If you are planning your own project here’s everything you need to know for a successful and stress-free experience
Architect
Your choice of architect should be able to translate an effective design into your personal style and be someone you feel comfortable working with. RIBA (The Royal Institute of British Architects) has a useful Find an Architect tool to help you search. Alternatively, ask around for recommendations and check social media for local architects showcasing their work. Look in the area of your plot for any new homes you like and talk to the owners. A local architect might be friendly with the planning authority and may be able to recommend local builders they have worked with. Be sure to view any of their projects before taking them on and ask if you can speak to previous clients, too.
Building Regulations
Building Regs are a set of standards designed to ensure a property is safe and comfortable to live in and, increasingly, energy efficient and mitigating its contribution to carbon emissions. They apply for the majority of construction work and if you’re building a new home, you will need to appoint a building inspector, who will ensure that your project meets Building Regulations.
Contracts
While not a legal requirement, a written contract is designed to protect both you and your builder and create a document to refer to for any disputes that arise during the build. A contract ensures everyone knows what’s expected during the project and it should cover everything from the payment terms and schedule of work to considerations such as health and safety and insurances. There are many forms of standard building contracts available. Good examples to use are published by the Federation of Master Builders and RIBA.
Design brief
Before looking for an architect, get a design brief together that encompasses everything you’d like to achieve. It is crucial that you communicate your priorities and what you hope to get from the finished project. Include pictures of houses, interiors and landscapes you like, and your reasons for building, your budget, ideal size of house, plus info such as the number of bedrooms and bathrooms required. Detail who will be living in the house and their ages plus any must-have features such as a garage, playroom or downstairs bedroom. Also inform them of any planning conditions that you may already be aware of.
Energy efficiency
Making your house as energy efficient as possible should be high on your agenda when designing your new home. If you want to achieve Passivhaus standards, your home will need to include very high levels of insulation and airtightness, extremely high-performance windows and a mechanical ventilation system with super-efficient heat
