01
What should a turnkey package include?
A package should identify structural work, masonry, plaster, waterproofing, electrical, plumbing, flooring, doors, windows, paint and other agreed finishes. It should also state what is excluded, such as authority fees, loose furniture, landscaping, lifts, solar systems or premium interior joinery if those are outside scope.
02
How pricing is usually structured
Turnkey residential work may be quoted as a per-square-foot package or as a BOQ-based lump sum. Per-square-foot packages are easier for early comparison, while BOQ pricing can provide more detail when drawings are developed. In both cases, specification allowances and change-order rules matter.
03
Timeline and client decisions
Even a turnkey contractor needs timely client decisions. Tile, sanitaryware, façade, electrical points, kitchen layouts and paint schemes should be approved before their execution dates. Delayed decisions can delay procurement and labour sequencing.
04
Payment milestones
Payments should follow measurable progress rather than arbitrary dates. Typical milestones may correspond to mobilization, structure levels, masonry, MEP rough-ins, plaster, flooring, finishing and handover. The contract should define how progress is certified.
05
What to check before signing
Review drawings, scope, brands, exclusions, timeline, payment schedule, variation process, defect responsibility and handover documentation. A strong turnkey agreement reduces ambiguity for both client and contractor.
06
How to read a turnkey proposal
Read the proposal as a scope document, not a marketing package. For each trade, identify what is supplied, what brand/range is assumed, what quantity or allowance applies and what is excluded. Check whether design, structural engineering, soil investigation, authority fees, temporary power/water, debris removal and handover documentation are included.
07
Example variation scenario
Suppose the package includes tiles up to a stated allowance, but the client later selects a significantly higher-priced product. A good contract explains how the difference is calculated—material difference, extra wastage if relevant and any installation impact. The same logic should apply to added electrical points, façade changes or upgraded sanitaryware. Clear rules reduce conflict.
08
Quality control under a single contractor
Turnkey does not remove the need for inspections. The contractor should still maintain stage checks for reinforcement, concrete, waterproofing, concealed MEP, pressure testing, flooring levels and finishing. Clients may also appoint an independent consultant for selected inspections if the project warrants it.
09
Questions to ask before award
Who owns design coordination? Who approves samples? What is the baseline programme? What happens when a client decision is late? How are variations priced? What warranties and test records are handed over? Who remains responsible for defects after possession? A contractor that answers these questions clearly is easier to manage than one relying only on a low headline rate.