CHECKLIST

Get a solid idea of whether the site you’re considering for your self build has real potential by going through this checklist, broken down into 11 key areas. Note that some of these considerations may be more critical to your scheme’s success than others; and many of the points are equally applicable to conversion projects.

SITE SUITABILITY

JJJJJIs the plot large enough for the size of house you wish to build? Are local property values in tune with the kind of design you want? Could any adjoining and nearby uses be bad neighbours?

What’s the orientation like – will windows have light and outlook, and will the garden get sunshine? Does the site slope?

J If so, could this necessitate a split-level house or significant excavation (which may impact on construction costs)?

JJJJJ Would access be too steep

for deliveries and plant vehicles? Are there any obstacles, such as existing structures, trees, overhead cables and underground pipes? Who owns and is responsible for maintenance of the boundaries and access?

PLANNING STATUS

If the plot has existing planning consent…

Does it have full or outline permission in place?

J With full consent, is the design

and layout what you want to build?

J If outline, is there an indication in the permission as to what is likely to be approved?

Should the answer to either of the above be ‘no’, then all of the points for ‘no current permission’ will apply.

When was planning consent granted (permission lasts for three years from that date)?

If the plot has no current planning permission…

Is the site within a development boundary defined in the Local Plan or Neighbourhood Plan?

J If not, are there circumstances that could enable you to build, such as a housing land supply shortfall, or a need to live on site for farming or another rural business?

Would a building on the plot fit in with the pattern of housing and prevailing character of the area?

JJ