Don't start building until you complete these 5 simple checks
Your sledgehammer is ready to break through those walls and create your dream home. But before it potentially turns into a nightmare, here are five essential checks that all self builders should tick before ploughing ahead.
1. Do your research
A good foundation to any self-build project is preparation and knowledge. Take the time to arm yourself with information on every aspect of the build. Visit construction shows for self-builders, use the internet to search for experts in this field – from architects to plasterers. Network as much as possible for those nuggets of wisdom.
Ask yourself questions – what kind of home do I want to live in? Is it an energy efficient, low carbon space? It’s also worth thinking about the kind of materials you will use – whether it’s a timber frame or a steel frame construction.
2. Plan your costs
Your final costs will be influenced by the quality of finishing materials you select. Stay grounded – it’s easy to get swept away by plush marble worktops or stunning oak wood flooring.
Before you commence your project or purchase a plot, investigate the kind of foundations you require. It’s not uncommon to face unexpected costs due to soil contamination or buried pipes. Dig deep (literally!) and find exactly how much those foundations will cost and what kind of services you’ll need. You can enlist the help of utility companies and book in a soil survey to inspect the ground below to avoid nasty surprises - and added expense.
It’s even worth looking at a fixed price estimating service and quantity calculators to help monitor your costs when it comes to materials, labour and plant tool hire.
3. Obtain the correct insurance
If you are project managing the build it is essential you take out cover. You never know what issues can arise so you can rest safe in the knowledge that everything is covered.
Employer’s Liability is a must as you are running the project and you are the employer of any workers on that site. You will also need to purchase Public Liability insurance to cover members of the public should an accident occur as a result of your site activity.
4. Do it all yourself or not?
It always returns to the old adage ‘time is money’. Think about which parts of the project you can do yourself. Do you intend to project manage and finish the decorating? Decide on what you plan to undertake and contact your suppliers to price the jobs should you need extra help on the painting or tiling. Doing it yourself could save money in the long run but it’s the finishes that you have to live with so it may be worth investing in some professional help to achieve that sleek finish.
5. Take out a structural warranty
Taking out a structural warranty is often a requirement for a self-build mortgage. This kind of insurance policy covers any major faults in the workmanship, design and materials used in the construction of a self-build. This kind of policy isn’t a legal requirement but a lender on the project will insist on one and if you were to sell the house the purchaser’s solicitor would also require this insurance policy.
Setting a Self-Build Budget
Setting a budget for your self-build can be a daunting task but it's an important one as it will help you keep your finances in check.
A Guide to Self-Building
If you are new to self-building, or just want to see our thoughts on the steps involved in a self-build and what the process is, then download our guide.