Three interior quotes for the same flat can differ by several lakh, and it's rarely obvious why. Here is how to read a quote line by line, and the questions to ask before you sign.
1. Check that the scope matches
List every room and unit you asked for, then tick them off in each quote. Missing items, such as the loft above a wardrobe or the crockery unit, are the most common reason one quote looks cheaper.
2. Find the plywood grade
Every carcass (the box of a cabinet) should name its plywood grade and thickness, for example "BWR 18 mm". If a quote just says "plywood", ask. The kitchen sink base should be BWP. Learn the grades.
3. Find the shutter finish and its thickness
Laminate, acrylic, PU or veneer, with the laminate thickness (for example 1 mm) and the brand or range. Two "laminate" quotes can use very different products.
4. Find the hardware brand
Hinges, drawer channels, kitchen baskets and handles should each name a brand. Hardware decides how well your cabinets still work after five years.
5. Compare rates per unit, not just totals
Good quotes give a rate per square foot or per running foot for each unit. That lets you compare like for like and spot padding.
6. Read the payment terms
Be careful with quotes that ask for 40–50% before work starts. A fair schedule links payments to finished work. BookInterio uses 10% at booking, 40% after design sign-off and material delivery, 40% after installation, and 10% at handover, each after an inspection.
7. Check timeline, warranty and exclusions
The quote should state the delivery time, the warranty period and what it covers, and what's excluded (civil work, painting, electrical, appliances).
Checklist before you sign: same scope, plywood grade per unit, shutter finish and thickness, hardware brands, rates per unit, stage-linked payments, written timeline and warranty.
Frequently asked questions
Why are interior quotes so different for the same flat?
Mostly because of differences in scope, plywood grade, shutter finish and hardware brand. Comparing these line by line explains most of the gap.
How much advance should I pay an interior designer?
As little as possible before work starts. A schedule linked to finished work, such as 10% at booking, protects you best.
Should I choose the cheapest quote?
Only if it covers the same scope and materials. A cheaper quote often uses lower-grade plywood or hardware.