self build?
Oct 22nd 2005, 3:12 pm
#1
Forum Regular
Thread Starter
Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 38
self build?
Who has gone through the self build?
All the pros and cons!
Do you have to employ specialised tradesmen for everything?
I believe (no mad comments please) that i could do the complete traditional build from scratch with a helping hand (maybe a bit more than the one hand though).
Seriously, what wouldnt i be allowed to do?
Oh by the way, i`m a plasterer! come bricky,roofer,tiler,joiner,........believe it or not cant do elec or gas though
All the pros and cons!
Do you have to employ specialised tradesmen for everything?
I believe (no mad comments please) that i could do the complete traditional build from scratch with a helping hand (maybe a bit more than the one hand though).
Seriously, what wouldnt i be allowed to do?
Oh by the way, i`m a plasterer! come bricky,roofer,tiler,joiner,........believe it or not cant do elec or gas though
Oct 22nd 2005, 8:57 pm
#2
BE Enthusiast
Joined: Apr 2005
Posts: 448
Re: self build?
I'm fairly certain that you need a Registered Builder to oversee the build. You will be required to get a building permit and to use licensed sparkies and plumbers, etc. This is where the Registered Builder will keep you right.
Own build is a really great way to go, especially if you have your own design in mind and want something different to your neighbours. The project builders determine the design and materials used, albeit that you can choose your own bricks and tiles etc within a budget range, and any changes to these usually results in massive fees.
We took the Owner Builder route just last year and now have an amazing home which suits the needs of our family - lots of glass and decking to make the most of the views, large rooms with high ceilings, wool insulation, etc, etc. We could not have built this home with a project builder and certainly not for the price that we did. Amongst our good friends, we have an electrician, a plumber, a tiler, a gyprocker and a painter so we were able to use their expertise (at a slightly reduced price) under the supervision of a Registered Builder. It was a great way to operate and we got an excellent result.
With project builders, you will not be in a position to determine which tradesmen untertake the work on your house. They have their own sub-contractors who often work under pressure and to timescales, so it can be a bit hit and miss.
Contact the MBA (Master Builders Association) for a list of Registered Builders in your area who take on the supervision of own builds. There may not be many around, but I am sure you will find someone who can point you in the right direction. Good luck.
Own build is a really great way to go, especially if you have your own design in mind and want something different to your neighbours. The project builders determine the design and materials used, albeit that you can choose your own bricks and tiles etc within a budget range, and any changes to these usually results in massive fees.
We took the Owner Builder route just last year and now have an amazing home which suits the needs of our family - lots of glass and decking to make the most of the views, large rooms with high ceilings, wool insulation, etc, etc. We could not have built this home with a project builder and certainly not for the price that we did. Amongst our good friends, we have an electrician, a plumber, a tiler, a gyprocker and a painter so we were able to use their expertise (at a slightly reduced price) under the supervision of a Registered Builder. It was a great way to operate and we got an excellent result.
With project builders, you will not be in a position to determine which tradesmen untertake the work on your house. They have their own sub-contractors who often work under pressure and to timescales, so it can be a bit hit and miss.
Contact the MBA (Master Builders Association) for a list of Registered Builders in your area who take on the supervision of own builds. There may not be many around, but I am sure you will find someone who can point you in the right direction. Good luck.
