Blinds Quotation Red Flags: 9 Things That Signal a Bad Deal

Most blinds quotations are a single page with a number at the bottom. That simplicity hides a lot. Two quotes with the same total can deliver very different blinds, and a cheap quote can become expensive once installation, GST and remakes are added. Here are nine red flags to check before paying anything.

1. No fabric name or code

"Blackout roller — ₹X" is not a specification. A proper quote names the fabric or collection and the shade code so you can be sure you receive what you saw. Without it, a cheaper fabric can be substituted with no way to prove it.

2. Sizes not listed per window

Every window should appear with its own width, height and area. A single total area for the whole house hides mistakes and makes it impossible to check the maths. It also leaves you with no record if a blind arrives the wrong size.

3. GST "extra" or not mentioned

A rate that excludes GST looks cheaper but adds tax at the end. Ask whether the price includes GST and whether you will get a proper tax invoice. At BlindsBazaar, GST is included in the displayed price.

4. Minimum billing hidden

Nearly every made-to-measure supplier bills small windows on a minimum area. That is fair — it reflects cutting and fitting effort — but it should be stated. Ours is 10 sq ft per blind. A quote that hides it may jump once small windows are counted. Read blinds for small windows.

5. Installation and fittings unclear

Ask: Is installation included? Who installs — their own team or a freelancer? Are brackets and screws included? Will they drill into concrete or only into wood frames? Unclear answers usually mean an extra visit charge later.

6. Warranty with no detail

"Warranty available" means nothing. Ask how long, and what it covers: fabric, mechanism, motor? Who visits for a claim? We offer a 3-year warranty on fabric, mechanism and motor, in writing.

7. No mention of who measures

If you measure, mistakes are yours. If they measure, mistakes should be theirs. A quote built on your measurements should say so. Ideally, choose a supplier who offers a site measurement — free across Delhi NCR with us — or follow a reliable measuring guide.

8. Remake policy not stated

What happens if a blind arrives a few centimetres short? A good supplier remakes their own mistakes at no cost. Ask the question directly before you order. Our article on measurement mistakes shows how common they are.

9. Large advance, vague timeline

A reasonable advance for custom work is normal. A large advance with "delivery soon" is not. Ask for an expected timeline in days. Made-to-measure blinds usually take 7–21 days to make and deliver.

A good quote looks like this

• Each window listed with size, area and blind type
• Fabric name or code and colour
• Price per sq ft and the minimum area rule
• GST included or shown clearly
• Installation, brackets and delivery stated
• Warranty length and coverage in writing
• Expected timeline

Check your numbers against real rates

For reference, 2026 rates at BlindsBazaar: roller ₹100–₹250 per sq ft (most ₹100–₹130) and zebra ₹120–₹190, GST included. Our guide on how a custom blind quote works explains each line, and the price guide shows typical totals.

FAQs

Is a very low per-sq-ft rate always a red flag?

Not always, but check what is excluded. Low rates often leave out GST, installation or use a thinner fabric.

Should I pay full amount in advance?

Ask for a clear payment schedule. Paying online with a proper invoice and written terms gives you the most protection.