A whole-home renovation is the most complex residential construction project you can undertake. Multiple trades, sequential phasing, material lead times, and permitting all need to coordinate perfectly. This checklist is what Wilson & Co uses internally to keep whole-home renovations on track in Northeast Florida.
Phase 1: Pre-Design Planning
- Define your renovation goals (prioritize must-haves vs nice-to-haves)
- Establish a realistic budget range (we can help with this during consultation)
- Decide whether you will live in the home during renovation or relocate temporarily
- Research design-build firms and schedule consultations (aim for 2-3 meetings)
- Check your home’s property survey for setbacks if additions are planned
- Review your HOA architectural guidelines if applicable
- Contact your insurance agent about renovation coverage and builder’s risk policy
Phase 2: Design & Material Selection
- Approve floor plans and elevations
- Select all major finishes: cabinets, countertops, tile, flooring, fixtures
- Confirm appliance selections and order (lead times can be 4-12 weeks)
- Review and approve the detailed estimate with line-item breakdown
- Sign the construction contract with payment schedule tied to milestones
- If living off-site, arrange temporary housing
Phase 3: Permitting & Pre-Construction
- Confirm all permits are submitted and approved
- Pre-order materials with long lead times (cabinets, windows, specialty tile)
- Schedule utility disconnections or rerouting if needed
- Clear the work area — move furniture, protect items that are staying
- Establish a communication plan with your contractor (we do weekly written updates)
Phase 4: Construction (Typical Sequence)
- Demolition and rough structural work
- Foundation work for any additions
- Framing inspection
- Plumbing rough-in
- Electrical rough-in
- HVAC rough-in
- Insulation installation and inspection
- Drywall hanging and finishing
- Cabinet installation
- Countertop templating and installation
- Tile work (showers, floors, backsplash)
- Flooring installation
- Paint (walls, trim, doors)
- Fixture installation (plumbing, electrical, hardware)
- Final punch list walkthrough
Phase 5: Completion
- Final building inspection passed
- Certificate of Occupancy issued (if applicable)
- All punch list items completed
- Warranty documentation received
- Maintenance recommendations for new finishes reviewed
- Final payment per contract terms
Florida-Specific Considerations
Hurricane Season (June 1 — November 30)
If your renovation includes open walls or roof work, plan around hurricane season. Wilson & Co maintains weather protection during construction but exposed work faces higher risk during active storm months. Ideally, start major structural work in October-November for completion before the next hurricane season.
Humidity Management During Construction
Open walls in Florida humidity invite moisture problems. We close and condition spaces as quickly as possible and use dehumidifiers during construction to prevent moisture from being trapped in building materials.
Impact Windows and Doors
If your renovation includes window or door replacement, current Florida code requires impact-rated products (or approved shutters). Impact windows also qualify for insurance wind mitigation credits that can offset 15-30% of your annual premium.
Get Started
Download this checklist and bring it to your consultation. Call Wilson & Co at (904) 792-6175 for a free planning session.
Ready to Start Your Project?
Contact Wilson & Co Design Build for a free consultation on your remodeling project.