wants a lighting plan and outlet locations , but there is no hvac installed

What does HVAC have to do with lighting and outlets?

They won’t get in each others way behind the walls and in ceiling and floors?

You don't trust your contractor?

This is an it depends type of question. I'd suggest talking to your contractor if you have concerns.

There is no set order, kind of like the chicken and the egg. It usually ends up whoever gets there last has to work around the other two. The general contractor may have a preference.

Generally an electrical plan should be produced in the design phase so the costs to install everything can be included as part of a fixed price contract. The plan should be revisited at a walk-through after framing to verify the location of switches and any special receptacles that might need to be added for TVs, security system, etc. that were not shown on the original electrical plan.

Once the framing is completed the plumber would be first, then HVAC , then the electrician. We normally do walk through with our clients 1 - 1 1/2 weeks before the electrician starts to layout plugs, switches, lighting, etc..

Yep, it's up to the general contractor to decide which trade is called to the job site in what order.

Electrical and lighting plans are commonly prepared by whomever designed the house.

Plumbing is generally described in notes for fixture selection and finishes. The floor plan shows locations.

HVAC is often described using system notes, with the detailed system selection and locations left to the mechanical sub-contractor.

An experienced designer will always show a mechanical room or space for major system components.

> My contractor wants a lighting plan and outlet locations , but there is no hvac installed yet.

Many local jurisdiction require electrical plans to be included, but not HVAC or plumbing. Some require only NG portion of plumbing and capacity table part of MEP NG. One can run a HVAC trunk lines but to really install the HVAC equipment you need an electrical drop. I also understand contractors desire to have electrical done and the meter installed vs temp power.

In many cases GC/Builder has to juggle scheduler. So some subs may be busy this week, etc. Unless you want to pay interest for another week or two what your contractor is telling you.

If you trust your contractor, follow what he is asking. As far as ideal an ideal order HVAC, plumbing, electrical.

A Discussion

If you have the project underway and you don't have lighting & outlet plans, its costing everybody time and money including you.

Plumbing stubbed through floor already? No electrical there unless you pay the plumber to move, etc.

Electricians & plumbers are expensive, so I prefer they place items 1x & know my clients prefer not to pay the bill to change/move stuff.

This is what plans are all about.