Planning a home extension can be exciting — more space, better flow, and added property value. But one of the first questions every homeowner asks is: how long does a home extension take?
The answer depends on many factors such as size, design complexity, approvals, and your builder’s schedule. In this guide, we’ll explore the extension timeline, break down each construction stage, and share tips for keeping your project on schedule.
Understanding Your Extension Timeline
Every home extension follows a similar pattern: planning, approvals, construction, and finishing touches. While each project is unique, most extensions in Melbourne take 4 to 9 months from design to completion.
Smaller single-room additions may be finished in a few months, while larger two-storey extensions or structural changes can stretch beyond a year.
Average Project Duration in Melbourne
Here’s a general overview of how long each phase usually takes:
- Initial Consultation & Design Concepts: 2–4 weeks
- Approvals & Permits: 4–8 weeks
- Pre-Construction & Site Preparation: 2–3 weeks
- Construction Stage: 12–24 weeks
- Finishing & Final Inspections: 2–4 weeks
Altogether, a realistic construction timeframe for a standard home extension ranges from 5 to 9 months, depending on the project’s complexity.
Step-by-Step Extension Schedule
1. Design and Planning Stage
The journey begins with defining your goals — more living space, an extra bedroom, or an extended kitchen. You’ll work with a designer or builder to draft floor plans, select materials, and set a preliminary budget.
This stage generally takes 2 to 6 weeks, depending on design changes and council requirements.
2. Council Approvals and Permits
Once designs are finalised, your builder or architect lodges documents for approval. In Victoria, this includes:
- Building Permit (from a registered surveyor)
- Planning Permit (if required by local council)
This can take anywhere from 4 to 10 weeks, depending on council workload and the complexity of your extension.
3. Site Preparation and Demolition
Before construction begins, the builder prepares the site — clearing vegetation, levelling ground, and removing old structures if necessary.
Expect this to take 1 to 3 weeks. For major works like second-storey additions, temporary support structures might also be installed.
4. Construction Phase
This is where your home begins to take shape. The construction timeframe typically includes:
- Foundations and Framing: 2–4 weeks
- Roofing and External Walls: 3–5 weeks
- Plumbing and Electrical Installations: 2–3 weeks
- Internal Fit-Out and Finishes: 4–6 weeks
Larger or double-storey extensions may extend this phase to 6 months or more.
5. Final Touches and Handover
After the main build is complete, your builder performs final inspections, touch-ups, and quality checks. Once approved by the building surveyor, you’ll receive your occupancy certificate.
This last phase usually takes 2 to 4 weeks.
Factors That Affect Extension Duration
Several elements influence how long your extension takes to finish:
- Project Size and Complexity
A simple rear living-room extension is faster than adding an entire second storey. - Weather Conditions
Melbourne’s unpredictable rain and cold can delay exterior works like roofing and rendering. - Council and Permit Delays
Some local councils process approvals slower than others, especially in heritage zones. - Material Availability
Supply chain issues or special-order finishes can extend your build time. - Contractor Scheduling
Busy seasons (spring–summer) often lead to longer wait times for trades. - Scope Changes Mid-Project
Altering layouts or materials during construction usually adds weeks to your schedule.
Tips to Keep Your Extension on Track
To prevent delays and maintain control over your extension schedule, follow these expert tips:
- Lock in designs early: Avoid constant changes after council submission.
- Choose experienced builders: They know local councils and common pitfalls.
- Set realistic deadlines: Allow buffer time for weather or supply delays.
- Communicate regularly: Stay in touch with your builder for updates.
- Approve variations quickly: Fast decisions keep trades on schedule.
Single-Storey vs Double-Storey Extension Timelines
A single-storey extension generally takes around 5 to 7 months, while a double-storey addition may extend to 8 to 12 months.
Why the difference?
- Additional structural engineering
- Scaffolding and height restrictions
- More complex plumbing and electrical layouts
If you’re adding multiple bedrooms, a bathroom, and living space, plan for extra time and cost flexibility.
Should You Stay Home During Construction?
Many Melbourne homeowners ask whether they can live in the house during an extension.
For small projects (like rear extensions), it’s sometimes possible. However, larger or upper-level builds are noisy, dusty, and may involve disconnected utilities. Most people choose temporary accommodation to save time and ensure safety.
Realistic Expectations for Your Construction Timeframe
Every builder will provide an estimated project duration, but remember it’s only a guide. External factors like weather, materials, and approvals are beyond their control.
Ask your builder for a detailed construction timeline with milestone dates — foundation completion, roofing, plastering, and handover. This helps you track progress and identify delays early.
Conclusion
So, how long does a home extension take? For most Melbourne homeowners, expect anywhere between 4 and 9 months, depending on size and complexity.
By understanding the process, planning ahead, and choosing a reliable builder, you can keep your extension timeline realistic and stress-free.
A well-executed extension adds both space and value — and with the right team, the journey can be as rewarding as the finished result.
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