From First Call to Final Walkthrough.
A transparent, step-by-step journey with clear checkpoints. Scope, permit path, schedule, and price are confirmed in writing for each property, so you can see what is known and what still depends on review.
Pre-Construction
Planning, pricing, permits, and preparation before a single wall goes up. The duration depends on the property, scope, selections, and City review.
Discovery Call
30-Min CallEvery O.A.F project begins with a conversation. Not a sales pitch. Our discovery call is how we qualify you for an in-home site visit. We learn about your project goals, timeline, and budget, and you learn about our process, standards, and approach. This is where we determine if we're a good fit for each other.
- Discuss your project vision, goals, and timeline
- Understand your budget expectations
- Explain our fixed-price process and standards
- Determine mutual fit. Are we right for each other?
- If qualified, schedule an in-home site visit
- No obligation, no pressure. Just an honest conversation
Site Visit & Assessment
1-2 HoursOnce you've been qualified, we visit your home to assess the existing space in person. We take measurements, evaluate structural conditions, review mechanical systems, and discuss layout possibilities. This hands-on assessment gives us everything we need to build your fixed-price agreement.
- In-home site assessment and measurements
- Structural and mechanical evaluation
- Discussion of layout possibilities and options
- Feasibility review for permits and code compliance
- SSIP eligibility assessment (if applicable)
- Photos and documentation for project file
Fixed-Price Agreement
1-3 DaysBefore design or planning work begins, we provide a written agreement that identifies the included materials, labour, permit scope, allowances, exclusions, and change process. Address-specific conditions and selections are recorded so everyone can see what is confirmed and what remains conditional.
- Itemized cost breakdown. No hidden fees
- Material specifications and scope defined
- Payment schedule outlined clearly
- Project timeline with milestone dates
- Warranty terms and coverage details
- Change order process explained upfront
Design & Planning
1-2 WeeksWith the agreement signed, our design team creates a detailed floor plan and scope of work tailored to your space and lifestyle. You'll see exactly what your finished basement will look like before any work begins. And you'll have the opportunity to refine every detail within the agreed scope.
- Custom floor plan and layout design
- Electrical and plumbing layout planning
- Ceiling height optimization strategy
- Lighting plan and fixture placement
- Material and finish selection guidance
- Detailed scope of work document
Permits & Approvals
1-3 WeeksWe coordinate the permit applications and approvals required for the address, with drawings and scope aligned to the current City process. We keep you informed about reviews and required inspections while the build moves forward.
- Building permit application and submission
- Development permit (if required)
- Engineered drawings and structural review
- City of Calgary code compliance review
- SSIP application assistance (if applicable)
- Permit tracking and status updates
Pre-Construction Meeting
Half DayBefore we break ground, we hold a detailed pre-construction meeting at your home. We walk through every element of the project plan, confirm material selections, finalize the schedule, and set clear expectations for the build ahead.
- Final walkthrough of project plans
- Material and finish confirmations
- Construction schedule and milestones review
- Communication plan and point-of-contact setup
- Site protection and access protocols
- Meet your dedicated project team
Construction
Construction timing is scope-specific. From demolition to final walkthrough, each stage is coordinated with the project plan and required inspections.
Demolition & Framing
1-2 WeeksConstruction begins with site preparation, selective demolition (if needed), and framing. Walls go up, doorways are defined, and the skeleton of your new space takes shape. This is where your floor plan becomes reality.
- Site protection for existing finishes
- Selective demolition and debris removal
- Interior wall framing and layout
- Doorway and opening rough-ins
- Bulkhead and soffit construction
- Structural modifications (if engineered)
Mechanical Rough-Ins
1-2 WeeksLicensed sub-trades install all electrical wiring, plumbing lines, and HVAC ductwork behind the walls. This critical phase requires precision. Every circuit, drain, and vent is placed exactly where the plan specifies.
