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Q&As
Novice Question
Looking for some advice….
I have purchased a plot and plan to build on it and semi-retire within the next five to ten years.
I have enough funds to get the foundations in and a timber frame up and wind and weather tight, but not enough to complete inside without borrowing, which I am reluctant to do.
My plan is to sell my business and current home on retiring and move into the new property. I am hoping that, if my business continues to be profitable, I will be able to release some funds each year to work on the internal fit out of the new property.
Is this a reasonable expectation, or would I be better just to save for the next few years until I have enough funds to complete the project in one go?
How would a timber frame kit, made wind and weathertight, behave without being occupied? This is a relatively safe area, with low crime rates..
How would the local authority planners look at a prolonged build, would I be expected to complete within a certain timescale, once I had informed them that I had commenced works?
How would the revenue look at a VAT reclaim on a prolonged build, are there limits on how long the build can take?
Answers
Many self builders like the idea of progressing gradually, using their labour and resources as and when they are available. There is no requirement to build at a specific pace from a practical point of view, but those who choose to go more slowly must be prepared to manage site logistics for longer periods.
If you are going to halt the process at wind and watertight then you must be clear about its definition. To some this might mean roofing felt over trusses with fly (temporary) battening only. However, this would not be sufficient in your case. You should plan to have your covering and external cladding fitted to your timber frame – with the window apertures either sealed with temporary boarding or the physical windows installed. Anything less will leave your timber frame too exposed, especially if you are talking about several years.
If you plan to move in while completing the interior, you will definitely need the exterior finished and a basic level of hygiene internally to include a compliant electrical consumer unit with some circuitry, as well as a water supply and drainage connections for a kitchen sink and a working toilet. With these requirements you should be able to get a temporary habitation certificate from building control – but you should enquire locally for guidance here and any other minimum standards.
The interior can then take as long as you like. The planners should not worry unless you have a conditioned timetable for completion or you are causing a long-term nuisance to other people. However, your VAT reclaim is likely to be capped when you move in – what’s known as beneficial occupation. You will then have three months to make your VAT reclaim and this can only be done once.
Tim Doherty (Build It Expert)
Hi,
If you are thinking of self-build we can maybe help. The Wee House Co. offers a classic range which includes Studio, 1 and 2 Bedroom but we also build bespoke wee houses so long as they fit with the appearance of a wee house and are single storey. Included in our price is a 3 piece fitted bathroom and fitted kitchen. The houses are built in our factory in Ayrshire and then transported via trailers and placed onto the foundations.
If we can be of any assistance, please get in touch. The website is http://www.theweehousecompany.co.uk. Speak to Louise Wightman Brand Developer or Jennifer Higgins, Founder.
