What to Expect During the First 90 Days of Your Commercial Construction Project

Starting a commercial construction project can be both exciting and overwhelming—especially if it’s your first time managing a large-scale build. The first 90 days of construction set the tone for the entire project, and understanding what to expect during this critical phase can help prevent delays, manage costs, and keep everything on track.

At Construction, Design, and Management (CDM), we guide clients through each stage, ensuring smooth execution from day one. Whether you’re building a new office, retail space, warehouse, or healthcare facility, here’s what to expect during the first three months of construction.

1. Mobilization & Site Preparation (Weeks 1-4)

Once permits are approved and contracts are signed, the construction phase begins with mobilization and site preparation.

📌 Key Activities in the First Few Weeks:
✔ Site Survey & Staking: Engineers mark the precise layout of the building and ensure proper alignment with site plans.
✔ Clearing & Grading: Trees, old structures, and debris are removed, and the ground is graded for drainage.
✔ Temporary Utilities Installed: Water, power, and sanitation services are set up to support construction crews.
✔ Safety & Security Measures: Fencing, signage, and safety protocols are established to ensure a secure and OSHA-compliant worksite.

⚠️ Potential Roadblock: Soil issues, underground utilities, or unexpected site conditions can cause early delays.

✔ CDM’s Approach: We conduct site assessments early, minimizing surprises and ensuring a smooth transition into construction.

2. Foundation Work & Structural Preparations (Weeks 4-8)

A strong foundation is critical to the stability of the entire structure. During this phase, construction teams focus on excavation, footings, and foundational elements.

📌 Key Foundation & Structural Steps:
✔ Excavation & Earthwork: Crews dig trenches for footings and underground utilities.
✔ Concrete Pouring: Foundations, slabs, and reinforced footings are installed based on structural engineering plans.
✔ Underground Utilities: Plumbing, electrical conduits, and drainage systems are laid before the concrete cures.
✔ Structural Steel & Framing Prep: Once the foundation sets, crews begin placing steel supports or wood framing.

⚠️ Potential Roadblock: Weather delays (rain, extreme cold, or snow) can slow concrete curing and excavation.

✔ CDM’s Approach: We monitor weather conditions, use protective enclosures when needed, and adjust construction sequencing to keep progress moving.

3. Framing, Roofing, & Enclosure (Weeks 8-12)

With the foundation completed, the focus shifts to erecting the structure, enclosing the building, and preparing for interior work.

📌 Key Steps in Structural & Exterior Work:
✔ Framing & Load-Bearing Elements: Crews install steel beams, wood framing, or tilt-up concrete panels.
✔ Roofing & Waterproofing: Roofing materials are installed to protect against weather and water infiltration.
✔ Exterior Walls & Windows: Brick, metal panels, or siding is added along with commercial-grade windows and doors.
✔ HVAC, Electrical, & Plumbing Rough-Ins: Before interior walls go up, major mechanical systems are installed to ensure proper layout and connectivity.

⚠️ Potential Roadblock: Supply chain issues with steel, roofing materials, or windows can cause delays.

✔ CDM’s Approach: We secure materials early, working with trusted suppliers and manufacturers to avoid project slowdowns.

4. Quality Control & Inspections (Ongoing Throughout First 90 Days)

To ensure compliance and quality, routine inspections take place throughout the first three months.

📌 Key Inspections During Early Construction:
✔ Foundation & Structural Inspections: Ensure proper support, reinforcement, and load-bearing capacity.
✔ Electrical & Plumbing Rough-In Approvals: Inspectors verify code compliance before walls and ceilings are enclosed.
✔ Safety & OSHA Compliance Reviews: Workplace safety assessments prevent accidents and hazards.

⚠️ Potential Roadblock: Failed inspections due to minor code violations can delay progress.

✔ CDM’s Approach: We pre-inspect all work before official inspections, reducing the risk of compliance issues.

5. What Comes Next? Preparing for Interior Buildout

By the end of the first 90 days, the building is fully enclosed, structurally sound, and prepped for interior finishing.

📌 Next Steps After the First Three Months:
✔ Drywall Installation & Interior Walls
✔ Final HVAC, Electrical & Plumbing Installations
✔ Painting, Flooring & Ceiling Work
✔ Final Code Compliance & Walkthroughs

✔ CDM’s Approach: We maintain a strict schedule and coordinate subcontractors efficiently, ensuring a seamless transition into the final construction phases.

Final Thoughts: Set Your Project Up for Success

The first 90 days of construction lay the foundation for a smooth, efficient build. Understanding what to expect during this period helps avoid surprises, manage timelines, and keep your project on track.

At CDM, we specialize in keeping projects moving efficiently in Syracuse, Utica, Rome, Oswego, Fulton and the rest of Central New York and surrounding areas—handling permitting, site work, inspections, and structural builds with precision and expertise.

📞 Ready to start your commercial project? Contact CDM today to ensure a successful build from day one.