In short
How long does an office fit-out project take?
The duration depends on floor area, the existing condition and the scope; it is set out in the engagement proposal. The lead times imposed by law are known and are counted back from the move-in date: 1 month for a prior declaration, 3 months for a building permit (other than a single-family house), 5 months if it concerns an ERP, 4 months for a works authorisation in an ERP without a permit, 1 month for the works council consultation failing an agreement (2 with an expert).
- These lead times run from a complete application; a request for further documents pushes them back.
- Near a listed historic monument or in a protected heritage area, the lead time is extended by one month.
- Permit processing and the works council consultation run in parallel where possible.
Time limits set by law
| Step | Standard time limit |
|---|---|
| Prior declaration (déclaration préalable) for works | 1 month processing |
| Building permit (other than for a single-family house) | 3 months processing |
| Project near a historic monument or in a listed heritage area (site patrimonial remarquable) | time limit extended by one month |
| Building permit for an ERP (building open to the public) | 5 months processing |
| Works authorisation in an ERP (without a permit) | 4 months processing |
| Works council (CSE) consultation, in the absence of an agreement | 1 month; 2 months with an expert |
These time limits run from receipt of a complete application. A request for additional documents pushes them back.
Planning backwards
- Target move-in date, notice period on the current lease.
- Move and installation.
- Works, then handover (réception) and clearing of snags (réserves).
- Contractor tender and signing of contracts.
- Processing of authorisations and works council consultation, in parallel where possible.
- Design and applications.
- Brief and choice of scenario.
The durations of design, tendering and works depend on the floor area, the condition of the existing premises and the scope: they are set in the engagement proposal, then kept to through site meetings.