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Build your knowledge and expertise about self-build with our guide to creating your dream home

Prepare to embrace the self-build challenge

There is lots of online information available from independent organisations, like NaCSBA, that people can access to decide if self-build is for them. Our self-build database can help to locate available plots in South Gloucestershire. We can also provide help and advice on starting the self-build process. Our checklist below suggests some actions for aspiring self-builders to consider.

Step one

Calculate costs

Budgeting is the most essential part of your project. Beyond construction costs, consider hidden cost elements, like rental costs, storage and site set-up. Many self-builders ensure a budget has a contingency to manage overruns or unforeseen issues – this is one of the most significant risks. Remember that you may be able to claim back VAT, so investigate this opportunity upfront.

Step two

Find your plot

The budget that you have available will define how much you can spend on a plot. But also consider broader lifestyle issues. Is it essential that you are near work? Do you want to be close to bus routes to give access to pubs, shops, and restaurants? Is there childcare nearby? Although our self-build database can identify buying opportunities, self-builders need to weigh the pros and cons of plot locations.

Step three

Engage an architect or designer

Although you can choose a package supplier, a qualified architect or designer is the starting point for most self-builders. They can help bring your ideas and vision to life, ad help with the decision-making process (e.g., for planning), timelines, and how far your budget could go to deliver the home of your dreams. Before appointing someone, remember to ask for their experience and examples of their work. Consider approaching more than one architect or designer. 

Step four

Obtain planning permission

Many architects / designers can also prepare and submit a planning application on your behalf. They will typically have experience working with a local planning authority and will also need to apply for CIL relief for self-builders (part 1) and commencement notice.

Once obtained, ensure that others in your construction team (like builder or landscaper) are aware of any pre-commencement conditions before spades go into the ground. Do not overlook building control approval.

Step five

Select a build route

There are different options to get your dream home built. First, a packaging company, that may offer customisable standard homes or bespoke design options, can guide self-builders through the process. Second, using a main contractor or professional project manager, who could be the architect. Third, project manage yourself if you fancy a challenge (and have the skills and experience). A critical decision is selecting a construction system – usually either brick and block or timber frame.

Step six

Getting underway

Usually, self-builders rely on their team to sort out site preparation, including groundwork and foundation pours. Like a significant house extension, there are four further stages to reach build completion;

  1. Making the house weather-tight with roof, windows, and doors installed;
  2. first fix, including electrics, plumbing, and carpentry;
  3. second fix, completing the installation of services after plastering;
  4. final decorations and snag resolution.

Step seven

Moving in!

But first, remember to obtain the completion certificate from Building Control, submit part 2 to LA for CIL relief for self-builders (within 6 months of completion) and, where appropriate, make an all-important VAT reclaim.