Construction timelines are consistently underestimated — by homeowners, by optimistic contractors, and sometimes by reality. Here are honest timelines for common Bay Area projects.
Permit Timelines
San Francisco DBI: 4–12 weeks for plan check on residential renovations; ADUs can take 3–6 months. Oakland BSD: 4–8 weeks. San Jose: 3–6 weeks. Sacramento: 3–6 weeks. Plan permit approval into your project start date.
Common Project Durations
Bathroom remodel: 4–8 weeks construction. Kitchen remodel: 6–12 weeks. Room addition: 3–5 months. ADU: 5–8 months construction, 9–14 months total. Roof replacement: 1–5 days. Exterior painting: 1–2 weeks.
What Extends Timelines
Unexpected conditions inside walls, permit plan-check comment cycles, long-lead material fabrication (cabinetry: 4–8 weeks), and weather delays on exterior work are the most common causes. Experienced contractors build contingency into timelines and communicate delays early.