From permits to possession
Building a new home involves several important stages, each bringing the project one step closer to completion. This guide outlines the major construction milestones and explains what happens at each stage.
Phase 1 of 5
Permits & Foundation
Permits, excavation, footings, foundation walls and backfill.
- 1
Permits & Approvals
Before construction begins, the necessary building permits and approvals are obtained. These ensure the home is designed and constructed according to local regulations and applicable building codes.
- 2
Site Layout & Preparation
The home's location is marked on the property according to the approved plans. The site is prepared for excavation and construction.
- 3
Excavation
Excavators remove soil to create space for the home's foundation and basement. This is the first major physical step in the construction process.
- 4
Footings
Concrete footings are installed to support the foundation and distribute the home's weight into the ground. They provide a stable structural base for the entire home.
- 5
Foundation Walls
Concrete foundation walls are formed and poured on top of the footings. These walls create the basement structure and support the floors and walls above.
- 6
Weeping Tile & Waterproofing
Drainage piping, commonly called weeping tile, is installed around the foundation to help direct groundwater away. Waterproofing or damp-proofing materials are also applied to protect the foundation from moisture.
- 7
Underground Plumbing & Basement Preparation
Underground plumbing and necessary services are installed before the basement floor is poured. The floor area is prepared with gravel and other required materials.
- 8
Backfill
Once the foundation is ready and the necessary inspections are complete, soil is placed back around the foundation. This restores the surrounding ground and prepares the site for the next stages of construction.
Phase 2 of 5
Framing & Exterior
Framing, windows, rough-ins, roofing and exterior finishes.
- 9
Framing
The home's structural framework is assembled, including floors, walls, and roof trusses. This is when the home's layout, room sizes, and overall shape become visible.
- 10
Windows & Exterior Doors
Windows and exterior doors are installed to begin enclosing the home. This is an important step toward protecting the interior from outside weather conditions.
- 11
Plumbing Rough-In
Plumbers install water supply lines, drainage pipes, and venting systems throughout the home. Plumbing vent stacks that extend through the roof are prepared before roofing installation.
- 12
HVAC Rough-In
Heating, ventilation, and ductwork systems are installed throughout the home. Required roof penetrations for ventilation and exhaust systems are coordinated before roofing installation.
- 13
Roofing
Once the required plumbing and HVAC roof penetrations are prepared, the roofing system is installed. This helps protect the home from rain, snow, and other weather conditions.
- 14
Electrical Rough-In
Electricians install wiring, electrical boxes, and connections for lighting, outlets, and appliances. Exterior electrical components and necessary wall penetrations are prepared before siding installation.
- 15
Exterior Finishes
Siding, soffits, fascia, masonry, and other exterior finishes are installed. This stage gives the home its finished exterior appearance while providing protection from the elements.
Phase 3 of 5
Interior Preparation
Inspections, concrete floors, insulation and drywall.
- 16
Rough-In Inspections
Required framing, plumbing, electrical, and mechanical inspections are completed at the appropriate stages. These inspections help ensure the work meets applicable requirements before construction continues.
- 17
Basement & Garage Concrete Floors
Concrete floors are poured and finished in the basement and garage. Completing this work before insulation and vapour barrier installation helps manage construction moisture and reduces the risk of damage to finished interior materials.
- 18
Insulation & Vapour Barrier
Insulation is installed in the walls, ceilings, and other required areas to improve energy efficiency and comfort. Air-sealing and vapour-control materials help reduce heat loss and manage moisture within the home.
- 19
Drywall Installation
Drywall is installed on interior walls and ceilings, followed by taping, mudding, and sanding. This transforms the exposed framing into recognizable living spaces.
Phase 4 of 5
Interior Finishing
Trim, cabinets, paint, flooring, finals and two full cleans.
- 20
Prime & Texture
Interior walls and ceilings receive primer, and specified ceiling textures are applied. This prepares the surfaces for the remaining interior finishing stages.
- 21
Finish Carpentry
Interior doors, casings, baseboards, and other decorative trim are installed. These finishing details add character and help define the home's interior appearance.
- 22
Cabinet Installation & Countertops
Kitchen, bathroom, laundry, and other cabinetry are installed, followed by countertops. This is one of the most noticeable transformations as the home's main living spaces come together.
- 23
Interior Painting
Walls, ceilings, and applicable trim receive their finished paint coatings. This brings the selected colours and interior design together.
- 24
Hard Surface Flooring
Tile, luxury vinyl plank (LVP), and other hard surface flooring materials are installed. These durable finishes complete many of the home's primary living areas.
- 25
Stage 2 Finishing
Remaining interior finishing details, door hardware, shelving, accessories, and other scheduled components are installed. This stage brings together the final details that make the home functional and complete.
- 26
Plumbing, Electrical & HVAC Finals
Plumbing fixtures, faucets, toilets, light fixtures, switches, and mechanical equipment are installed and connected. Systems are tested and prepared for everyday operation.
- 27
Carpet Installation
Carpet and underlay are installed in the designated rooms and areas. Installing carpet near the end of construction helps protect it from unnecessary construction traffic and damage.
- 28
Closet Shelves, Mirrors & Shower Doors
Closet shelving is installed, along with bathroom mirrors and shower doors. Completing these items after carpet installation helps ensure the final accessories are installed with minimal risk of damage during construction.
- 29
Construction Cleaning
The home receives its initial detailed cleaning to remove construction dust, debris, and residue. This prepares the home for final quality inspections and touch-ups.
- 30
Paint Touch-Ups
Walls, trim, and painted surfaces are inspected for marks, scratches, or imperfections. Necessary touch-ups are completed to ensure a clean and professional finish.
- 31
Final Reclean
A second detailed cleaning removes any remaining dust or residue from the final finishing work. This ensures the home is clean and ready for the homeowner.
Phase 5 of 5
Final Inspections & Possession
Occupancy approval, your walkthrough, and the keys.
- 32
Final Inspections & Possession
Required final inspections and occupancy approvals are completed to confirm the home is ready for occupancy. The builder conducts a homeowner walkthrough, reviews important home features and warranty information, and completes the key handover once possession requirements are satisfied.
Welcome home!
The Haylo Contracting building experienceAt Haylo Contracting Ltd., we believe homeowners should understand the process of building their new home. From the first excavation to the final walkthrough, every construction milestone represents progress toward delivering a quality-built home.
Our goal is to keep homeowners informed throughout construction while maintaining quality workmanship, clear communication, and attention to detail.
Please note: Construction stages may overlap or vary depending on the home's design, weather conditions, trade scheduling, inspection requirements, and project-specific circumstances. Inspections are completed at the required stages throughout construction.
Where step 32 ends up
The Olivia in Tofield went through every step on this page and is finished and for sale now. Walk through it in the video tour, or book a showing and see the work in person.
Ready to start step 1 of 32?
Tell us about your lot and the home you want. Scott will walk you through permits, timing and a clear, itemized quote.