Taking the decision to
build your house is just the first step in a long
process. There are a number of things that you will
have to do and will have to keep in mind while
building your house. Here are a few tips on the
procedures that you should follow while building your
house.
First and foremost you will have to find the finance to
build your house. You could approach your bank or a mortgage
company to provide you with the required money to complete
your house.
To decide how much finance you require you will have to
budget. While making a budget you could consult a professional
or do it yourself. Remember to budget for everything including
fencing, landscaping and essential appliances and furniture
within the house.
If finances are not a problem and you have a plan for the
house, then you will have to find a plot that fits your plot.
Or the other way to do it is to find the plot and then plan
the house to fit the plot. While making a plan keep in mind
the budget and the lifestyle that your family can afford. It
is easy to spend more than you have budgeted for. For this it
would be best to hire an architect or a home designer.
Once the plan is ready make a number of copies of the plan,
as you will have to give copies of the plan to the various
offices that will approve your house and finance it. Many sub
trades would like a copy of the plan to give you an estimate
of the cost of their job.
Many subdivisions decide the color; type, roof style and
size of your house and some divisions do not have any
restrictions at all. While the plan permit is being processed,
ask for quotations from reputable companies for all sub
trades. Having more that one quote will help you select the
best deal and using a well know firm will ensure that there is
no problem later on and if it does arise they will respond
immediately. Quotes must include good quality material and the
services required.
Once the subdivision approves your plan you can apply for a
residential building permit. Apply at the City Hall with a
copy of your plan and a plot plan. A plot plan shows where
your house will be located and its position. It normally takes
2 to 6 weeks for a permit to be issued. Along with the permit
you will be given certain conditions that have to be met
before and during construction of your house.
It is best to have a General Contractor who will oversee all
the work. The first trades that he will have to contact are
the Surveyors, the Framing Crew and Excavator. Inform the
electric company that you will need a temporary power
connection.
