On a new build, the foundation and the framing are tied closely together. The framing is only as accurate as the foundation it sits on, and the foundation is only useful if the framers can build from it without rework. Having both in one scope removes a handoff, which is why builders and developers often ask who covers what.
The Foundation Side
Foundation work is everything that gets the building from bare ground to a level, square base for the walls. Typical items are layout from the survey, excavation coordination, forming and placing footings, forming foundation walls or a slab, anchor and hold-down placement, and the work needed before the framing starts. Which of those a given contract includes, and which stay with the excavator, the concrete supplier or the engineer, should be written into the scope. Our foundation contracting service page lists what we typically cover, and foundation types in Victoria explains the common options.
The Framing Side
Framing is the structure above the foundation: floors, walls, roof structure, sheathing and the openings for windows and doors. It can be built on site, or the walls can be built as prefab panels in a shop and set on site. See what framing services cover and how prefab wall systems work for the two approaches.
Where the Handoff Happens
The handoff from foundation to framing is where most avoidable delays start. What matters is that the as-built foundation dimensions are checked before anything is built to them, and that anchors, hold-downs and any sill details match the framing drawings. When the same company does both, that check happens inside one scope. When two companies are involved, it needs a named owner on each side. Our post on coordinating foundation and prefab panel delivery covers the check in more detail.
What Usually Stays With Other Trades
- ✓Design, permit drawings and engineering, which come from your design team and engineer
- ✓Excavation, shoring and utilities, unless they are written into the foundation scope
- ✓Rough-in electrical, plumbing and mechanical, which are done by licensed trades. See coordinating rough-ins with panelized walls
- ✓Roofing, windows and doors supply, insulation and finishes, unless agreed otherwise
To see how foundation and framing fit into the full build sequence, use a phase planner such as the build timeline planner from ACAP LTD, or our own build timeline estimator.
How to Ask for a Quote
Send the permit set, the site address and the date you need the foundation or walls. For panelized walls, the panel order checklist lists exactly what we need. For a foundation or site-built framing quote, use the quote page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does one company really cover both foundation and framing?
It can. Whether it does on your project depends on the scope written into the contract. Ask for both scopes in writing so it is clear who owns each item.
Who verifies the foundation before framing starts?
Someone must, before walls are built to it. Name the person in the scope, whether that is the foundation crew, the framers or your builder.
Do you handle excavation and engineering?
Those are scoped per project. Ask when you request a quote and we will state in writing what is included and what you supply.
Can you build the walls as prefab panels?
Yes. Panels are built to your plans in our Greater Victoria shop. See the order page to send plans for a written quote.
Have plans for a foundation, framing or panelized walls? Send them over and we will come back with a written quote.
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