We had contacted HomeLane to get the interiors done for our home and after 3-4 meetings, they had given us a design and quote based on our home layout. We had asked for some changes in the design and we were told that the customizations we require are not supported in the software they use before we make payment. They had asked us to do 10% of the quote amount in order to proceed further.
We made the 10% payment to them to proceed further and started engaging with them to customize the design. The changes were mainly related to small increases in width or height of the cabinets. Also, most of the changes we wanted were rejected by them by saying them that these changes are not possible. At no point during these modifications, we were indicated the cost difference of particular cabinet/wardrobe before and after the modification. As done in any normal interior work, we expected this to increase the cost in similar proportions.
We were surprised when we were told the final cost 4 weeks after we had paid them the 10% amount. The cost has been increased by almost 80% amount. When we enquired why the cost has increased so much, we were first hurried into getting the markings done in the house and were told that they will tell details about each item after this.
When we went into each item, we realized we have been taken for a ride. They had almost doubled the cost of a cabinet/wardrobe even for a increase by 3 inches. In some cases, they were charging for filler components which was costing same as a shutter. When we asked why there is so much price difference, they said they have standard sizes and if we go beyond standard size, then the cost is almost double.
We decided to cancel the project with them on the grounds of misinformation as this information was not told to us before we paid the 10% amount and it was not even indicated anytime during the 4 week period when we were asking them to do the customization. From many of their internal sources, we got to know that this is their normal way to cheat customer. First they lure the customer in and get them to pay 10% of the amount and then make the cost jump up unexpectedly. At this point, customer has no choice but to go with them or else lose their money. If you are getting lured-in because of the freebies like Chimney(upto a certain value) that they offer, you will be surprised to know that the cost at which they offer the chimney is already 30 to 40% higher than market price, so in-effect they are just offering a discount of 3k.
When we contacted their founder, Tanuj Choudhry, even he agreed to this tactic to cheat customers and refused to refund the money. Stay far far away from Homelane or else end up losing your hard earned money.