- Electrical wiring, panels, and circuit layout
- Plumbing rough-in for bathrooms, kitchens, wet bars
- HVAC ductwork and ventilation routing
- Low-voltage wiring (network, speaker, security)
- Bathroom fan and range hood venting
- Gas line rough-in (if applicable)
Insulation & Drywall
1-2 WeeksAfter mechanical inspections pass, walls are insulated for comfort and sound control, then finished with drywall. Joints are taped, mudded, and sanded smooth. Transforming the open frame into defined rooms and spaces.
- Vapour barrier and moisture protection
- Batt and/or spray foam insulation
- Sound insulation between rooms
- Drywall installation and finishing
- Taping, mudding, and sanding (Level 4 finish)
- Ceiling treatment and bulkhead finishing
Finishing & Trim
2-4 WeeksThis is where your basement truly comes to life. Flooring is laid, cabinetry and vanities are installed, tile work is completed, and every detail is finished to the O.A.F standard. Painting, trim, and hardware bring everything together.
- Flooring installation (LVP, tile, carpet)
- Interior painting and accent walls
- Cabinetry, vanities, and countertop install
- Tile work for bathrooms and backsplashes
- Trim, baseboards, and door hardware
- Lighting fixtures, outlets, and switch plates
- Plumbing fixtures and appliance hook-up
- Final mechanical connections
Final Inspection & Walkthrough
1-2 WeeksBefore we hand you the keys, we conduct a thorough internal quality review followed by the official City of Calgary final inspection. Then we walk through every room with you. Making sure everything meets your expectations and our standards.
- Internal O.A.F quality assurance review
- City of Calgary final building inspection
- Client walkthrough. Room by room
- Deficiency list and immediate corrections
- Warranty documentation and coverage handoff
- Maintenance guide and care instructions
- SSIP final documentation (if applicable)
- Project completion and celebration
What Sets Us Apart.
Every O.A.F project is backed by the same commitments. Fixed pricing, permit-aware planning, dedicated management, and a warranty with clear terms.
Fixed-Price Agreements
We provide a written agreement that defines the included materials, labour, permit scope, allowances, exclusions, and finishing before design begins. Address-specific conditions and the change process are recorded in the agreement.
Permit-Aware & Documented
We map the City of Calgary permit path for the address, coordinate required inspections, and document the approved scope. Final approvals depend on the authority having jurisdiction and the project conditions.
Dedicated Project Manager
You'll have a single point of contact throughout your entire project. Your project manager handles scheduling, coordinates trades, provides progress updates, and ensures every detail is executed to plan.
5-year Workmanship Warranty
We stand behind our work long after the last nail is driven. Every O.A.F project includes a documented 5-year workmanship warranty. Because quality construction should come with clear terms.
Process FAQs
A project-specific construction allowance may fall within an 8–16 week range after required approvals, but the address, scope, revisions, inspections, selections, and material lead times control the actual schedule. Permit review is separate and City-controlled; the written plan should identify the dependencies that apply to your project.
The agreement identifies the included materials, labour, permit scope, allowances, exclusions, and change process. Address-specific conditions and selections are recorded before construction so you can distinguish confirmed scope from items that still depend on review.
The discovery call is a 30-minute conversation where we learn about your project and you learn about our process. It's also how we qualify you for an in-home site visit. We discuss your goals, timeline, and budget, and determine if we're a good fit for each other. There's no obligation and no pressure. Just an honest conversation about what's possible.
No. Most of our clients continue their daily routines while construction is underway. We establish secure site access protocols during the pre-construction meeting, and your project manager will keep you informed with regular progress updates. We do recommend being available for key milestone walkthroughs.
Where permit coordination is part of the approved scope, we help prepare submissions, track review comments, and coordinate required inspections with the project team. The City controls approvals, inspection outcomes, and occupancy decisions, so the exact path is confirmed for each address.
It happens. Older homes sometimes reveal surprises once walls are opened. Outdated wiring, plumbing issues, or structural concerns. If we discover something unexpected, we stop, assess the situation, and present you with options and costs before proceeding. No work is done without your written approval.
Related Resources
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Book a Free Discovery Call.
No pressure, no obligation. Just an honest conversation about your basement project and whether we're the right fit for each other.
Get a Free Quote- You own your Calgary home
- You have a project in mind
- You want a clear, fixed price
- You are ready to discuss the next step