Grey Structure Specialists DHA, Bahria & All Lahore
Grey Structure Construction in Lahore
Complete Guide & Rates 2026
Pakistan's most comprehensive grey structure guide. Elegant Properties builds grey structures across DHA Phase 1–9, Bahria Town, Gulberg, and all Lahore housing societies at Rs. 3,400–3,600/sqft using A-grade verified materials. 5 Marla, 10 Marla, 1 Kanal, 2 Kanal free BOQ estimate in 24 hours.
Rs. 3,400–3,600/sqft
A-Grade Materials Only
Free BOQ Estimate
5-Year Structural Warranty
DHA All Phases Certified
3,400
Rs/sqft Rate
87+
Projects Done
A-Grade
Materials Only
5 Year
Warranty
4.9★
Google Rating
Grey Structure Definition
What is Grey Structure? Complete Definition & Explanation
Grey structure also written as gray structure or called khaka in Urdu is the complete structural framework of a building before any finishing or interior work begins. It is the skeleton of your house: everything from the underground foundation to the final roof slab, built entirely in raw concrete, brick, and steel.
The term "grey" comes from the colour of exposed concrete and raw brickwork at this stage before any plaster, paint, or finishing is applied. When you see a building under construction with bare grey walls, exposed columns, and raw concrete slabs, that is a grey structure in progress.
Grey structure is the most critical phase of house construction. Every structural decision foundation depth, column sizing, beam dimensions, slab thickness is made at this stage and cannot be changed later without demolition. The quality of your grey structure determines whether your house stands strong for 50+ years or develops cracks and structural problems within a decade.
In Pakistan and particularly in Lahore's housing societies like DHA and Bahria Town, grey structure is also the phase that requires society approval. Before starting grey structure, you must submit your architectural and structural drawings to DHA or Bahria Town for approval and obtain a commencement NOC. Elegant Properties handles all approval paperwork as part of our grey structure service.
The Structural Shell
Grey structure is the complete load-bearing framework foundation, columns, beams, walls, and slabs. Every structural element is built at this stage.
Cannot Be Changed Later
Structural decisions made in grey structure are permanent. A wrong column position or under-sized beam cannot be fixed without demolishing and rebuilding extremely expensive.
Quality Determines Lifespan
A grey structure built with A-grade materials lasts 50+ years with zero structural issues. B-grade or C-grade materials cause cracking, water seepage, and spalling within 5–10 years.
Society Approval Required
In DHA, Bahria Town, and LDA areas grey structure cannot start without approved drawings and a commencement NOC from the relevant authority.
Grey Structure Components
What is Included in Grey Structure Complete Component List
This is the definitive list of what is and is not part of grey structure construction in Pakistan. Every item is either included or excluded there is no middle ground. Always confirm your contractor's exact scope in writing before signing any contract.
#
Component
Description
✓
Site Layout & Marking
Setting out the plot boundaries and column grid as per approved architectural and structural drawings. Ensures all walls and columns are in the correct positions before excavation.
✓
Excavation
Digging to foundation depth as per structural design. Standard depth: 4–6 feet for strip foundations. Deeper for raft or pile foundations based on soil test results.
✓
PCC (Plain Cement Concrete) Bedding
Lean concrete layer (typically 3–4 inches) laid at the bottom of excavation to create a clean, level surface for the reinforced foundation. Prevents soil contamination of foundation concrete.
✓
RCC Foundation (Strip/Raft)
Reinforced concrete foundation as per structural engineer's design. For standard soil: strip foundation below each column line. For weak soil: raft (plinth) foundation across entire plot. Steel reinforcement and concrete casting included.
✓
DPC Damp Proof Course
Critical waterproofing layer applied at plinth level (just above ground) to prevent groundwater and moisture from rising into walls through capillary action. Uses bituminous paint or DPC membrane. Without DPC, walls develop salt efflorescence and damp patches.
✓
Plinth Filling & PCC Floor
Filling inside the foundation perimeter with compacted soil and rammed earth, followed by PCC floor at plinth level. Creates the flat surface for ground floor construction.
✓
RCC Columns (All Floors)
The vertical structural members that carry all building loads down to the foundation. Cast in-situ with steel reinforcement cage inside formwork. Column sizes as per structural engineer's design typically 9"×9" to 12"×12" for residential. Includes all ground and first floor columns.
✓
Brickwork Ground Floor
All external and internal walls of ground floor in A-grade kiln bricks. Standard wall thickness: 9 inches (double brick) for external walls, 4.5 inches (single brick) for internal partition walls. Includes all arch brickwork, window sills, and door frames in brickwork.
✓
Lintel Beams (All Openings)
RCC lintels above all door and window openings in ground floor walls. Prevents wall cracking above openings due to structural loads. Cast in-situ or precast concrete, as per design.
