Building a home to your own design is a rewarding alternative to buying off the shelf, but it is a significant project with a lot of moving parts. Understanding the stages helps you plan with confidence. Here is how a custom new build typically progresses in Devon and Somerset.
Finding and assessing a plot
The plot shapes everything that follows. Before committing, it is worth checking access, services (water, electricity, drainage), ground conditions, flood risk and any planning history. A plot with outline planning permission already in place reduces risk considerably.
Design and planning
Working with an architect, you develop a design that suits the site, your needs and your budget, then submit it for planning permission. Detailed drawings and a structural design follow, along with Building Regulations approval. Getting the design and specification settled before starting on site is the single biggest factor in keeping a build on budget.
Construction stages
A new build moves through groundworks and foundations, the structural shell and roof to make it weathertight, then first fix (the electrics, plumbing and carpentry hidden in walls and floors), plastering, second fix, and finally fit-out and decoration. Each stage needs to be coordinated and inspected before the next begins.
Warranties and handover
A new home should come with a structural warranty and full sign-off from building control. At handover you should receive certificates, guarantees and operating information for the building. You can see examples of our work on our new build developments page.
Talk to Kingsleigh Homes
Whether it is an insurance claim, a new build or an extension across Somerset and Devon, we are happy to give honest, expert advice.
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