What causes delays in new home construction?

Common causes include weather (particularly wet conditions during earthworks or brickwork), material supply issues, trade availability, design changes mid-build, site issues discovered during construction, and council or certification delays. Some delays are unavoidable; others can be minimised with good planning.

Can I visit my build site during construction?

Yes, but with limitations. You typically need to arrange visits with your site supervisor and follow safety requirements. Weekly or fortnightly site meetings are common practice. Many builders also provide progress photos and online portals so you can track progress remotely.

What happens if my builder runs behind schedule?

Check your contract for the completion date and any liquidated damages clauses. Builders are generally entitled to extensions for weather, variations you request, and supply issues beyond their control. Keep records of progress and any delays. If delays seem unreasonable, raise concerns in writing early.

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Adelaide Building Guide

New Home Build Timeline

Name: BuildPilot
Address: Adelaide, SA, 5000, AU
Telephone: 1300 885 919
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What to expect at each stage of your Adelaide build.

Building a home involves dozens of coordinated steps. Understanding what happens when helps you track progress, spot potential issues early, and know when key decisions need to be made.

Every build is different, but most Adelaide project homes follow a similar sequence. Here's what to expect from contract signing through to getting your keys.

Pre-Construction Phase

Before construction starts, there's significant work happening behind the scenes. This phase typically takes 2-4 months.

Design and Selections (4-8 weeks)

Finalise your floor plan, facade, and internal selections. You'll visit selection studios to choose colours, finishes, flooring, tiles, and fixtures. Take your time here as changes during construction are expensive.

Working Drawings and Engineering (2-4 weeks)

Your builder produces detailed construction drawings based on your selections and site surveys. Engineering is completed for your specific soil conditions and site requirements.

Council/Certifier Approval (2-6 weeks)

Building approval is obtained through council or a private certifier. Timeframes vary depending on whether your build triggers development assessment or qualifies for a streamlined approval path.

Construction Stages

Once approvals are in place, construction begins. Each stage is tied to a progress payment.

Stage 1: Site Works and Base

2-4 weeks

Site is cleared and levelled. Services are connected. Footings are excavated and poured, followed by the concrete slab. This is when any unexpected site costs become apparent.

Stage 2: Frame

2-4 weeks

Wall frames go up and the roof trusses are installed. Your home takes shape. A frame inspection ensures everything is built to plan before walls are enclosed.

Stage 3: Lockup

4-8 weeks

External cladding (brick, render, or weatherboard) is completed. Roof is finished. Windows and external doors are installed. The building is now weather-tight and secure.

Stage 4: Fixing

4-6 weeks

Internal work begins. Plumbing and electrical rough-in are completed. Insulation is installed. Plasterboard goes up. Internal doors, architraves, skirting, and cabinetry are fitted. Tiling and wet area waterproofing are completed.

Stage 5: Completion

2-4 weeks

Final finishes including painting, flooring, and fit-off of electrical and plumbing fixtures. Appliances are installed. External works like driveway, paths, and landscaping are completed. Final clean and touch-ups.

Handover and Beyond

Practical Completion Inspection: Walk through your finished home with the builder. Note any defects or incomplete items on a list. Minor items shouldn't hold up handover, but significant issues should be addressed first.

Certificate of Occupancy: Your certifier issues this once final inspections are passed. You can't legally move in without it.

Key Handover: Once final payment is made and all paperwork is complete, you get your keys. The builder will walk you through how everything works.

Defects Period: Most contracts include a 13-week maintenance period. Any defects that emerge should be reported to your builder promptly. Structural warranties typically run for 6 years.

How BuildPilot Helps

*Track progress and flag any delays early
*Attend key inspections on your behalf if needed
*Review variations and change requests
*Assist with practical completion inspection

Common Questions

Most project homes take 8-12 months from slab pour to handover. Custom homes typically take 12-18 months. Add 3-6 months before construction starts for design, approvals and site preparation. Total timeline from signing to moving in is usually 12-18 months for project homes, longer for custom builds.