✓
RCC Ring Beam (Sill Level)
Continuous RCC beam at window sill level tying all columns together. Provides lateral stability to the structure and prevents differential settlement-induced cracking.
✓
First Floor Roof Slab (RCC)
Reinforced concrete slab spanning between RCC beams, forming the first floor ceiling/ground for the floor above. Includes all RCC beams, slab reinforcement, formwork, concrete casting, and 28-day curing. Slab thickness: 5–6 inches standard.
✓
First Floor Brickwork & Columns
Repeat of ground floor brickwork and column casting for the first floor. Same specifications as ground floor. Includes all first floor external walls, internal walls, and columns.
✓
Second Floor Roof Slab (Top Slab)
The final roof slab over the first floor. Same construction as first floor slab. For double-storey houses, this is the last major structural element. Mumty (water tank room) slab included if specified.
✓
Staircase RCC Structure
Complete reinforced concrete staircase structure including stair slabs, treads, risers, and landing slabs. Both ground to first and first to second floor staircases included in double storey houses.
✓
Boundary Wall
Perimeter boundary wall along all plot boundaries as per society bylaws. Standard height: 6 feet for residential (DHA/Bahria). Includes RCC columns in boundary wall and coping at top. Adjacent neighbor's side: as per society rules.
✓
Gate Frame (Steel)
Main entrance gate frame in mild steel two gate pillars and horizontal frame bar embedded in boundary wall columns. Ready for gate leaf installation in finishing stage.
✓
Embedded Electrical Conduits
PVC conduit pipes laid inside walls and slabs during construction for future electrical wiring. Conduits run from main distribution board location to all room outlets, switch points, and light points. Wiring itself is NOT included only the conduit routes.
✓
Embedded Plumbing Routes
Underground UPVC drain pipes (sewage lines) laid before floor closure. Water supply pipe routes through walls as per plumbing layout drawing. Includes underground sewage network to main manhole. Plumbing fixtures (taps, commodes) NOT included.
✗
Internal & External Plaster
Cement-sand plaster on all walls NOT included in grey structure. Plaster is the first finishing item applied after grey structure completion. Adds Rs. 180–250/sqft to cost.
✗
Flooring & Wall Tiles
All floor tiles, wall tiles, marble, granite, or any floor finish NOT included. Part of finishing stage after plaster.
✗
Doors & Door Frames
All interior and exterior doors with frames NOT included. Only the brickwork opening and lintel beam for door positions is included in grey structure.
✗
Windows & Grills
All window frames, glass, and security grills NOT included. Only the brickwork opening and lintel for window positions is included.
✗
Electrical Wiring & Fittings
Wires, switches, sockets, circuit breakers, MCBs, fans, lights NOT included. Only the embedded conduit routes are included in grey structure.
✗
Plumbing Fixtures
Taps, commodes, wash basins, showers, geysers, water pumps NOT included. Only underground pipe routes are included.
✗
Kitchen & Wardrobes
Kitchen cabinets, countertops, wardrobes, cupboards NOT included. All woodwork and cabinetry is part of finishing stage.
✗
Paint
Interior and exterior paint NOT included. Applied after plaster is complete and cured.
Grey Structure Rates 2026
Grey Structure Rate Per Sqft in Lahore 2026 Elegant Properties
Our grey structure rate is Rs. 3,400–3,600 per sqft for A-grade premium construction. This rate covers all labour and materials listed in the inclusions above. Rates are fixed per BOQ no mid-project price increases.
Rate Breakdown What Rs. 3,400/sqft Covers
Market Rate Tiers Lahore 2026
| Tier | Rate/sqft | Material Grade |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | Rs. 2,200–2,500 | C-grade |
| Standard | Rs. 2,500–2,875 | B-grade |
| Elegant Properties | Rs. 3,400–3,600 | A-grade ✓ |
| High-End | Rs. 3,600–5,000 | A+ Premium |
| Luxury | Rs. 5,000–8,000 | Import Grade |
Warning: A house built at Rs. 2,650/sqft with B-grade materials will need Rs. 8–20 Lakh repairs within 5–8 years. The "saving" of Rs. 750/sqft becomes a massive long-term loss.
Cost by Plot Size 2026
Grey Structure Cost Calculator 5 Marla to 2 Kanal Lahore 2026
Use this table to estimate your grey structure cost. All figures based on Elegant Properties' rate of Rs. 3,400–3,600/sqft. Covered area varies based on single/double storey and basement requirement.
