Q&A for Construction

Building Your Dream in Bangalore? Your Top New Construction Questions, Answered!

Building a home or a commercial space in a bustling city like Bangalore is an exciting journey. It’s the process of turning a vision on paper into a tangible, physical structure. But let's be honest—it can also feel overwhelming. From navigating approvals to choosing the right materials, the questions can pile up quickly.

At Shetkar Builders LLP, we believe a well-informed client is a happy client. That's why we've compiled this Q&A guide to address the most common doubts and concerns you might have about new construction in Namma Bengaluru.

Let's dive in!

Section 1: Getting Started – The Big Picture

Q1: I have a plot of land. What is the very first step to start construction?

A: Congratulations on owning a piece of Bangalore! The very first step isn't digging the foundation, but getting your paperwork and design in order.

1. Verify Your Documents: Ensure you have a clear title deed, the latest tax-paid receipt, and the Khata certificate for your property. A clear "A-Khata" is ideal for a smooth approval process.

2. Hire an Architect: Your second step is to find a qualified architect. They will translate your vision into a functional design that complies with Bangalore's building bye-laws. This design is crucial for getting plan sanction.

Q2: How much does it cost to build a house in Bangalore? What's a realistic budget?

A: This is the million-dollar question! The cost varies widely based on three main factors: Structure, Finishes, and Fixtures.

As of 2023-2024, a rough estimate for residential construction in Bangalore is:

• Basic Quality: ₹1,700 - ₹1,900 per square foot.

• Mid-Range Quality: ₹2,000 - ₹2,300 per square foot.

• Premium/Luxury Quality: ₹2,400+ per square foot.

So, for a 2,000 sq. ft. house, you can expect a budget between ₹34 lakhs and ₹48+ lakhs. This typically includes the core structure and basic finishes but may not include compound walls, landscaping, high-end interiors, or government fees. Always ask for a detailed, itemized quote.

Q3: How long will it take to build my house?

A: Patience is key! For a standard G+1 or G+2 residential building (approx. 2000-3000 sq. ft.), the timeline is generally:

• Approvals & Sanctions: 2-4 months (can vary).

• Construction: 8-12 months.

• Interiors & Finishing: 2-3 months.

So, a realistic timeline from start to finish is around 12 to 18 months, assuming no major delays.

Section 2: The Legal Labyrinth – Approvals & Permissions

Q4: What are all these approvals I hear about? BBMP, BDA, BESCOM?

A: Welcome to the administrative side of construction! These are the key government bodies you'll interact with:

• BBMP (Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike): This is the city's municipal corporation. They are the primary authority for approving your Building Plan Sanction.

• BDA (Bangalore Development Authority): If your plot is in a BDA-developed layout, you might need their initial approvals or NOCs (No Objection Certificates).

• BESCOM (Bangalore Electricity Supply Company Ltd.): You'll need their approval for temporary and permanent power connections.

• BWSSB (Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board): They are responsible for providing water and sanitary connections to your building.

Navigating this can be complex, which is why an experienced builder is invaluable.

Q5: Do I really need a plan sanction? What happens if I don't get one?

A: Yes, absolutely! Building without a sanctioned plan is a major risk. The BBMP can issue a stop-work notice, impose heavy penalties, or even order the demolition of the illegal structure. Furthermore, you won't be able to get a legal electricity or water connection, and selling the property in the future will be nearly impossible.

Section 3: Assembling Your Dream Team – Architect vs. Contractor

Q6: What's the difference between an architect and a contractor? Who do I hire first?

A: This is a crucial distinction.

• The Architect is the designer. They create the blueprint, floor plans, and elevations based on your needs and legal norms. You hire the architect first.

• The Contractor is the builder. They take the architect's plans and execute the construction on-site. They manage labour, source materials, and oversee the day-to-day building process.

Firms like Shetkar Builders LLP offer a "Design & Build" or "Turnkey" solution, where we handle both architecture and construction under one roof. This simplifies coordination for the client and ensures a seamless transition from paper to reality.

Q7: How do I choose a good, reliable contractor in Bangalore?

A: Look for these key signs:

• Experience & Portfolio: Ask to see their previous projects. Visit a completed site and an ongoing site if possible.

• Transparency: A good contractor will provide a detailed, transparent quote (Bill of Quantities or BOQ) and a clear payment schedule.

• Legal Compliance: Ensure they are a registered company with GST registration, like Shetkar Builders LLP.

• Communication: Choose someone you can communicate with easily and who provides regular updates.

• References: Ask for and speak to their previous clients.

Section 4: The Nuts and Bolts – The Construction Process

Q8: Red bricks or solid concrete blocks? What's better for Bangalore's climate?

A: Both are excellent choices with distinct advantages:

• Red Bricks: They offer superior thermal insulation, keeping homes cooler. However, they are generally more expensive and require more plastering.

• Solid Concrete Blocks: They are more cost-effective, uniform in size (leading to faster construction), and have high structural strength. They are the more common choice in modern Bangalore construction.

Your choice depends on your budget and priorities. We can help you weigh the pros and cons for your specific project.

Q9: How can I ensure the quality of materials and workmanship during construction?

A: Stay involved!

• Regular Site Visits: We encourage our clients at Shetkar Builders LLP to visit the site regularly.

• Ask Questions: We maintain an open line of communication, so you can always ask our site supervisor about the materials being used.

• Agree on Brands: We finalize all brands for key items like cement, steel, pipes, and electrical wires in the contract for complete transparency.

Q10: Is Rainwater Harvesting (RWH) and Solar installation mandatory in Bangalore?

A: Yes.

• Rainwater Harvesting (RWH): It is mandatory for all new buildings constructed on sites measuring 60x40 feet and above.

• Solar Water Heaters: It is also mandatory for new residential buildings built on sites measuring 600 sq. ft. and above to have a solar water heating system.

We ensure all our projects are 100% compliant with these eco-friendly regulations.

The Final Stretch: Handover and Beyond

Q11: The building is finished! What's next? What is an Occupancy Certificate (OC)?

A: Once construction is complete, you need two final, crucial documents from the BBMP:

1. Completion Certificate (CC): Certifies that the building was constructed as per the sanctioned plan.

2. Occupancy Certificate (OC): The final clearance declaring the building is fit for occupation. You need the OC to get permanent utility connections and for the property to be legally recognized.

We assist all our clients in navigating the paperwork to secure these essential certificates.

Q12: Do you offer a warranty on the construction?

A: Absolutely. Shetkar Builders LLP stands by the quality of its work. We offer a structural warranty against major structural defects and a defect liability period (usually 12 months) for any issues related to waterproofing, plumbing, or electrical work. These terms are clearly defined in our contract to give you complete peace of mind.

Ready to Lay the Foundation?

Building your own space in Bangalore is a significant milestone. While the process has its complexities, having the right knowledge and the right team by your side makes all the difference. The experts at Shetkar Builders LLP are here to guide you every step of the way, from the initial blueprint to the final handover.

Have more questions? Or are you ready to take the first step?

Call us today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let's build your dream in Bangalore, together.

Contact Shetkar Builders LLP: 8105516262