How Long Does a 100-Unit Renovation Take?
A full renovation of a 100-unit Houston apartment complex typically takes nine to fourteen months from contract to final punch list. The exact timeline depends on permit speed, material lead times, occupancy, weather, and contractor bandwidth. Understanding the phases helps owners set realistic expectations and communicate with lenders and investors.
Phase One: Due Diligence and Design (Weeks 1 to 6)
During due diligence, conduct property inspections, review financials, and develop a renovation scope. Work with a contractor to create line-item budgets and identify long-lead materials. Finalize finish specifications and order samples. Submit permit drawings to the City of Houston or relevant municipality. Early ordering prevents delays later.
Phase Two: Mobilization (Weeks 7 to 10)
Once the project is funded, the contractor mobilizes. This includes setting up staging areas, securing materials, scheduling sub-trades, and confirming tenant notification plans. Safety protocols are established for occupied buildings. A pre-construction meeting with property management aligns schedules and communication.
Phase Three: Pilot or Phase One Renovation (Weeks 11 to 22)
Most 100-unit projects start with a pilot phase of ten to twenty units. The pilot tests the finish package, contractor pacing, and tenant response. After the pilot, refine the scope and pricing before rolling out to the remaining units. Completing a pilot reduces risk across the broader project.
Phase Four: Full Rollout (Weeks 23 to 48)
The rollout proceeds floor by floor or building by building. A well-staffed crew can complete four to eight units per week depending on scope. Common area and exterior work often run in parallel. Regular job site walks, quality checks, and punch lists keep standards consistent. Occupied-unit renovations require careful coordination around tenant schedules.
Phase Five: Punch List and Closeout (Weeks 49 to 54)
After construction ends, walk every unit and common area with the contractor. Document deficiencies and set a completion deadline. Finalize lien waivers, as-built drawings, warranty information, and closeout documents. Once punch items are resolved, the project is officially complete and can be marketed at full value.
Factors That Extend the Timeline
- Permit delays at the city or Harris County
- Material lead times for cabinets, appliances, or flooring
- Weather events such as hurricanes or heavy rain
- High occupancy requiring more phased work
- Discovery of hidden conditions like asbestos or plumbing failures
- Contractor availability in a busy Houston construction market
How to Protect the Schedule
Protect your timeline by ordering materials early, pre-qualifying contractors, and keeping a tight punch process. Clear communication between ownership, management, and construction teams prevents small issues from becoming schedule killers. Build a buffer into your lender timeline and pro forma.
Plan Your Renovation Timeline With Tell Projects
Tell Projects develops detailed construction schedules for Houston multifamily renovations of every size. We help owners plan phased rollouts that protect occupancy and cash flow. Call (832) 203-7987 to build a realistic timeline for your 100-unit project.