Starting the construction of a house is a big decision in Pakistan. Whether you are building your own ghar or supervising a project for someone else, it’s important to understand all the necessary steps before beginning. Many people make the mistake of rushing into construction without proper planning. This blog will guide you through all the zaroori (essential) things to know before starting home construction. We’ll talk about design, planning, budgeting, building contractors, approvals, materials, labour, and even warehouse construction when needed during large-scale builds. All of this will be shared in simple Urdu-style English so everyone can understand easily.

1. Planning the Home Construction

Before starting the taameer (construction), proper planning is very important. You should have a clear idea of what you want in your house. Ask yourself:

• How many rooms do you need?

• Should the kitchen be open or separate?

• Will there be one or more floors?

• Is there enough parking space?

Sketch a rough design and sit with an architect or building contractor to refine your ideas.

2. Hire Reliable Building Contractors

One of the most important decisions is choosing experienced and trustworthy building contractors. They are the people who will manage the entire construction process from start to finish. They will arrange labour, manage timelines, and follow your house map.

Make sure you:

• Check the contractor’s previous work.

• Get multiple quotes and compare them.

• Discuss the time and payment schedule clearly.

• Ensure they follow (government) rules.

A good building contractor helps avoid delays, expenses, and substandard work.

3. Get Architectural and Structural Design

Architectural design includes room layout, ventilation,  (natural light), and aesthetics. Structural design ensures your house is safe and strong, especially in (earthquake)-prone areas like Islamabad, Lahore, and northern Pakistan.

An engineer should check:

• Foundation depth based on soil.

• Quality of columns and beams.

• Proper support for roofs and lintels.

Never start without proper drawings. These are needed for approvals too.

4. Understand the Approval Process

Before starting construction, get approval from your local development authority like CDA (Islamabad), LDA (Lahore), or KDA (Karachi). These authorities check:

• Building plan

• Setbacks (empty space from walls)

• Height rules

• Covered area ratio

If you start without approval, you may face (penalty), demolition, or legal notice. Ask your architect or building contractor to handle the file work.

5. Create a Practical Budget Plan

Make a full estimate before you break ground. Budgeting helps avoid sudden shortages of (money) midway. Break down your budget into:

• Foundation and grey structure

• Electrical and plumbing

• Finishing (tiles, paint, lights)

• Boundary wall and main gate

Always keep 10-15% extra as a buffer for unexpected costs. Prices of cement, steel, and change often in Pakistan.

6. Choose the Right Material

Material selection affects both quality and cost. Don’t always go for the cheapest option. Local Pakistani terms to remember:

• Bricks : Must be 1st-class quality.

• Cement: Use reliable brands with Pakistan Standards.

•  (steel rods): Needed for roof and structure strength.

• Sand and crush : Should be clean and sifted.

Also, use proper waterproofing material for bathrooms and roof to avoid future leaks.

7. Warehouse Construction for Material Storage

If you’re building a large house or farmhouse, consider warehouse construction for storing materials. In cities like Lahore or Faisalabad, it’s common to use temporary storage to keep maal safe from theft and rain. Small on-site or rented warehouses help manage:

• Cement bags (moisture sensitive)

• bundles

• Tiles and paint drums

• Electrical and sanitary fittings

This step improves site management and avoids wastage or damage.

8. Focus on Labour and Supervision

Skilled labour plays a huge role in quality. You need:

• Mason  for brickwork

• Plumber for water and gas pipes

• Electrician for wiring

• Painter and tile fixer for finishing

Even if your building contractor arranges labour, regular supervision is (essential). Visit the site daily or appoint someone trusted.

9. Utilities and Services Planning

Plan for water, electricity, gas, and sewage early. Contact:

• WAPDA for electricity meter

• SNGPL for gas connection

• WASA or local system for drainage

If you are in a private housing society, they will have their own service connections and rules. Place conduits, pipelines, and wiring carefully during grey structure work to avoid rework.

10. Grey Structure vs Finishing Stage

Understand the two main stages of home construction:

• Grey Structure: Foundation, walls, roof, plaster, basic plumbing and electric conduits

• Finishing: Tiles, false ceiling, paint, sanitary fittings, doors/windows

Most budget is spent during finishing. Choose local Pakistani brands that are durable. Don’t overspend on shashka items like expensive lights or imported tiles unless the budget allows.

11. Legal Documents and Safety

Keep all documents safe like:

• Registry and inteqal of plot

• Building plan approval copy

• Contractor agreement

• Receipts of major purchases

Also ensure site safety. Use safety ropes for workers on roofs, store materials properly, and follow construction safety guidelines.

12. Timeframe and Season

Choose the season wisely. Avoid rainy months like July-August, especially for roof work. Cold weather delays plaster and paint work. A normal 5-marla house takes 6–8 months if work goes smoothly. Set a clear schedule with your building contractor from the start.

13. Top Questions People Ask Before Building a Home

Let’s answer some common queries:

Q: How much cost per square foot for construction in Pakistan?
A: It depends on city, materials, and labour. On average, it ranges from PKR 2,500 to PKR 5,000 per sq. ft. for a complete house.

Q: What are the hidden costs?
A: Costs of approvals, extra cement or steel, labour delays, underground water tank, generator space, and land filling if plot is uneven.

Q: Can I build a house without an architect?
A: It’s possible but highly risky. You may break legal rules or face structural issues later. Always consult professionals.

Final Thoughts

Home construction in Pakistan is not just about —it’s about smart planning, good supervision, and using local knowledge. By understanding the process and working with reliable building contractors, you can save money, avoid stress, and get a safe and comfortable house. Also, consider warehouse construction if your site has limited space or you’re building at a larger scale.

Take your time, plan every step, and make informed decisions. This will make your ghar ka khwab come true the right way.