Step by step: how to start building a house?

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Preparing to build a house is a complicated and time-consuming endeavor that requires detailed planning, proper permits and a thorough understanding of the construction process. In this article, we outline stage by stage what needs to be done before building a house, step by step, so that the whole process goes smoothly and without problems. We will cover both legal issues and practical aspects of construction to create a complete picture of this major undertaking. Our goal is to provide reliable information that will help the reader make informed decisions about building their own home.

Selecting a plot of land and analyzing the location

The first step before building a house step by step is to choose a suitable plot of land. The choice of the location on which our future house will stand is of great importance both for the comfort of living and for formal issues related to construction. It is worth paying attention to several key aspects:

Factors to consider when choosing a plot of land

Location:

Infrastructure: Make sure the area has the necessary infrastructure, such as roads, public transportation, schools, stores and medical facilities.

Neighborhood: Consider what your priorities are when it comes to the neighborhood. Do you prefer a quiet neighborhood or proximity to the city center?

Availability of utilities: Check whether the plot has access to basic utilities such as electricity, water, gas and sewer.

Legal conditions: Before buying a plot of land, check the zoning plan and the Local Development Plan (LDP) for the area. These documents determine what types of development are allowed in a given location.

Soil analysis and site conditions

The next step is to analyze the soil. For this purpose, it is worth hiring a geologist to assess the bearing capacity of the soil, groundwater level and other relevant parameters.

Decision to purchase a plot of land

After carefully analyzing the above factors and consulting with experts, you can make an informed decision to purchase a plot of land for the construction of a house.

Obtain the necessary permits and documentation

After selecting a suitable plot of land, the next step before building a house step by step is to obtain the necessary permits and gather documentation. This is a stage that requires a lot of paperwork, but completing it in accordance with the regulations will speed up the construction process and protect against possible problems in the future.

Construction documentation

Technical conditions: it is necessary to obtain technical conditions for connection to the power, water, gas and sewage networks. Such information can be obtained from the relevant utility companies.

Construction design: The design of the house must comply with the guidelines of the zoning plan and meet the technical conditions. It is worthwhile to have it done by a professional architect, who will take into account all the specific requirements and preferences of the investor.

Building permit application: The main documents required to obtain a building permit are a construction project, a statement of the right to dispose of the property and a decision on zoning (if required).

Official procedures

Submission of application: An application for a building permit must be submitted to the appropriate office (district or city office). All collected documents are attached to the application.

Waiting time: The application approval procedure can take up to several months. During this time, the office has the right to ask for completion of missing documents or clarifications.

Decision: After receiving a positive decision, you have to wait another 14 days (time for any third-party appeals), after which the decision becomes final.

Financial planning and budgeting

Building a house is an investment that requires precise financial planning. Despite the large cost, proper budget management avoids financial problems at later stages of the project.

Estimating construction costs

Once we know how big a house we want to build and have the design ready, we can start estimating costs. There are many factors that affect the final cost of building a house:

  1. Land cost: The price of a plot can vary depending on the location, availability of utilities and the size and shape of the plot.
  2. Design costs: The price of the construction project and the cost of making the necessary connections.
  3. Construction materials: The price of construction materials may vary depending on the quality and current market prices.
  4. Executive costs: Construction work includes the cost of labor and professional services (electricians, plumbers, etc.).

Choice of financing sources

If you have savings that's great, but most people opt for a mortgage. It's worth comparing offers from different banks and choosing the most favorable one in terms of interest rates and repayment terms.

Monitor the budget

During the construction of a house, it is important to monitor expenses and compare them with the original cost estimate. Small deviations are normal, but large budget overruns may indicate the need to reassess and make changes to the plan.

Selecting a contractor and organizing construction work

Another key step before building a house step by step is the selection of a reliable contractor and the organization of construction work. The right contractor is a guarantee of quality and timely completion of the project.

How to choose a good contractor?

Choosing a contractor is a decision that will have a huge impact on the quality and speed of construction. Here are some tips that can help you choose:

Recommendations: It is worth asking friends who have built houses for recommendations of construction companies.

Experience: Check what kind of houses the company has built before. It's a good idea to see live projects and talk to homeowners.

Contract: All aspects of cooperation with the contractor should be carefully defined in the contract. Pay attention to the schedule of work, remuneration and warranty terms.

Organization of construction work

Before construction work begins, it is a good idea to plan the entire process carefully.

Schedule: Together with the contractor, create a schedule for construction work that is realistic and in line with your budget.

Supervision: Visit the construction site regularly to monitor the progress of the work and check that everything is going according to plan.

Flexibility: Home construction is a dynamic process where unexpected situations may arise that require quick response and adjustment of plans.

Completion of construction and technical acceptance

Once all construction work is completed, the stage of technical acceptance and obtaining the necessary approvals for the use of the house follows.

Technical acceptance

Technical acceptance is a process in which the building inspector verifies the compliance of the completed works with the construction project and the provisions of the construction law. This stage is crucial, as the result determines the obtaining of a permit to use the house. During technical acceptance, attention is paid to:

Compliance with the project: It is checked whether the house was built in accordance with the approved construction project.

Technical condition: The inspection includes an assessment of the quality of construction of the various elements of the building, such as foundations, walls, roof, installations (electrical, water, gas).

Safety: Checking that the building meets all safety standards (fire, electrical, etc.).

Post-construction formalities

As-built documentation: Upon completion of construction, gather all documents confirming the compliance of the completed work with the project and permits (acceptance reports, as-built inventory).

Notificationof completion of construction: You must notify the completion of construction at the relevant office with the inclusion of a set of documents.

Occupancy permit: After inspection, the construction supervisor will issue an occupancy permit for the house, which means you can move in.

Summary

Starting to build a house is a complex process that requires careful planning, gathering the right documents and obtaining permits. It is important that each step before building a house step by step is well thought out and consulted with experts. Choosing the right plot of land, a reliable contractor and carefully monitoring the budget and progress of the work are the keys to the success of this huge undertaking. Remember that building a house is not only a huge challenge, but also an investment in the future, which, with the right approach, will bring much satisfaction and joy.