Alexphd1

Hi, (1st post). After doing a selfbuild in the UK I am looking into the idea of a selfbuild in majorca (i have found a bit of ground). Is it actually possible to do selfbuild everything myself no builder or does it not work like that in Spain?

Rosemary

Hi and a warm welcome to the Spanish forum on BE. Myself and Fred James are the moderators for the Spanish forums whilst BEVS moderates Europe. Moderators are there to ensure that the site runs smoothly within the rules of BE. This is so that members gain the information that they are looking for and find their experiences on the forums to be friendly and worthwhile.

Problems and complaints should always be addressed to a moderator who will look into the matter and deal with it efficiently and fairly. Our members who post in the Spain Forums are usually friendly and helpful with a wealth of knowledge about the issues of living in Spain. I hope that you enjoy your time participating in the forums.

Please let me know if you need any further help.

Rosemary

spainrico

I am not an expert but I can forsee problems ie only approved electricians and plumbers can issue 'bulletins' to get the services connected to the main supplies. Although maybe they can be inspected by approved persons and certification issued after you have iinstalled. Before you buy the land I think you need a thorough investigation and research with your local town hall. Good luck

lurchio

As above, just check and double check everything in relation to the land, Spain is littered with horror stories of dream homes being demolished or at least long legal battles to 'legalise' the preceding Mayors dodgy deal with an ex pat. Also planning stuff is different in that the town hall takes a 'cut' of the final cost as a fee, this can be 5%, but varies on area. Good luck to you with your plans, just tread carefully and explore all legal and planning matters fully before you commit. Sorry if its granny sucking eggs time, but of all the alledged corruption in Spain, land and property development is right up there!

Fred James

Are you intending to buy a plot in the country or in a recognised urban area?

Either way you will need to employ an architect to draw up the plans to submit it to the local town hall planning department to get a building licence before you start any building work.

spainrico

Another thought..........if the construction is not 'permanent' ie bricks and mortar but was s ay a wooden frame then I believe in at least some areas the rules are different. I remember a debate a long time ago on this - it hinged on if the foundations were a concrete raft but the house was wooden it may be easier to get permission. But as Fred ays a local architect and town hall permissions essential.

olivefarmer

I suspect that the fees you will pay to the town hall will be the same whether you build it yourself or pay a builder. You will of course make substantial savings on the builders labour costs.

Alexphd1

Much appreciated on the help. Does anybody know a good architect in the cala'd'or, mallorca area?