The 10 Hidden Costs in Chennai Interior Design
This is the most common surprise. Many companies quote ₹7L but that's before 18% GST. Your actual bill is ₹8.26L. Always ask: "Is this price GST-inclusive?" and get it in writing.
Adds 18% to every rupeeCivil work is almost never in a standard interior package. If your builder hasn't done flooring and you want to replace tiles, this is a separate contractor cost. Flooring alone for a 2BHK: ₹60K–₹1.2L depending on tile grade.
₹60K–₹2L+ for a 2BHKYour quote may include 5 new electrical points. But during execution you realise you need 12 — for under-cabinet kitchen lights, wardrobe LED, extra AC points, bathroom exhaust, etc. Each new point costs ₹800–₹1800 in Chennai including concealed wire.
₹800–₹1800 per extra pointOnce fabrication starts, any change to dimensions, layout, or materials has a cost — labour for rework plus material waste. Some companies charge 10–15% extra on the changed item. Finalise your design 100% before fabrication starts.
10–20% premium on changed itemsIf you're changing a layout or removing old furniture, there's demolition cost. Cutting a wall for new electrical conduits or a cable TV point: ₹500–₹1500 per cut. Waterproofing a bathroom if discovered during demolition: ₹15K–₹40K extra.
₹10K–₹60K depending on scopeNot all companies include 3D visualisation in their quote. Some charge ₹5K–₹25K for 3D renders before you sign a contract. Homeli provides free 3D visualisation — but always confirm with whichever company you approach.
₹5K–₹25K if charged separatelySome companies charge ₹500–₹2000 for a site visit, deducted from the final bill if you sign. Ask before scheduling — good companies don't charge for initial visits.
₹500–₹2000 at some companiesA kitchen package typically doesn't include the chimney, hob, oven, or sink. These are add-ons. A decent chimney: ₹12K–₹45K. A granite sink: ₹8K–₹20K. These add up quickly once you're in the kitchen showroom.
₹30K–₹1L for full kitchen appliancesSome companies charge for post-handover visits if complaints arise after 30 days. Check the warranty terms — what's covered, for how long, and what costs extra after the warranty period.
Varies — check warranty terms carefullySome designers charge 8–12% of project value as a design/supervision fee, on top of material cost. Others fold it in. This can add ₹50K–₹1.5L to a large project. Ask upfront: is your fee separate or included?
8–12% of project cost if separateHow to Get a Truly All-Inclusive Quote
The key is to ask these questions before you commit:
- Is the quoted price GST-inclusive?
- What civil work is included?
- How many electrical points are included, and what's the rate for additions?
- Are 3D renders included?
- What is your policy on design changes after fabrication starts?
- Is site supervision included or charged separately?
- What is your exclusions list?
At Homeli, our quote includes GST, 3D visualisation, site visits, and a detailed exclusions list so you know the full picture before signing anything.
Frequently Asked Questions
GST (18%), civil work (flooring, bathroom tiling), extra electrical points, design change charges, demolition costs, appliances, and site supervision fees. Together these can add 25–40% to the headline quote.
Yes. Interior design and modular furniture attract 18% GST. A ₹7L quote becomes ₹8.26L with GST. Always confirm if prices are GST-inclusive before comparing quotes.
Get an itemised BOQ with a clear exclusions list. Confirm GST is included. Ask about extra electrical point rates. Finalise design 100% before fabrication starts to avoid change charges.
Not always. Some companies charge ₹5K–₹25K for 3D renders. Others (including Homeli) include it free. Always ask before booking a consultation.
Also see: What's Included in a Package · Where Your Money Goes · How to Budget for Interiors · Interior Designers in Chennai