How to Compare Contractor Quotations
Last updated 2026-10-28
These are indicative planning estimates, not a contractor quotation. Actual costs depend on site conditions, design, location, material specifications, labour rates and local approvals.
Illustrative 3D visualisation, not an architectural design.
The lowest total is rarely the cheapest outcome. Two quotations are only comparable when they describe the same job.
Put them on the same basis
For each quotation, write down:
- Total price and the area it was calculated on
- Scope: structure only, or finishing too?
- Materials: brand and grade for cement, steel, tiles, sanitaryware, switches, paint
- Exclusions: what the contractor will not do or supply
- Payment schedule: milestones, not just dates
- Timeline: start, completion, and any penalty for delay
- Warranty and defect liability terms in writing
- Taxes: is GST included?
Red flags
- A price far below the others with a vague scope
- Requests for a large advance
- “As per actual” for major items with no estimate
- No written agreement, or verbal promises not in the contract
Reading the difference
If quotation A is ₹3 lakh cheaper than B, find out whether A excludes flooring, uses a lower-grade fitting, or leaves out electrical points. Add the missing items to A before judging.
Before you sign
Check references by visiting sites the contractor has actually built, and speak to those owners yourself. Have the agreement reviewed if the amount is large. GharBudget.in does not verify or endorse any contractor.
Use the cost calculator to sanity-check a quotation against your own assumptions, and read about hidden costs.