5 Marla
Plot: 25×45 ft = 1,125 sqft
Rs. 37–47 L
Grey Structure (double storey ~1,100–1,300 sqft)
3–4 months
8 Marla
Plot: 30×60 ft = 1,800 sqft
Rs. 54–68 L
Grey Structure (double storey ~1,600–1,900 sqft)
3.5–4.5 months
10 Marla
Plot: 35×65 ft = 2,250 sqft
Rs. 82L–1.05 Cr
Grey Structure (double storey ~2,400–2,800 sqft)
4–5 months
1 Kanal
Plot: 50×90 ft = 4,500 sqft
Rs. 1.36–1.87 Cr
Grey Structure (double storey ~4,000–5,200 sqft)
5–7 months
| Plot Size | Single Storey Cost | Double Storey Cost | With Basement (+) | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 Marla | Rs. 20–26 Lakh | Rs. 37–47 Lakh | +Rs. 18–25 Lakh | 3–4 months |
| 8 Marla | Rs. 29–38 Lakh | Rs. 54–68 Lakh | +Rs. 25–35 Lakh | 3.5–4.5 months |
| 10 Marla | Rs. 45–58 Lakh | Rs. 82L–1.05 Cr | +Rs. 32–45 Lakh | 4–5 months |
| 1 Kanal | Rs. 75 L–1 Cr | Rs. 1.36–1.87 Cr | +Rs. 55–80 Lakh | 5–7 months |
| 2 Kanal | Rs. 1.4–1.9 Cr | Rs. 2.55–3.42 Cr | +Rs. 1–1.4 Cr | 7–10 months |
Covered Area vs Plot Area: Grey structure cost is calculated on covered area (the actual built sqft) NOT the plot size. A double-storey 10 Marla house has ~2,400–2,800 sqft covered area on a 2,250 sqft plot because you build two floors. Always confirm covered area from your architectural drawings before comparing quotes.
Material Guide
Grey Structure Materials Quantities & Specifications for Each House Size
Knowing the required material quantities helps you verify your contractor's procurement and prevent material theft on site. These are Elegant Properties' standard specifications for A-grade grey structure.
5 Marla House Material Quantities
| Material | Quantity | Grade/Spec | Approx. Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kiln Bricks (Awwal) | ~42,000 bricks | Class A, fully fired | Rs. 7.5–8.5 Lakh |
| Steel Bars | ~2.5–3 tons | Grade 60, 3/8" to 3/4" | Rs. 7–9.3 Lakh |
| Cement Bags | ~280 bags | OPC 43/53, Pakcem/Lucky | Rs. 3.5–3.9 Lakh |
| Margalla Crush | ~1,500 CFT | 3/4" crushed stone | Rs. 2.2–2.5 Lakh |
| Fine Sand | ~2,200 CFT | Badarpur/clean river sand | Rs. 1.2–1.5 Lakh |
| Labour (All) | Lump sum | Skilled + unskilled | Rs. 8–10 Lakh |
10 Marla House Material Quantities
| Material | Quantity | Grade/Spec | Approx. Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kiln Bricks (Awwal) | ~88,000–95,000 bricks | Class A, fully fired | Rs. 15.8–19 Lakh |
| Steel Bars | ~5.5–7 tons | Grade 60, 3/8" to 3/4" | Rs. 15–21 Lakh |
| Cement Bags | ~550–600 bags | OPC 43/53, branded | Rs. 6.9–8.3 Lakh |
| Margalla Crush | ~3,200 CFT | 3/4" crushed stone | Rs. 4.6–5.3 Lakh |
| Fine Sand | ~4,800 CFT | Badarpur/clean river sand | Rs. 2.6–3.4 Lakh |
| Labour (All) | Lump sum | Skilled + unskilled | Rs. 16–23 Lakh |
1 Kanal House Material Quantities
| Material | Quantity | Grade/Spec | Approx. Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kiln Bricks (Awwal) | ~155,000–180,000 bricks | Class A, fully fired | Rs. 28–36 Lakh |
| Steel Bars | ~10–14 tons | Grade 60, 3/8" to 3/4" | Rs. 28–43 Lakh |
| Cement Bags | ~950–1,100 bags | OPC 43/53, branded | Rs. 11.9–15.2 Lakh |
| Margalla Crush | ~6,000 CFT | 3/4" crushed stone | Rs. 8.7–9.9 Lakh |
| Fine Sand | ~9,000 CFT | Badarpur/clean river sand | Rs. 5–6.3 Lakh |
| Labour (All) | Lump sum | Skilled + unskilled | Rs. 28–35 Lakh |
Material Specifications
A-Grade vs B-Grade Materials Why Material Grade Matters
The single biggest determinant of grey structure quality and longevity is material grade. Here is exactly what A-grade means at Elegant Properties versus what budget contractors use:
Steel Reinforcement (Sarya)
Elegant (A-Grade): Grade 60 (Fe 415) deformed bars, ASTM/BS compliant. Mill certificate verified. 3/8", 1/2", 5/8", 3/4" diameter as per structural drawings.
