“How long will it take?” is the second question every client asks, right after “how much?”. The honest answer: it depends on what’s being built. But every backyard makeover goes through the same stages in the same order, and knowing them helps you plan around the disruption.
Stage 1: Site visit and quote
We walk the yard with you, measure it, and look at the things that change the job: slope, access, drainage, existing structures and soil. You get a written, itemised quote.
Stage 2: Design (for bigger jobs)
For a full backyard, a design stage helps you see the result before anything is dug up. We can prepare a 3D landscape design so you can see levels, decking, walls and planting together and make changes on screen, not on site.
Stage 3: Approvals (only if needed)
Many backyard works are exempt from council approval. Larger decks, pergolas and retaining walls over the exempt limits may need a Complying Development Certificate or a DA. This is the one stage that can add weeks, so we flag it early. Read more: pergola rules · retaining wall rules.
Stage 4: Clearing and demolition
Old turf, dead plants, broken paving, sheds and rubbish come out. On our Hunters Hill job the block went from bare dirt and a skip bin to a finished front yard, and clearing was day one.
Stage 5: Earthworks and drainage
Levelling, cutting into slopes, and installing drainage. It’s the least exciting stage to look at, and the most important. Drainage goes in before walls, paving and turf, because fixing it later means pulling them up.
Stage 6: Structures
Retaining walls, garden boxes, decks, pergolas and fences, the built “bones” of the yard. This is usually the longest stage, and the one most affected by weather and material deliveries.
Stage 7: Hard surfaces
Paving, gravel paths, stepping stones and concrete. These go in after the structures so they meet walls and decks cleanly.
Stage 8: Soft landscaping
Soil, turf, plants, mulch and irrigation. This stage goes last because it’s the easiest to damage during construction.
Stage 9: Clean-up and walk-through
Everything is cleaned up and taken away, and we walk the finished yard with you. See a finished example: complete backyard transformation in Sydney.
What can slow a backyard makeover down?
- Wet weather. Earthworks, concrete and turf can’t go in on saturated ground.
- Rock. Sydney sandstone under the surface can slow digging and footings.
- Access. No machine access means more work by hand.
- Material lead times. Some decking, stone and gate products need ordering in.
- Approvals. Anything that needs a CDC or DA.
- Changes mid-job. Adding scope after work starts means re-planning.
Planning your makeover?
Tell us what you want to build and we’ll give you a realistic timeframe with your quote. See our backyard transformations or call 0475 424 078.
Frequently asked questions
Can I stay home during the work?
Yes. Most clients live at home throughout. Expect noise and restricted backyard access during the clearing and earthworks stages.
Do you do the whole job, or just parts?
We can manage the full makeover or just one stage, like walls and decking, while you do the planting.
What’s the best time of year for a backyard makeover in Sydney?
Any time. Turf and planting establish best in spring and autumn, so plan the build to finish around then if you can.