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📚 Construction Guide

House Construction Checklist for First-Time Homeowners in Chennai

A complete house construction checklist for first-time homeowners in Chennai. From plot purchase to handover — every step explained.

Building your first home is one of the most exciting — and challenging — experiences of your life. This checklist walks you through every important stage so nothing is missed and you are never caught off guard.

Before Construction: Plot and Legal

  • Verify encumbrance certificate (EC) — minimum 15 years
  • Confirm clear patta (land ownership document)
  • Check if plot has any mortgage or legal dispute
  • Verify setback rules and FSI for your local body zone
  • Get plot survey and corner marking done
  • Verify CMDA / DTCP approval requirement for your zone

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Design and Engineering Stage

  • Engage a licensed structural engineer
  • Get SBC (Soil Bearing Capacity) lab test done
  • Get architectural plan prepared and verified
  • Get structural drawings including foundation design
  • Review plan for space efficiency, ventilation, and light
  • Submit plan for approval (if required)

BOQ and Contractor Selection

  • Prepare / receive detailed itemized BOQ
  • Verify BOQ covers all scope items (use checklist)
  • Get BOQ audited if needed
  • Get minimum 3 contractor quotes
  • Compare quotes on apples-to-apples basis
  • Sign a detailed construction contract with milestone payments

During Construction

  • Confirm soil testing report before foundation work
  • Attend foundation concrete pour if possible
  • Request slump test records for each pour
  • Request cube compression test results at 28 days
  • Photo-document each construction stage
  • Verify material deliveries against BOQ
  • Check rebar placement against structural drawings before pouring

Handover

  • Walk through with contractor for snag list
  • Request all test reports and laboratory certificates
  • Obtain structural warranty certificate
  • Create/update Property Passport with all records
  • Get as-built drawings from contractor
  • Test all electrical, plumbing, and drainage systems

FAQs

What is an Encumbrance Certificate (EC)?

An EC is an official record of all registered transactions on a property for a specified period. It confirms whether the plot is free from legal encumbrances like mortgages or disputes. Always verify EC before purchase.

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