What's the best time of year to start a renovation in the Lower Mainland?

The best time to start a renovation in the Lower Mainland is late spring through early summer (May through July), allowing you to complete exterior work before the rainy season returns in October.

Seasonal Planning Strategy

The Lower Mainland's Mediterranean-like climate creates distinct renovation seasons that smart homeowners plan around. Your ideal start time depends heavily on your project scope, but the golden window is May through July for most major renovations. This timing allows you to tackle exterior work during our driest months and wrap up weather-sensitive components before the October rains arrive.

Interior vs. Exterior Considerations

Interior renovations can start year-round since you're protected from the elements, but even indoor projects benefit from spring starts. Kitchens and bathrooms are more comfortable to live without during warmer months when you can barbecue outside and use outdoor spaces. Plus, contractors are generally more available during winter months for interior work, potentially offering better rates.

For exterior work, timing is critical. Roofing, siding, exterior painting, and foundation work should be scheduled between May and September. Vancouver's rainy season typically runs October through March, with December and January seeing the heaviest rainfall. Attempting exterior work during these months leads to delays, weather damage to materials, and frustrated contractors.

Metro Vancouver Climate Reality

Our region receives over 1,200mm of annual rainfall, with 80% falling between October and March. The frost line sits at just 18 inches (much shallower than central Canada), so foundation work can continue year-round if properly managed. However, concrete curing and exterior finishes perform best in our dry summer months.

Contractor Availability and Pricing

Starting in May puts you ahead of the summer rush when every homeowner wants exterior work done. Book contractors in February or March for May starts to secure better scheduling and potentially better rates. Summer is peak season, so expect higher demand and pricing. Conversely, interior renovations started in fall or winter often see more competitive pricing as contractors seek to fill their schedules.

Permit Timeline Considerations

Vancouver's building permit process typically takes 4-8 weeks for simple projects and 3-6+ months for complex renovations. Submit permits in February or March for May construction starts. Other Metro Vancouver municipalities often process permits faster than the City of Vancouver, but still plan 6-12 weeks ahead.

Project-Specific Timing

Laneway houses and secondary suites benefit from spring starts since they involve both interior and exterior work. Kitchen renovations are ideal for late spring starts, completing before summer entertaining season. Bathroom renovations can start anytime but avoid holiday periods when fixture deliveries slow down.

Plan your renovation timeline by working backward from your desired completion date.