Municipal inspections and occupancy permit
Punch-list items and finishing details
Deep cleaning and client walkthrough
What to know: A good builder won’t rush this stage. It’s about quality, safety, and your long-term satisfaction.
Total Timeline: 10–18 Months
On average, a custom home build in Burlington, Oakville, or Mississauga takes 10–18 months from start to finish, depending on design complexity, lot conditions, and the speed of municipal approvals.
Why Work With a Boutique Builder?
At PNK Custom Homes, we only take on a handful of projects each year. That means you get:
A realistic timeline you can trust
Hands-on project management with no hand-offs
A team that anticipates challenges and keeps your build moving
Ready to Start Planning Your Dream Home?
The sooner we begin design and permits, the sooner you’ll be moving in.
📞 Contact PNK Custom Homes today to book a consultation.