About DIY John Self Build

My Self Build

Although this is a DIY blog I would like to give an in site to my working life within the construction industry which has spanned over 40 years. As a school lad at 13 years old my weekend and summer holidays were spent playing sports or helping my father as a plumbers apprentice .

Although my father did not want me to follow in his footsteps I liked the freedom and idea of not working in the same place everyday .At 17 my father agreed to allow me to work under his wing and gave me my 2nd job and that was the start of were I am now .

My father was a top class tradesman and showed me exactly how the job should be done. His philosophy was you only get paid for doing the job once so make sure you do it right first time.

The interesting aspect was that my father was very capable and could master most trades. The very first project lasted 12 months as the client was so happy with our heating installation that he requested two new bathrooms installations and then a new kitchen. Bedroom refits and replacement windows followed by redecoration new doors the list goes on to a complete refurb.

This stood me in good stead to branch out on my own eventually and what drove me to wanting to build my own home .

Building My Dream Home Journey

DIY Johns journey to building my dream home came around after selling my home in 2016 and buying a plot of land with detailed planning permission for a five bedroom house on a third of an acre .

This certainly opened my eyes and the realisation of the pitfalls became apparent as I had overlooked some very important aspects which are listed below. My personal mistakes were rising costs ,funding and no Architec to deal with building control. .

Funding once a project has started is exceedingly difficult without a track record and you are penalized with higher interest rates due to added risk for the lender.It is imperative to have an offer of funding in principle before you start

SelfBuild Pitfalls Pros and Cons

Know the pitfalls involved in a self build

Self-building a home can be an exciting and rewarding project, but it comes with significant challenges. Here are the key pitfalls to avoid and the essential aspects you need in place before starting:

Services water and electric in place prior to starting is a major asset as I found out when I had to transport water to the site and buy diesel for the generator

Pitfalls to Avoid

Poor Budgeting – Costs can quickly spiral out of control due to unexpected expenses, material price increases, or changes in design.
Inadequate Planning Permission – Failing to secure the necessary approvals can lead to delays, fines, or even demolition.
Underestimating Timelines – Delays due to weather, supply chain issues, or labor shortages can push the project far beyond your expected completion date.
Hiring the Wrong Contractors – Working with inexperienced or unreliable builders can lead to poor workmanship and additional costs.
Ignoring Site Surveys – Not conducting thorough ground and soil surveys can lead to costly foundation problems.
Overlooking Legal and Insurance Requirements – Missing key legal checks or lacking proper insurance can leave you exposed to risks.
Poor Project Management – Without effective coordination, miscommunication can lead to costly mistakes and inefficiencies.

Essential Aspects to Have in Place Before You Start

Clear Budget & Contingency Fund – Have a well-planned budget with at least a 10-20% contingency for unexpected costs.
Planning Permission & Building Regulations – Secure all approvals from local authorities before any work begins.
Detailed Design & Architect Plans – A well-thought-out design reduces costly mid-build changes.
Land Acquisition & Surveys – Ensure the plot is suitable for building through thorough land and soil surveys.
Reliable Contractors & Tradespeople – Research and vet builders, electricians, and plumbers to ensure high-quality work.
Legal & Insurance Coverage – Obtain self-build insurance, structural warranties, and any required legal permits.
Project Management Strategy – Decide whether you’ll manage the build yourself or hire a project manager.
Material Procurement Plan – Plan ahead to avoid shortages and price fluctuations.
Realistic Timeline – Account for potential delays and set a feasible completion date.
Utility Connections & Site Access – Ensure water, electricity, and drainage are available and accessible.

Building your own five-bedroom house is a massive but rewarding project. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

Step 1: Planning & Design

Define Your Budget – Consider land costs, materials, labor (if needed), permits, and unexpected expenses.
Choose a Design – Work with an architect or use house design software to create blueprints.
Secure Permits & Approvals – Check local building regulations and apply for necessary permits.
Find a Suitable Plot – Ensure the land is stable, accessible, and has essential utilities like water, electricity, and sewage.

Step 2: Site Preparation & Foundations

Clear the Land – Remove trees, rocks, and debris.
Excavate & Level the Ground – Ensure a stable, level surface for the foundation.
Lay the Foundation – