Lalsar Infra · Question

How should I sequence design, approvals, finance and construction for a new building?

Short answer

Usually the order runs from site and requirement, to concept design, to estimated cost, to funding in principle, to detailed drawings and approvals, then contractor selection and construction. These stages overlap in practice, but money should not be committed ahead of approvals. Each step produces something the next one needs, so skipping ahead tends to cause rework.

In more detail

Think of the project as a chain where each link supplies the next.

Start with the plot and your requirement: what the building will be used for, how much space is needed now, and what might be added later. Check that the land title is clear and that the intended use is allowed for that plot.

A concept design follows, giving a rough layout and an indicative cost. That cost lets you speak to lenders early. A lender usually gives an in-principle view first and a formal sanction only once approved drawings and other documents are in hand.

Detailed drawings come next, and the application for building permission goes to the competent local authority. Timelines vary by place and by how complete the application is. Use this waiting time to finalise the funding paperwork and request contractor quotations against the same drawings.

Contractor selection should use one drawing set and one scope document, so that quotations can be compared fairly. Construction begins only after the required permissions are in place and the first release of funds has been arranged.

What each stage hands to the next
Stage	Output that the next stage needs
Requirement and plot	Use, size and clear title
Concept design	Layout and indicative cost
Funding in principle	Borrowing limit to design within
Detailed drawings	Basis for approval and pricing
Approvals	Permission to begin

Do not fix the budget after the contractor is hired

Setting the budget late forces design cuts in the middle of construction, which is the most expensive time to change anything.

Key points

Settle use, size and land title before paying for detailed design.
Share indicative costs with a lender early, but expect formal sanction to follow approved drawings.
Request all contractor quotations against one drawing set and one scope document.
Approvals decided by the local authority control when work can start.
Use approval waiting time to complete financing and tendering paperwork.

Who this applies to

Owners planning their first factory, warehouse, shop or office building.
Promoters coordinating an architect, a lender and a contractor at once.
Finance heads who want the funding calendar to match the build calendar.

Last reviewed 3 October 2026

This answer is general information, not advice on your particular case. Terms, eligibility, and requirements change, so check the current position with the relevant institution or authority.