Budget (B-Grade): Locally rolled ungraded mild steel. No mill certificate. Often below Grade 40 tensile strength. Bends and stretches under seismic load.
Budget (B-Grade): Locally rolled ungraded mild steel. No mill certificate. Often below Grade 40 tensile strength. Bends and stretches under seismic load.
Cement
Elegant (A-Grade): Branded OPC 43/53 from Pakcem, Lucky, Bestway, or DG Khan. Verified by batch number. Fresh bags never more than 3 months old.
Budget (B-Grade): Loose unbranded cement, mixed brands, or over-aged bags. Lumpy cement indicates moisture absorption and reduced strength.
Budget (B-Grade): Loose unbranded cement, mixed brands, or over-aged bags. Lumpy cement indicates moisture absorption and reduced strength.
Kiln Bricks (Eent)
Elegant (A-Grade): Awwal (Class A) fully fired kiln bricks. Uniform colour, sharp corners, metallic ring when struck, absorbs minimal water. Compressive strength: 70+ kg/cm².
Budget (B-Grade): Thana (under-fired) or rejected bricks. Crumbles when scratched, absorbs water, causes salt staining and wall dampness within years.
Budget (B-Grade): Thana (under-fired) or rejected bricks. Crumbles when scratched, absorbs water, causes salt staining and wall dampness within years.
Crush (Coarse Aggregate)
Elegant (A-Grade): Margalla quarry crushed stone, 3/4" size, angular shape, clean and free of dust and clay. Produces high-strength concrete with excellent bond.
Budget (B-Grade): Local bajri (river gravel) rounded, smooth surface, poor bond with cement paste. Produces weak concrete that cracks under load.
Budget (B-Grade): Local bajri (river gravel) rounded, smooth surface, poor bond with cement paste. Produces weak concrete that cracks under load.
Fine Sand
Elegant (A-Grade): Badarpur or clean river sand, graded, washed, free of clay and organic matter. FM (Fineness Modulus) 2.3–3.1. Site-tested before use.
Budget (B-Grade): Unwashed sand with clay and silt content, which weakens mortar and concrete, reduces bond, and causes surface cracking.
Budget (B-Grade): Unwashed sand with clay and silt content, which weakens mortar and concrete, reduces bond, and causes surface cracking.
Curing Water
Elegant (A-Grade): Continuous water curing for minimum 28 days after casting all slabs and columns. Curing compounds on exposed surfaces. Concrete strength development monitored.
Budget (B-Grade): 3–7 days water curing then abandoned. Premature drying causes micro-cracks, reduces strength by 30–40% vs properly cured concrete.
Budget (B-Grade): 3–7 days water curing then abandoned. Premature drying causes micro-cracks, reduces strength by 30–40% vs properly cured concrete.
Foundation Guide
Foundation Types for Lahore Strip, Raft & Pile Foundations Explained
The correct foundation type depends on your soil condition. A soil test (approximately Rs. 8,000–15,000) before construction determines which foundation type is required. Skipping the soil test can result in an incorrect foundation leading to structural failure.
| Foundation Type | Soil Condition | Depth | Cost Impact | Common Areas |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Strip Foundation | Standard soil (bearing capacity 12+ t/m²) | 4–5 ft | Standard included in base rate | Most DHA phases, Bahria Town |
| Raft (Plinth) Foundation | Soft or filled soil (bearing 7–12 t/m²) | 5–6 ft | +15–25% above strip | Some Phase 9 Prism, Rahbar areas |
| Pad Foundation | Good bearing at depth | 5–7 ft | +5–10% | Various DHA phases |
| Pile Foundation | Very weak soil (bearing below 7 t/m²) | 15–30 ft | +40–80% | Some canal-side plots, reclaimed land |
| Basement + Foundation | Standard or better soil | 10–14 ft | +35–55% of grey structure cost | DHA all phases (popular) |
Always get a soil test first. In DHA Lahore, most plots have good bearing capacity suitable for strip foundations. In Phase 9 Prism and some Rahbar phases, filled land may require raft foundations. Elegant Properties arranges soil testing as part of the pre-construction consultation call 0321-4813092.
Society-Wise Rates
Grey Structure Rates by Society DHA & Bahria Town Lahore 2026
Construction rates vary slightly by society due to approval requirements, logistics, and material availability. All rates below are for Elegant Properties A-grade grey structure.
