Turnkey: what it really includes (and what it doesn't) in your contract

"Turnkey" is one of the most attractive promises when building: you receive your house ready to live in and only have to turn the key. But the exact scope varies a lot from one company to another, and that's where misunderstandings begin. Here's what you should check before signing.

What "turnkey" means

In theory, it means a single company handles the entire process: design, permits, construction, and finishes, delivering the house complete. The advantage is having one responsible party instead of coordinating architect, builder, and suppliers separately. To see the concrete scope we offer, check what a turnkey Canadian house includes with Canadian Houses.

What it usually DOES include

A serious turnkey contract typically covers:

• Architectural design and structural engineering.
• Processing of the building permit.
• Foundations, structure, and the complete envelope.
• Interior water, electrical, and sewage installations.
• Finishes according to the agreed standard (flooring, bathrooms, kitchen, paint).

What it often does NOT include

Here are the most frequent surprises. Confirm whether they're inside or outside the price:

• The land and its associated costs (deeds, soil studies).
• Final utility connections from the public network.
• Site works such as perimeter fences, accesses, or paving.
• Major earthworks on sloped lots.
• Fitted kitchen, closets, or landscaping, depending on the standard.

The gray areas of the contract

It's not enough for it to say "turnkey." Ask the contract to detail the finish standard (brands, models, qualities), the deadline with a date, and what happens if there are delays or changes. A generic phrase leaves room for interpretations that later cost money. These gray areas are, in fact, one of the most common mistakes when building a house worth anticipating.

Questions to ask before signing

• Which items are explicitly outside the price?
• Is the building permit included in the value?
• How are changes requested during construction handled?
• What warranty and after-sales service do you offer after delivery?

In short

"Turnkey" is a great option when the scope is clear and in writing. The difference between a good experience and a nightmare isn't in the phrase, but in the contract details. Read, ask, and demand clarity before signing.

Keep reading: the questions to ask before choosing a construction company.