Building your dream home in Lahore is an exciting journey, but the first step is always the most crucial: understanding the budget. With material prices and labor charges constantly fluctuating, getting an accurate estimate for a 5 Marla or 10 Marla house requires careful planning.
This complete blog breaks down the estimated construction costs in Lahore, Pakistan, for 2024-2025, covering the crucial two stages: the Grey Structure and the Finishing.
5 Marla House Construction Cost in Lahore
A double-storey 5 Marla house typically has a covered area ranging from 1,800 to 2,250 square feet. This size is highly popular and offers an excellent balance of space and affordability.
The current estimated cost range for a complete 5 Marla house in Lahore is approximately:
| Quality Category | Total Estimated Cost (PKR) | Key Components |
| Budget/Basic Quality | PKR 85 Lacs – 1.0 Crore | Local tiles, standard fittings, basic woodwork. |
| Standard/A-Category | PKR 1.0 Crore – 1.25 Crore | Better quality tiles, quality fittings, semi-solid wood doors. |
| Premium/Luxury Quality | PKR 1.25 Crore – 1.6 Crore+ | Imported or high-end local finishes, designer fittings, solid wood work. |
Detailed 5 Marla Cost Breakdown
The construction process is divided into two major phases, each with its own significant cost:
1. Grey Structure Cost
The grey structure includes the foundation, walls, roofing, electrical/plumbing conduits, and exterior plastering. This is the structural skeleton of the house.
| Component | Estimated Cost Range (PKR) | Percentage of Total Cost |
| Grey Structure | PKR 50 Lacs – 65 Lacs | Approx. 50% – 60% |
| (Per Square Foot Rate) | (PKR 2,800 – PKR 3,500+) |
2. Finishing Cost
The finishing stage is where the house gets its look and feel. The costs here are highly variable and depend entirely on your choices (tiles, paint, fixtures, etc.).
| Component | Estimated Cost Range (PKR) | Percentage of Total Cost |
| Finishing | PKR 55 Lacs – 75 Lacs | Approx. 40% – 50% |
| (Per Square Foot Rate) | (PKR 3,000 – PKR 4,500+) |
10 Marla House Construction Cost in Lahore
A double-storey 10 Marla house typically has a covered area ranging from 3,200 to 3,800 square feet. This size provides substantial space, making it suitable for larger families or those who desire a luxurious, spacious layout.
The current estimated cost range for a complete 10 Marla house in Lahore is approximately:
| Quality Category | Total Estimated Cost (PKR) | Key Components |
| Budget/Basic Quality | PKR 1.6 Crore – 2.0 Crore | Standard materials and finishing. |
| Standard/A-Category | PKR 2.0 Crore – 2.5 Crore | Quality materials, good fixtures, and durable woodwork. |
| Premium/Luxury Quality | PKR 2.5 Crore – 3.5 Crore+ | Imported tiles, high-end sanitary fittings, custom cabinetry, luxury finishes. |
Detailed 10 Marla Cost Breakdown
Similar to the 5 Marla plot, the total cost for a 10 Marla house is split between the grey structure and the finishing work.
1. Grey Structure Cost
Due to the larger covered area, the volume of concrete, steel, and bricks required is significantly higher.
| Component | Estimated Cost Range (PKR) | Percentage of Total Cost |
| Grey Structure | PKR 95 Lacs – 1.2 Crore | Approx. 50% – 55% |
| (Per Square Foot Rate) | (PKR 2,800 – PKR 3,500+) |
2. Finishing Cost
The expansive interior of a 10 Marla house means finishing costs, especially for flooring, woodwork, and paint, scale up considerably.
| Component | Estimated Cost Range (PKR) | Percentage of Total Cost |
| Finishing | PKR 1.0 Crore – 1.3 Crore | Approx. 45% – 50% |
| (Per Square Foot Rate) | (PKR 3,000 – PKR 4,500+) |
Top 5 Factors Influencing Your Final Construction Cost
Understanding the primary cost drivers is essential for effective budget management when building a house in Lahore. While general estimates provide a starting point, five key factors have the power to significantly shift your final construction expenditure, potentially adding lakhs of rupees to the total. Careful planning and specific material choices related to these factors are critical for staying on budget and achieving the desired outcome. These influences determine the longevity, aesthetic appeal, and overall value of your 5 Marla or 10 Marla property.
- Material Quality and Grade
The single largest cost determinant is the quality and grade of raw materials used for the grey structure. Opting for A-Grade (first-class) materials, such as specific brands of cement, 60-grade steel rebar, and uniformly burned bricks, substantially increases structural integrity and longevity, but comes at a higher price point than B-Grade alternatives. High-quality materials minimize the risk of future structural issues, reducing long-term maintenance costs. For instance, using a better blend of concrete or more robust steel is a direct, linear cost increase in the foundational phase of the project, which is non-negotiable for a durable home.
- Finishing Choices (Tiles, Fixtures, Woodwork)
The finishing phase introduces the most volatile cost element, as it is driven by aesthetic preference and brand selection. Decisions regarding flooring (imported marble vs. local tiles), bathroom sanitary fittings (designer vs. standard local), and kitchen cabinetry (solid wood vs. laminated UV sheet) directly influence the budget. Premium Italian or Spanish tiles, for example, can be several times more expensive per square foot than local ceramics. Similarly, extensive, high-quality solid wood use for doors and built-in wardrobes significantly inflates the finishing budget compared to using engineered or semi-solid materials. This phase allows for the most flexibility in budget adjustment.
- Covered Area and Design Complexity
The total covered area of the house (the sum of all floor spaces) and the complexity of the architectural design have a massive impact on the quantity of materials and labor required. A larger covered area, common in a 10 Marla house, directly translates to needing more bricks, cement, steel, and roofing materials. Furthermore, complex designs involving non-standard angles, multiple balconies, double-height ceilings, or basements require specialized shoring, intricate formwork, and skilled labor. This complexity increases the per-square-foot cost compared to a simpler, box-like, conventional structure, directly affecting both the grey and finishing stages.
- Contractor Type (Labour vs. Turnkey)
The contracting model chosen dictates how material procurement and risk are managed, affecting the final price. A Labour Contract involves the owner managing the purchase and delivery of all materials while paying the contractor only for labor. This can theoretically save money if the owner is good at sourcing, but it requires substantial time and carries the risk of material wastage or delays. Conversely, a Turnkey Contract offers a fixed, all-inclusive price where the contractor manages everything. While more expensive, the fixed cost provides budget certainty and saves the owner from operational headaches, but the markup cost is built into the final quote.
- Location and Regulatory Standards
The location of the plot within Lahore can influence the construction cost through varying labor rates and the regulatory standards of the housing society. Construction wages tend to be higher in affluent or centrally located areas, as skilled laborers may charge a premium. Moreover, established societies like DHA, Bahria Town, or other private ventures often enforce stricter bylaws regarding boundary walls, structural specifications, and exterior design approvals. These stringent standards might necessitate the use of specific, high-cost materials or adherence to particular construction methodologies, pushing the final cost to the higher end of the regional average.
Final Thoughts
Building a house is one of the most significant investments you will make. It is highly recommended to allocate a 5% to 10% contingency budget for unforeseen expenses, as market fluctuations are frequent in Pakistan. Always get a detailed Bill of Quantities (BOQ) from your contractor to ensure transparency in material quality and pricing.