DHA Lahore Grey Structure Rates by Phase
| Phase | Rate/sqft | 10 Marla Grey Structure | 1 Kanal Grey Structure | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DHA Phase 1 | Rs. 3,500–3,600 | Rs. 84L–1.01 Cr | Rs. 1.4–1.87 Cr | Heritage zone strict bylaws |
| DHA Phase 2 | Rs. 3,500–3,600 | Rs. 84L–1.01 Cr | Rs. 1.4–1.87 Cr | Standard DHA approval |
| DHA Phase 3 | Rs. 3,400–3,550 | Rs. 82–99L | Rs. 1.36–1.84 Cr | Y-Block coordination |
| DHA Phase 4 | Rs. 3,400–3,550 | Rs. 82–99L | Rs. 1.36–1.84 Cr | 5 Marla available |
| DHA Phase 5 | Rs. 3,500–3,600 | Rs. 84L–1.01 Cr | Rs. 1.4–1.87 Cr | Z-Block setback rules |
| DHA Phase 6 | Rs. 3,400–3,550 | Rs. 82–99L | Rs. 1.36–1.84 Cr | Boulevard facing rules |
| DHA Phase 7 | Rs. 3,400–3,500 | Rs. 82–98L | Rs. 1.36–1.82 Cr | Modern phase, 5 Marla available |
| DHA Phase 8 (Our HQ) | Rs. 3,400–3,500 | Rs. 82–98L | Rs. 1.36–1.82 Cr | Fastest approval we're local |
| DHA Phase 9 Prism | Rs. 3,400–3,500 | Rs. 82–98L | Rs. 1.36–1.82 Cr | Core blocks A–M recommended |
| DHA Rahbar (All) | Rs. 3,200–3,400 | Rs. 77–95L | Rs. 1.28–1.77 Cr | Rahbar bylaw package |
| DHA EME | Rs. 3,200–3,400 | Rs. 77–95L | Rs. 1.28–1.77 Cr | EME society compliance |
Bahria Town Lahore Grey Structure Rates
| Society/Phase | Rate/sqft | 10 Marla Grey Structure | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bahria Town Phase 1–4 | Rs. 3,300–3,500 | Rs. 79–98L | Established Bahria |
| Bahria Town Phase 5–8 | Rs. 3,300–3,500 | Rs. 79–98L | Modern infrastructure |
| Bahria Orchard Phase 1–4 | Rs. 3,200–3,400 | Rs. 77–95L | Affordable Bahria entry |
| Bahria Nasheman | Rs. 3,100–3,300 | Rs. 74–92L | 5 Marla specialist |
| Gulberg Lahore | Rs. 3,500–4,000 | Rs. 84L–1.12 Cr | Premium central Lahore |
| Model Town | Rs. 3,400–3,700 | Rs. 82L–1.04 Cr | Historic society |
| Lake City Lahore | Rs. 3,300–3,500 | Rs. 79–98L | Modern gated community |
| Valencia Town | Rs. 3,300–3,500 | Rs. 79–98L | Established community |
| Johar Town | Rs. 3,200–3,500 | Rs. 77–98L | Central Lahore location |
| Paragon City | Rs. 3,200–3,400 | Rs. 77–95L | Good infrastructure |
| LDA Avenue 1 | Rs. 3,100–3,300 | Rs. 74–92L | LDA approved |
Construction Process
Grey Structure Construction Process 8 Stages Step by Step
Understanding the grey structure process helps you monitor progress and verify quality at each stage. Here is exactly how Elegant Properties builds grey structures with what to check at each stage.
1
Soil Test & Drawings
Soil bearing capacity test. Architectural and structural drawings prepared. Society approval submission with all documents.
Week 1–3
2
NOC & Site Mobilisation
DHA/Bahria commencement NOC received. Site cleared. Construction hut, water supply, and material storage arranged. Layout marked on ground.
Week 3–6
3
Excavation & PCC
Excavation to foundation depth per drawings. Levelling, PCC bedding 3–4 inches. Verify: correct depth, clean base, level PCC.
Week 1–2 of construction
4
Foundation & DPC
Steel cage placement and inspection. Foundation concrete casting. 28-day curing. DPC application at plinth level. Check: steel sizes, concrete grade, DPC continuity.
Weeks 2–6
5
Plinth, Columns & GF Walls
Plinth filling and PCC floor. Ground floor column casting. Brickwork starts. Embedded plumbing and conduits laid during wall construction.
Weeks 5–12
6
First Floor Slab & Ring Beam
Formwork for first floor slab. Steel placement and inspection. Concrete casting. 28-day curing critical stage. First floor slab is your ground ceiling.
Weeks 11–15
7
First Floor & Top Slab
First floor columns, brickwork, beams, and top (second floor) slab casting. Staircase completion. Mumty slab if included.
