Most construction delays and cost overruns trace back to decisions that were left open before work began. This checklist covers what should be locked down before the first brick is laid.
1. Land and soil clarity
Confirm land title, boundary demarcation, and get a soil test done. This determines your foundation type and cost, and it's far cheaper to know this upfront than mid-construction.
2. Approvals in hand
Building plan approval from the local municipal authority should be sorted before construction starts — starting without it risks demolition orders or fines later.
3. A finalised floor plan
Changing the layout after the foundation is poured is one of the costliest mistakes homeowners make. Spend the extra week finalising room sizes and placements before work begins, not after.
4. A written quotation with a BOQ
A one-line 'per sq. ft.' quote leaves too much open to interpretation. Insist on a Bill of Quantities that lists material grades and quantities so there's no ambiguity later.
5. A realistic timeline in writing
Get your contractor to commit to a stage-wise timeline — foundation, structure, roofing, finishing — with expected dates. It won't be perfect, but it gives you a way to track progress and flag delays early.