Simple Check List Before You Start Building In Your Yard!
Building in your back yard a useful checklist
Building in your back yard can be an excellent way of getting the additional space you need, without having to relocate. Moving home can be very stressful. So, if you are happy living in your current property, you probably want to avoid moving on, if at all possible. This is where building in your outside space can be a good solution.
If you are thinking of doing this, and you want your building project to be successful, you need to make sure that you plan effectively. This helps you to recognize what needs to be done, and to make sure that the project stays on track. We are going to take you through a simple checklist of what you need to consider as part of the planning process.
1. Having a realistic budget in place
It’s vital that you know what financial resources you have in place, before the project gets underway. If you do not plan your finances effectively, costs could end up spiraling out of control. If you are borrowing money to help finance the project, you need to make sure you have this in place. Remember that you should not borrow more than you can comfortably afford to repay and it’s usually not a good idea to borrow more than the value that is being added to your property by the completion of the project.
2. Making sure you have permission to build
You do not always need permission to build on your property; it depends on the type and size of structure you are building. It’s a good idea to check before you build though. If you do not have the permission that you need you could be asked to return your property to its original condition, at some point. This would cost you money and would cause great inconvenience. You can see why you would not want this to happen.
3. Knowing what obstacles you face
If you are building in your back yard, you need to know what obstacles you could be facing. This usually means having surveys carried out. Remember, that you do not just need to know about obstacles that are above ground; you also need to know about underground services, such as water pipes and gas mains. If you hit a water pipe or a gas main while you are digging for the build, it could end up being a costly, and potentially dangerous, experience.
4. Making sure the timing is right
Even if you are not managing the building project yourself, you need to make sure the timing is right for you. If you have a big event coming up in the family, such as a wedding, do you really want to handle both things at the same time? You also need to think about whether you have any holidays away planned and if and when you may be facing a busy time in work.
Building in your back yard can be a very good idea, if you plan well. Hopefully, our checklist can help you to do this.
10 Comments
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michele
Since you first posted this we have decided to turn an extra room into a library.. before we even begin to draw out the room plan we have to check prices for materials and labor and then see exactly where we stand…
Lisa Brown
Permission to build is overlook by many, I think. Many assume if changes to the property are small, one does not need permission, but that may not be the case.
Sarah L
I live in a townhouse and can not do any of this.
Edye
Checklists can be a lifesaver! Thanks for sharing with your readers! 🙂
CJ
I’ sure most people don’t like being told what they can build or can’t build on their own property, but it’s important to get the permission and proper permits so that way no authority can force to have it torn down or find out having the building would somehow cause an unintended damage to the rest of the neighborhood…
Tamra Phelps
These are definitely important. You do not want to build something & be ordered to tear it down because you did not have permits.
Tamra Phelps
Good advice. You do not want to be the reason your neighbors have to evacuate while a gas line is repaired!
michele
Permits are very important when you plan on building an addition or even a second garage..It is wise to have all your info first before you prepare any plans…
CJ
These are all helpful tips. I believe there are many communities that require permission to build even if it is on your own property. I am sure most people wouldn’t think of that.