Weeks 14–20
8
Boundary Wall & Handover
Boundary wall construction. Gate frame installation. Society inspection and completion certificate. Handover with full documentation and 5-year structural warranty.
Weeks 18–22
Grey Structure vs Turnkey
Grey Structure vs Turnkey Construction Which is Right for You?
| Factor | Grey Structure Only | Turnkey Complete |
|---|---|---|
| Rate/sqft | Rs. 3,400–3,600 | Rs. 5,500–8,500 |
| 10 Marla Total Cost | Rs. 82 L – 1.05 Cr | Rs. 1.32 – 2.38 Cr |
| 1 Kanal Total Cost | Rs. 1.36 – 1.87 Cr | Rs. 2.2 – 4.4 Cr |
| Move-in Ready | No finishing needed | Yes ready on delivery |
| Timeline | 10 Marla: 4–5 months | 10 Marla: 7–9 months |
| Finishing Control | Full control choose yourself | Pre-agreed specification |
| Budget Flexibility | High finish at your own pace | Fixed scope upfront |
| Best For | Investors, overseas buyers, budget-phased builders | End-users wanting immediate occupancy |
Grey structure makes sense if: You are an investor building to rent or sell, you are an overseas Pakistani managing construction remotely, you want to control finishing materials personally, or you want to spread construction cost over time. Turnkey makes sense if you need to move in on a specific date or want a single-contract delivery.
Common Mistakes
7 Biggest Grey Structure Mistakes in Pakistan And How to Avoid Them
1. No Soil Test Before Starting
Building on unfamiliar soil without a bearing capacity test risks building a strip foundation on soft soil causing differential settlement and structural cracking. Cost of soil test: Rs. 8,000. Cost of wrong foundation discovery mid-construction: Rs. 5–15 Lakh.
Fix: Always Soil Test First
Get a soil bearing capacity test from a certified lab before finalising foundation design. Elegant Properties arranges this as part of pre-construction consultation at no extra charge.
2. Accepting a Per-Sqft Quote Without BOQ
A single "Rs. 2,800/sqft all-in" quote with no Bill of Quantities is meaningless. The contractor can substitute cheap materials at any point and you have no contractual basis to object. You won't discover the substitution until cracks appear years later.
Fix: Always Demand a Full BOQ
A proper BOQ lists every material by quantity, grade, and unit price. It is the only way to compare quotes honestly and hold a contractor accountable. Elegant Properties provides a free, detailed BOQ for every project.
3. Insufficient Concrete Curing
Concrete gains strength over 28 days through a chemical process that requires continuous moisture. Budget contractors cure for 3–7 days to save time. Premature drying reduces concrete strength by 30–40%, causing hairline cracks that widen over time.
Fix: Contractual 28-Day Curing
Specify minimum 28-day water curing for all slabs and columns in your construction contract. Elegant Properties has a dedicated curing protocol wet gunny sacks plus twice-daily watering for 28 days post-casting on all structural elements.
4. No DPC (Damp Proof Course)
Skipping the DPC layer at plinth level allows groundwater to rise through walls by capillary action causing salt staining, peeling plaster, damp patches, and structural damage to brickwork. Many budget contractors skip this step to save Rs. 15,000–25,000.
Fix: Verify DPC Before Plinth-Level Work
Inspect your site personally when walls reach plinth level (ground level). A proper DPC is a visible bituminous layer or DPC membrane between the foundation and the first course of brickwork above ground. If it's not there, stop work.
5. Using Local Bajri Instead of Margalla Crush
Local bajri (river gravel) is rounded and smooth it has poor mechanical bond with cement paste. Margalla quarry crush is angular and rough it grips cement paste and produces concrete with 40–50% higher compressive strength for the same cement content.
Fix: Specify Margalla Crush in Writing
Include "Margalla quarry 3/4" crushed stone aggregate no bajri" in your material specifications contract clause. Inspect material deliveries yourself or via your site supervisor before unloading.
6. Skipping Society Approval
Starting construction in DHA or Bahria Town without approved drawings and a commencement NOC risks demolition orders from the society. DHA has a dedicated enforcement team that inspects sites regularly. An unapproved structure may be forced to demolish at your cost.
Fix: Always Get Society NOC First
In DHA, submit drawings and pay approval fees 4–6 weeks before you want to start construction. In Bahria Town, 3–4 weeks. Elegant Properties handles the entire approval process drawings, submission, fee payment, NOC collection at no extra charge.
7. Paying 100% Upfront
Never pay a construction contractor 100% upfront or more than 25% before work starts. Once full payment is received, contractors lose urgency work slows, material quality drops, and the contractor may become inaccessible.
