A construction quote is the biggest cheque you'll write for your home. GenuineRate checks the per-sq-ft rate against researched construction costs for your city, and every material and labour line — cement, steel, sand, bricks, masons — against local rates.
Every line is compared with brand price lists and researched rates for your city. You get what's overpriced, what's missing, questions to ask, and a polite message to send.
Common overcharges
Built-up or carpet area?
A per-sq-ft rate gives very different totals depending on which area it's charged on. The quote should say which, and how it's measured.
Cement and steel without brand or grade
“Cement” and “steel” with no brand or grade (such as OPC 53 or Fe 500D) leaves room for cheaper substitutes.
No rates for extra work
Changes happen on every site. Without agreed rates for extra items, you'll pay whatever is asked half-way through.
Big advance, no milestones
Pay in stages tied to work done — foundation, plinth, each slab, brickwork, plaster — not a large advance.
More steel than the design needs
Ask for the bar bending schedule from the structural drawings and compare it with the steel quoted.
A mid-finish house typically costs ₹1,800–₹2,800 per sq ft built-up, all-in. Basic finish is about ₹1,400–₹1,800 per sq ft built-up and premium about ₹2,800–₹4,500 per sq ft built-up. It varies a lot by city — see the cost guide for yours.
What's a fair labour-only contract rate?
A civil labour contract for the grey structure typically costs ₹300–₹500 per sq ft built-up, with you buying the materials.
What do masons and helpers charge per day?
A mason (mistri) typically charges ₹750–₹1,050 per day and a helper ₹450–₹750 per day.
Ready to check your builder's quote?
Upload a photo or PDF, or type the lines in. Results in about a minute — free during early access.