The Construction Timeline: What to Expect from Groundbreaking to Handover
A realistic timeline for luxury residential and commercial construction projects in Nigeria, from site acquisition to final handover.
One of the most common questions we hear at FURD BASE is: “How long will my project take?” The answer depends on the scope, site conditions, and procurement strategy. Here’s a realistic, phase-by-phase breakdown for a typical luxury residential project in Abuja (400-600m²).
Phase 1: Pre-Construction (2-4 Months)
Before a single shovel hits the ground, significant work must be completed.
| Activity | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Site survey & geotechnical investigation | 2-3 weeks | Borehole drilling, SPT, lab testing |
| Architectural design development | 4-8 weeks | Schematic design → design development → construction documents |
| Structural engineering | 3-4 weeks | Parallel with architectural CD phase |
| Approvals & permits | 4-8 weeks | Abuja FCDA, Abuja Municipal Area Council |
| Contractor procurement | 2-4 weeks | Tender, evaluation, negotiation |
Total: 8-16 weeks
Phase 2: Site Preparation & Foundation (2-3 Months)
- Site clearing, demarcation, and temporary facilities: 1 week
- Earthworks (cut/fill, compaction): 2-3 weeks
- Foundation excavation: 1-2 weeks (depending on type — raft vs. piled)
- Reinforcement, formwork, and concrete pour: 3-4 weeks
- Curing and waterproofing: 2 weeks
Total: 8-12 weeks
In Abuja’s two rainy seasons (April-July, September-October), expect delays. Smart planning schedules foundation work for the dry season.
Phase 3: Structural Frame (3-5 Months)
- Ground floor columns, beams, slab: 3-4 weeks per floor
- Upper floors: 2-3 weeks per floor (post-tensioned slabs cure faster)
- Roof structure: 2-4 weeks
For a 2-storey luxury residence with a roof terrace, budget 12-16 weeks.
Phase 4: Building Envelope (2-3 Months)
- External walling (sandcrete blocks or precast panels): 3-4 weeks
- Window and door installation: 2-3 weeks
- Roofing and waterproofing: 2-3 weeks
- External rendering and cladding: 3-4 weeks
Total: 10-14 weeks
Phase 5: MEP & Interiors (4-6 Months)
This is the longest phase and where most delays occur:
- Rough-in MEP (conduits, piping, ductwork): 4-6 weeks
- Plastering and screeding: 3-4 weeks
- Tiling, stonework, and joinery: 6-8 weeks
- Kitchen and wardrobe installation: 3-4 weeks
- Painting and wall finishes: 3-4 weeks
- Lighting, switches, and fixtures: 2-3 weeks
- Flooring (engineered wood, marble, epoxy): 3-4 weeks
Total: 16-24 weeks
Phase 6: Finishing & Handover (1-2 Months)
- Landscaping and external works: 3-4 weeks
- Snagging and defects rectification: 2-3 weeks
- Final cleaning and handover: 1 week
Total: 6-8 weeks
Overall Timeline Summary
| Project Type | Estimated Duration |
|---|---|
| Luxury residence (400-600m²) | 12-16 months |
| Luxury duplex (600-1000m²) | 16-20 months |
| Mixed-use commercial (1000-3000m²) | 18-24 months |
| High-rise residential (8+ floors) | 24-36 months |
How FURD BASE Delivers on Time
We use a phased fast-track approach: while the foundation is being built, we’re fabricating the steel reinforcement and ordering the Low-E glass. This overlapping of phases can shave 2-4 months off the total timeline without compromising quality.
Want a detailed project schedule tailored to your development? Contact our project management team.