Fix: Milestone-Based Payment Schedule
Standard Elegant Properties payment schedule: 20% mobilisation, 20% after foundation, 20% after ground floor slab, 20% after roof slab, 15% after boundary wall, 5% retention after handover. Withheld retention ensures contractor resolves snags.
Hiring Guide
How to Hire a Grey Structure Contractor in Lahore 8-Point Checklist
1. Verify completed projects Ask for at least 3 completed grey structure project references with site addresses you can visit and inspect. If a contractor cannot provide physical references, do not hire them.
2. Demand a full BOQ Every material listed by quantity, grade, and unit price. A quote without a BOQ is not a quote it is a blank cheque for substitutions.
3. Check society experience A DHA Phase 8 construction contractor must know DHA's specific setback rules, column size requirements, and approval process. Ask specifically: "How many projects have you completed in this DHA phase?"
4. Confirm site supervision arrangement Who is the dedicated site engineer for your project? How many hours per day? Request daily log reports as a standard service. A contractor who visits once a week is not a supervisor.
5. Get a signed contract with material specs The contract must specify: Grade 60 steel, branded cement brand names, awwal bricks only, Margalla crush only, minimum 28-day curing on all slabs. If it's not in the contract, it won't be enforced.
6. Agree on a milestone payment schedule Never more than 25% upfront. Payments tied to verifiable completion milestones (foundation complete, ground floor slab complete, etc.) aligned with third-party inspection.
7. Confirm structural warranty terms A reputable contractor provides a minimum 3–5 year written structural warranty. Any contractor who refuses a structural warranty should not be trusted with your foundation.
8. Compare at least 3 quotes Never accept the first quote. Get BOQ-based quotes from at least 3 contractors. Compare material specs line by line not just the total number. A Rs. 2,650/sqft quote and a Rs. 3,400/sqft quote are not comparable if the material grades differ.
Get Your Grey Structure Quote in 24 Hours
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Grey Structure Construction 15 Frequently Asked Questions
What is grey structure in construction Pakistan?
Grey structure is the complete structural framework of a building before any finishing work everything from the underground foundation to the final roof slab. It is called "grey" because all surfaces remain in raw grey concrete and brick at this stage. It includes: excavation, PCC, RCC foundation, DPC, brickwork, RCC columns and beams, roof slab, staircase, boundary wall, gate frame, embedded conduits, and underground plumbing routes. It does NOT include plaster, paint, flooring, doors, windows, or any interior finishing.
What is the grey structure rate per sqft in Lahore 2026?
Grey structure rates in Lahore 2026 range from Rs. 2,200/sqft (budget/C-grade) to Rs. 3,600+/sqft (premium/A-grade). Elegant Properties charges Rs. 3,400–3,600/sqft for A-grade construction using Grade 60 steel, branded cement, awwal kiln bricks, and Margalla crush. Budget contractors offer Rs. 2,650–2,875/sqft but use B-grade materials that fail within 5–10 years. The "cheapest" grey structure often becomes the most expensive when repair costs are factored in.
What is the 5 Marla grey structure cost in Lahore?
5 Marla grey structure cost in Lahore 2026 at Elegant Properties: Single storey Rs. 20–26 Lakh. Double storey Rs. 37–47 Lakh (Rs. 3,400–3,600/sqft on ~1,100–1,300 sqft covered area). Basement addition: +Rs. 18–25 Lakh. Total cost varies by soil condition, foundation type, and storey count. Timeline: 3–4 months. Free BOQ estimate available call 0321-4813092.
What is the 10 Marla grey structure cost in DHA Lahore 2026?
10 Marla grey structure in DHA Lahore 2026: Single storey Rs. 45–58 Lakh. Double storey Rs. 82 Lakh–1.05 Crore. Basement addition +Rs. 32–45 Lakh. Covered area for double storey: approximately 2,400–2,800 sqft. DHA Phase-specific approval, setback compliance, and site supervision included in Elegant Properties' price. Timeline: 4–5 months.
What is the 1 Kanal grey structure cost in Lahore?
1 Kanal grey structure in Lahore 2026: Single storey Rs. 75 Lakh–1 Crore. Double storey Rs. 1.36–1.87 Crore. Basement addition +Rs. 55–80 Lakh. Covered area for double storey: approximately 4,000–5,200 sqft. Timeline: 5–7 months. For DHA Phase 1–5, add DHA heritage or premium zone approval requirements.
Does grey structure include plumbing in Pakistan?
Grey structure includes EMBEDDED plumbing only the underground drainage pipes (sewage system), underground water supply pipe routes, and pipe sleeves through walls and slabs. These are laid during construction before walls and floors are closed. Grey structure does NOT include plumbing fixtures taps, commodes, wash basins, showers, geysers, or any above-slab visible plumbing. Those are part of the finishing (turnkey) stage.
