From First Call to Final Walkthrough.
A transparent, step-by-step journey with clear timelines, fixed pricing, and zero surprises. Every O.A.F project follows the same proven path. So you always know exactly what's happening and what comes next.
Pre-Construction
2-4 Weeks. Planning, pricing, permits, and preparation before a single wall goes up.
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 any design or planning work begins, we provide a comprehensive fixed-price agreement. Every element is itemized and locked in. From materials to labour to permits. The price you agree to is the price you pay. No estimates, no allowances, no surprise extras. This agreement is signed before we invest in design, so everyone is aligned from the start.
- 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 handle every permit application and approval required by the City of Calgary. Our team has deep experience navigating municipal requirements, ensuring your project is fully compliant from day one. You don't have to lift a finger.
- 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
6-12 Weeks. From demolition to final walkthrough, every stage inspected and verified.
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, full permits, dedicated management, and a warranty that means something.
Fixed-Price Agreements
No estimates, no allowances, no change-order games. We provide a comprehensive, fixed-price agreement that covers everything. Materials, labour, permits, and finishing. The price you agree to is the price you pay. Locked before design begins.
Fully Permitted & Inspected
Every O.A.F project is built with full City of Calgary permits and passes all required inspections. We don't cut corners on compliance. Your investment is protected by proper documentation and code-compliant construction.
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 comprehensive 5-year warranty on workmanship. Because quality construction shouldn't come with caveats.
Process FAQs
Most O.A.F projects are completed within 8 to 16 weeks, depending on the scope of work. The pre-construction phase (design, permits, and planning) typically takes 2 to 4 weeks, followed by 6 to 12 weeks of construction. Timelines can vary depending on project complexity, permit processing, and material lead times. But we keep you informed at every stage.
Everything. Our fixed-price agreement covers design, permits, materials, labour, inspections, and finishing. There are no hidden fees, no allowances, and no surprise extras. If it's in the scope of work, it's in the price. Importantly, we lock the price before any design or planning work begins. So you have complete financial clarity from the start.
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.
We handle everything. Our team submits all permit applications to the City of Calgary, schedules required inspections at each phase, and ensures your project meets all building code requirements. You'll be notified when inspections are happening and when they pass. But you won't have to coordinate or manage any of it yourself.
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're ready to start within 3 months