When you hire carpenters in Mumbai you can usually choose between two ways of paying: contract basis, where the team supplies material and labour for one price, and labour basis, where you buy the material and pay only for the work.
Contract basis
- One price for everything — material, labour, hardware, finishing and fitting.
- Less running around for you; the team buys and transports the material.
- Easier to compare quotes and plan your budget.
- Best when you are busy, or when the job is large such as a full flat.
Labour basis
- You buy plywood, laminate, hardware and other material yourself.
- You pay the team per sq ft or per day for the work — often ₹250 – ₹450 per sq ft for wardrobes and kitchens.
- You control the brands and can save the dealer margin.
- Best when you know materials well or have time to visit shops.
Which saves more money?
Labour basis can save 10–15% if you buy material at a good rate and nothing is wasted. But wrong quantities, extra trips and delays can wipe out the saving. For small jobs labour basis is often cheaper; for complete flats contract basis is usually simpler and safer.
Tips for either way
- Get the scope, brands and payment schedule in writing.
- Pay in stages linked to work done, not all in advance.
- Check one completed site of the team before you hire them.
We work both ways. Tell us about your job and we will quote on contract basis, labour basis or both, so you can compare.
