In this blog post, we will look at 10 things you will need to consider if you are thinking about planning permission for a self-build project. Of course, there are a number of important aspects to consider in your self-build. But, with the right advice and direction, it’s likely to be a fantastic experience and one you’ll remember for a long time!
1. Visit Self-Build Events
One of the first steps is to take stock of the market. Talk to people and fully appreciate what it is you’re going to be getting yourself into. Events and exhibitions are great places to go – you’ll soon get an idea of the direction you’re going to take and how ambitious you’re going to be visiting one of these, alongside other self-builders.
2. Budget
Of course, you’ll need to know what kind of money is available for your self-build project. Set a realistic budget, but always factor in a contingency to allow for unexpected expenditure. Consult the appropriate independent financial advisor to ensure you are making the most of any deals, funds or rates that are available to you.
3. Source of Finance
There are generally three ways of funding a self-build project:
- Using savings
- Selling your existing home
- Borrowing the money: You will still generally need a sizeable deposit, but this is a popular option.
4. Space
Deciding what sort of space you are looking for depends on what you’re developing, your priorities and requirements. Is outdoor space important? Do you need extra space for outbuildings, sheds and garages? Do you have an ideal view in mind? Setting these parameters early on in the process will determine what kind of land you look for.
5. Sourcing Land
There are a number of ways to go about finding land, even before you apply for any sort of self-build planning permission. There are online search databases, and the usual online sources also list self-build plots. Local auctions are a good place to go, as are high-quality maps of areas in which land may be neglected or untended. Local knowledge is a massive advantage in this area – the Self-Build Portal is a useful resource.
6. Self-Build Planning Permission?
It goes without saying that land with existing planning permission sells for a higher value, so if you have bought a bargain piece of land it’s likely self-build planning permission will need to be sought. Initially, check if the land has outline planning permission – in which permission has initially been granted for a new structure without knowing the specifics of size, design and layout. It is vital a planning application is drafted correctly and the requirements involved are fully appreciated and understood. The experience of solicitors such as Kingsley Smith makes a big difference when it comes to applying for planning permission.
7. Where Will You Live?
While you’re building your property, you will, of course, need somewhere to live if you have already sold your previous house. In an ideal world, you could stay in your existing property. But, depending on the nature of your self–build and the state of your finances, this may not be possible. One of the most usual and flexible options is to rent, but many people opt for static caravans or cabins on site to enable them to progress with the build as often as possible.
8. Assistance
If it’s the first time you’ve completed such a project, it’s likely that any self-build you carry out will have to be assisted by friends and family, and, if possible, people who have completed their own dream homes. The more hands on deck, the better. Although it’s a good idea to have a timeframe in mind, it can’t be underestimated how much time these projects take.
9. Cables, Communications, Drainage & Access
The land you buy and apply for self-build planning permission on needs to adhere to certain criteria in order for it to be suitable to build on. There are a number of options and creative solutions available, but fundamentally for a piece of land to become a building plot, it must have vehicular access. Hard standing for offloading is also generally required. You will also need to think about water, drainage and how easy it’s going to be to get electricity, communications and other cables to the site.
10. Dealing with Nature
If building on a previously undeveloped piece of land, it’s often the most appealing aspects of the area that can cause the most issues. Adverse conditions such as sandy soils or rocky ground can affect building suitability, and if there are a number of trees on the land, you may have to deal with Tree Preservation Orders.
Committing to a self-build on a fresh piece of land will, at first, feel like a daunting prospect. With the right planning, approach and frame of mind, however, it’s a completely achievable prospect for many people. You will need to seek the right advice and guidance. Solicitors like Kingsley Smith can guide you through the self-build planning permission process and ensure you are receiving the very best advice possible – contact us today for more information.
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