Project Sequencing Checklist

Proper order of operations for renovation projects. Prevents costly mistakes from doing things out of sequence and ensures inspection compliance.

Why Sequence Matters

Avoid Costly Backtracking: Doing things out of order means tearing out finished work

Pass Inspections: Many jurisdictions require inspections at specific stages

Coordinate Trades: Plumber needs to work before drywall goes up

This checklist covers typical full renovation. Smaller projects may skip phases.

Phase 1: Pre-Construction & Demolition

1. Planning & Permits

  • Finalize plans and specifications
  • Obtain all required permits
  • Schedule inspections
  • Order long-lead materials

2. Site Preparation

  • Set up dust barriers/containment
  • Protect floors and fixtures staying in place
  • Establish material staging areas

3. Demolition

  • Turn off utilities to affected areas
  • Remove fixtures, cabinets, finishes
  • Demo walls, ceilings as needed
  • Dispose of debris properly

⚠️ Before Demolition:

  • Test for lead paint (pre-1978 homes)
  • Test for asbestos (insulation, tiles, adhesives)
  • Identify load-bearing walls
  • Locate utilities in walls/floors
Phase 2: Structural Work

4. Foundation & Structural

  • Foundation repairs if needed
  • Install beams, posts, headers for removed walls
  • Reinforce floor joists
  • Frame new walls and openings

5. Rough Framing

  • Frame new walls and partitions
  • Install blocking for cabinets, fixtures
  • Frame for windows and doors
  • Install subfloor if needed

🔍 INSPECTION: Framing/Structural

Required before covering walls - verify structural work meets code

Phase 3: Rough Mechanicals

6. Plumbing Rough-In

  • Install drain, waste, and vent pipes
  • Run water supply lines
  • Install tub/shower bases (before walls closed)
  • Pressure test system

7. Electrical Rough-In

  • Install new circuits and wiring
  • Place outlet, switch, and fixture boxes
  • Run low-voltage (network, cable, speaker)
  • Install panel upgrades if needed

8. HVAC Rough-In

  • Install ductwork
  • Run refrigerant lines
  • Install vents and returns
  • Set equipment pads/platforms

🔍 INSPECTION: Rough Mechanical

Plumbing, electrical, HVAC must be inspected before insulation

Phase 4: Insulation & Drywall

9. Insulation

  • Install wall insulation (batt, blown, spray foam)
  • Insulate ceiling/attic
  • Install vapor barriers where required
  • Seal air gaps and penetrations

10. Drywall

  • Hang drywall (ceilings first, then walls)
  • Tape and mud joints
  • Sand smooth
  • Apply texture if desired

🔍 INSPECTION: Insulation

May be required before drywall - check local codes

Phase 5: Interior Finishes

11. Prime & First Coat Paint

  • Prime all new drywall
  • First coat on walls and ceilings
  • Paint before trim for easier cutting in

12. Cabinets & Millwork

  • Install kitchen/bath cabinets
  • Install interior doors
  • Install door casings and window trim
  • Install base molding

13. Countertops

  • Template after cabinets installed
  • Install countertops
  • Cut sink openings

14. Flooring

  • Install tile (bathrooms, kitchen)
  • Install hardwood/LVP
  • Install carpet (last flooring type)
Phase 6: Final Finishes & Fixtures

15. Plumbing Fixtures

  • Install toilets, sinks, faucets
  • Connect dishwasher, disposal
  • Install shower fixtures and doors

16. Electrical Finish

  • Install outlets, switches, cover plates
  • Install light fixtures
  • Install appliances
  • Test all circuits

17. Final Paint & Touch-Up

  • Paint trim
  • Final coat on walls
  • Touch up all damage from installation

18. Hardware & Accessories

  • Install cabinet hardware
  • Install mirrors, towel bars
  • Install door hardware

🔍 FINAL INSPECTIONS

Plumbing, electrical, building final - required for certificate of occupancy

Phase 7: Cleanup & Punch List

19. Deep Clean

  • Remove all construction debris
  • Clean windows inside and out
  • Clean all surfaces, fixtures
  • Clean HVAC vents and returns

20. Punch List

  • Walk through and note deficiencies
  • Touch up paint, caulk gaps
  • Adjust doors and hardware
  • Complete all unfinished items
Common Sequencing Mistakes

❌ Drywalling before rough inspection: May have to tear it out

❌ Flooring before cabinets: Wastes flooring, complicates cabinet leveling

❌ Painting trim before final coat on walls: Hard to cut in cleanly

❌ Installing carpet before painting: Risk of paint spatter

❌ Fixtures before painting: Difficult to paint around fixtures

❌ Forgetting blocking: Can't add it after drywall is up

Pro Tips

Schedule trades early: Good contractors book out weeks/months ahead

Order materials early: Especially custom items, cabinets, windows

Build in buffer time: Delays happen - plan for them

Keep permits posted: Inspectors need to see them

Document everything: Photos before closing walls are invaluable

Communicate with trades: Ensure everyone knows the schedule

Additional Information

About This Project Sequencing Guide

Proper project sequencing is the difference between a smooth renovation and a costly nightmare. Each construction phase must happen in the correct order - electrical and plumbing rough-in before drywall, drywall before trim, trim before final paint. Doing things out of sequence means tearing out finished work, failing inspections, and wasting time and money.

This comprehensive checklist walks you through the complete renovation sequence from permits and demolition through final punch list. You'll understand why each phase depends on the previous one, when inspections are required, and the critical dependencies that govern professional construction projects.

Whether you're managing a full gut renovation, a kitchen remodel, or a bathroom addition, this guide helps you plan your project timeline, coordinate trades, and avoid the most common sequencing mistakes that plague DIY renovators. Follow this order and your project will flow smoothly from start to finish.

Why Use This Reference Guide?

Sequencing mistakes are expensive and frustrating - they require rework, delay projects, and inflate budgets. This guide helps you plan and execute renovations in the correct order.

  • Understand the complete renovation sequence from demo to completion
  • Know when inspections are required and what they cover
  • Coordinate trades effectively with proper scheduling
  • Avoid common mistakes like drywalling before inspection
  • Plan material ordering and delivery timing
  • Ensure work is done in the most efficient order possible
Frequently Asked Questions

Free Project Sequencing Checklist - Simple Renovation Order | DIYProject.ai