Does grey structure include plaster?
No. Plaster (cement-sand application to walls) is NOT part of grey structure. It is the first item of the finishing stage applied after grey structure is fully complete and cured. Grey structure leaves all wall surfaces in raw exposed brick and all concrete surfaces in raw formwork finish. Plaster is typically priced separately at Rs. 180–250/sqft and adds 4–6 weeks to the construction timeline.
How long does grey structure construction take in Lahore?
Grey structure construction timelines at Elegant Properties: 5 Marla double storey: 3–4 months. 10 Marla double storey: 4–5 months. 1 Kanal double storey: 5–7 months. 2 Kanal double storey: 7–10 months. Note: DHA/Bahria Town drawing approval takes 2–5 weeks before construction starts and is separate from the construction timeline. Basement addition adds 4–6 weeks to any project.
What materials are needed for grey structure?
A 10 Marla double-storey grey structure requires approximately: 88,000–95,000 Class A kiln bricks, 5.5–7 tons Grade 60 steel bars, 550–600 bags branded cement (OPC 43/53), 3,200 CFT Margalla crush, 4,800 CFT fine sand, formwork timber and shutter plates, DPC membrane/bituminous paint, binding wire and spacers, and miscellaneous items. Total material cost at March 2026 rates: Rs. 62–75 Lakh. Labour adds Rs. 16–23 Lakh.
Is grey structure cheaper than turnkey construction?
Yes significantly. Grey structure costs Rs. 3,400–3,600/sqft. Turnkey construction costs Rs. 5,500–8,500/sqft. For a 10 Marla double storey house: grey structure is Rs. 82 Lakh–1.05 Crore vs turnkey at Rs. 1.32–2.38 Crore. Grey structure is approximately 55–65% of the total turnkey construction cost. The remaining 35–45% is the finishing (plaster, paint, flooring, doors, windows, electrical, plumbing, kitchen).
Can I do grey structure construction in DHA Phase 8 Lahore?
Yes. Elegant Properties is based at 92-D Broadway Commercial, DHA Phase 8 making us the most locally experienced contractor for Phase 8 construction. We know every Phase 8 bylaw, setback requirement, and approval process. Grey structure in Phase 8: Rs. 3,400–3,500/sqft. DHA Phase 8 drawing approval typically takes 2–3 weeks faster than most other phases because of our existing relationships with the Phase 8 DHA office.
What is DPC in grey structure construction?
DPC stands for Damp Proof Course a horizontal waterproofing layer applied at plinth level (just above ground level) between the foundation brickwork and the start of the above-ground walls. Without DPC, groundwater rises through the brickwork by capillary action causing salt staining (namak), wet patches on lower walls, and eventually brickwork decay. A good DPC is either a bituminous paint layer, a polythene sheet, or a purpose-made DPC membrane. Its cost is Rs. 15,000–30,000 for a standard residential plot and is non-negotiable for a quality grey structure.
What is the difference between grey structure and complete construction?
Grey structure = the structural shell only. Complete (turnkey) construction = grey structure + all finishing. Grey structure cost: Rs. 3,400–3,600/sqft. Complete construction cost: Rs. 5,500–15,000+/sqft depending on finishing category. The finishing includes: internal and external plaster, flooring tiles, wall tiles, all doors and frames, all windows, electrical wiring and fixtures, plumbing fixtures, kitchen cabinets, paint, and all interior and exterior finishes. Grey structure is 55–65% of the total house construction budget.
Why should I choose Elegant Properties for grey structure in DHA Lahore?
Elegant Properties has built grey structures across DHA Phase 1 through Phase 9, Bahria Town, and all major Lahore housing societies for 15+ years. Our office is at 92-D Broadway Commercial, DHA Phase 8 we know every DHA phase from the inside. We offer: Rs. 3,400–3,600/sqft A-grade pricing with full BOQ transparency, Grade 60 steel and branded cement verified on site, dedicated civil engineer per project, weekly photo progress reports, DHA/Bahria approval handling at no extra charge, milestone-based payment schedule, and a 5-year written structural warranty. Call 0321-4813092 for your free grey structure estimate.
How do I get a grey structure quote from Elegant Properties?
Getting a grey structure quote from Elegant Properties takes less than 5 minutes: WhatsApp us at 0321-4813092 with your plot size (5 Marla, 10 Marla, 1 Kanal, etc.), housing society (DHA Phase __, Bahria Town, etc.), and whether you want single storey, double storey, or with basement. We will send you a detailed BOQ-based estimate within 24 hours with itemised material costs, labour costs, timeline, and payment schedule. No obligation. No hidden charges. Free for all Lahore societies.
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