How to use the construction cost calculator
- 1 Enter the plot size in marla.
- 2 Enter the number of floors and the covered area percentage.
- 3 Enter the grey structure rate per sq ft from your contractor.
- 4 Enter the finishing rate and read the total cost.
Worked example
A 10 marla house with two floors and 80% covered area, using example rates of Rs 4,000 for grey structure and Rs 3,000 for finishing. Covered area is 3,600 sq ft. Grey structure costs Rs 14.4 million and finishing Rs 10.8 million, a total of about Rs 25.2 million, or Rs 7,000 per sq ft. Use your contractor's own rates for a real budget.
Budgeting a house properly
- Get approvals first: building plans need approval from the development authority or society before work starts.
- Grey structure covers foundations, walls, slabs, plaster and basic plumbing and wiring; finishing covers tiles, woodwork, paint, fittings and kitchens.
- Contingency: keep about 10% extra for price rises and changes; steel and cement prices can move sharply in a year.
- Labour-only contracts let you control material quality but need more of your time.
Check materials with the Brick Calculator, Concrete Calculator and Steel Calculator. Need finance? See the Home Loan Calculator.
Features
Grey and finishing
Separate costs for structure and finishing.
Your local rates
Use the rates your contractor quotes, which vary by city and quality.
Material and labour
A typical 70:30 split.
When to use it
Planning a new house
Estimate the budget before you start. Count bricks with the Brick Calculator.
Comparing contractors
Check quotes against the covered area. Work out concrete with the Concrete Calculator.
Adding a floor
Estimate the cost of an extra storey. Weigh steel with the Steel Calculator.
Loan planning
Work out how much financing you need. Finance it with the Home Loan Calculator.
Related Property and Land tasks
Frequently asked questions
What is grey structure?
The basic building: foundations, columns, beams, slabs, brick walls, plaster, electrical and plumbing pipes, without tiles, paint, doors and fittings.
What is finishing?
Tiles, paint, doors, windows, wardrobes, kitchen, bathroom fittings, electrical fittings and woodwork.
What do construction rates depend on?
City, material prices, quality of finishing, design and whether you hire a contractor for labour only or labour with material.
How much covered area can I build?
Housing society bylaws set limits on covered area and setbacks, often around 70% to 80% of the plot on each floor.
How do I get current rates?
Ask several contractors for per square foot quotes for grey structure and finishing in your city.
Does this include the plot price?
No. It covers construction only, not land, approvals or utility connections.
What other costs should I plan for?
Map approval fees, utility connections, boundary walls, landscaping and a contingency of about 10%.
Is a marla 225 or 272 sq ft?
Most housing societies use 225 sq ft. Revenue records use 272.25 sq ft. This calculator uses 225.
How long does it take to build a house?
A 10 marla double-storey house usually takes 8 to 14 months, depending on design, funds and contractor.
Labour-only or with material?
Labour-only contracts let you buy material yourself and control quality; contracts with material are simpler but need close checking.
How much does map approval cost?
Fees depend on the development authority or society and the covered area.
Should I keep a contingency fund?
Yes. Keep about ten percent extra for price rises, design changes and unexpected work, because material prices in Pakistan can change quickly during a long build.
Results are estimates based on the official rates linked above. Confirm important figures with the issuing authority or a qualified adviser before you act on them.
Built and reviewed by Hamza Farooq, founder and lead developer
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