The honest answer is “between 8 and 20 weeks of construction, plus 4 to 12 weeks before that for design and permitting.” The range is wide because tenant improvements are not standardized products. But the phases are predictable, and knowing them helps you tell a realistic schedule from an optimistic one.
A typical timeline for a 5,000–8,000 sq ft fit-out
- Weeks 1–4 — Design & documentation. Space planning, finish selections, MEP engineering, permit-ready drawings.
- Weeks 3–8 — Permitting. Runs partly in parallel with design. Plan-check turnaround varies from days to two months by jurisdiction.
- Weeks 1–6 — Long-lead procurement. HVAC equipment, electrical switchgear, glass, and custom millwork ordered as soon as drawings allow.
- Weeks 8–10 — Demolition & rough-in. Selective demo, framing, overhead MEP rough-in, inspections.
- Weeks 11–14 — Drywall, finishes & millwork. Hang and finish drywall, paint, flooring, ceilings, casework.
- Weeks 15–17 — Trim-out & commissioning. Devices, fixtures, doors and hardware, balancing HVAC, final inspections.
- Week 18 — Punch list & certificate of occupancy.
The four things that add weeks
- Landlord approvals. Work letters, insurance, and building-standard sign-offs can quietly eat two to three weeks. Start them the day the lease is signed.
- Long-lead equipment. A rooftop HVAC unit at 10–16 weeks will set your schedule regardless of how fast the trades move.
- Permit revisions. One round of plan-check comments is normal; budget for it rather than being surprised by it.
- Change orders mid-build. Every added scope after demolition ripples through every trade that follows it.
Can it go faster?
Yes — a design-build team that overlaps permitting with early procurement and runs a two-shift schedule can deliver the same space in 10–12 weeks of construction. It costs more, and it depends on the landlord and the jurisdiction cooperating. The key is to decide you want the fast track before design starts, not after demolition is done.