Every homeowner hits a point during their build or renovation when it feels like everything’s just… stuck.

Nothing’s happening. No one’s on site. You’re waiting for updates. Your emails say “just waiting on a few things.” And you start wondering if this project will ever end.

The truth? Delays are part of the process.

But many of them are manageable if you know where they usually come from. These are the three biggest culprits I see stall a project mid-build (and one bonus one that happens more than you’d think).

Let’s break it down.

1. Waiting on Decisions

Paint colours. Tile layouts. Shower fixtures. Exterior lights.

It all adds up. And most of the time, things come to a screeching halt because someone’s still trying to decide.

What homeowners don’t always realize is that even the smallest design choice often has a ripple effect. Holding off on a decision or waiting too long to choose one product can delay three other trades or stop work altogether. 

How to help it along:

• Make as many decisions as early as possible. Your architectural plans should have as much information on the plans to answer all questions to the structure. Hiring an Interior Designer will answer the remaining questions. Bonus is if you hire a landscaper that will answer those questions.

• You can’t always wait for the “perfect” tile or paint colour — choose something similar you’ll love and can get.

• Don’t focus on what you can’t have. If it’s not possible, find out what your options are. Either way, keep moving forward.

2. Supply Chain Delays

Windows. Doors. HVAC units. Custom cabinetry. The longer the lead time, the higher the chance it throws off your timeline. This has been especially common post-2020, but even now, delays still happen more often than people expect.

And when one key piece doesn’t arrive — everything waits.

How to help it along:

• Order long-lead items as early as your builder recommends.

• Have a backup product in case your top choice is unavailable.

• If something’s essential to layout (like a tile pattern, tub or range), don’t finalize plans until it’s confirmed and, in some cases, in hand.

3. Inspection + Permit Delays

This is one of the most misunderstood — and most frustrating — causes of delay. Inspections are required at nearly every stage of construction, and if something’s not quite right, the whole project pauses.

Sometimes it’s as simple as a small revision. Other times, it’s a much bigger issue — especially if the work being done no longer matches the original plans.

And if you’ve changed something structurally, you’ll likely need new drawings, new engineering, and another round of approvals before moving forward.

How to help it along:

• Keep your plans and permit drawings up to date

• Don’t assume your contractor is handling every piece of paperwork — ask if everything is aligned

• If you want to make a change, talk to your designer or consultant first to understand the impact

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Bonus: Trade Coordination Delays

Most homeowners don’t see this part — and you shouldn’t have to. It’s not your job to manage trades. That’s your general contractor’s job.

But sometimes, delays happen when one trade is done and the next can’t start yet. Schedules don’t always align, especially with staggered projects or last-minute design changes.

What you can do:

• Communicate changes early so your GC. can coordinate accordingly.

• Don’t panic if there’s a quiet day or two — sometimes that’s part of the process.

• If there is a large gap in the schedule and your GC has not let you know, then be sure to talk to them. They should be communicating this for your peace of mind.

Delays are part of building. That’s the truth. But the more prepared you are, the fewer surprise delays you’ll face.

If you want to protect your budget, your timeline, and your sanity — don’t wait until the last minute to make decisions. Trust your builder, but also stay involved enough to know when something’s stalled and why.

The most successful builds aren’t the ones that never hit a snag — they’re the ones that stay communicated, proactive, flexible with the schedule, and clear on the next step.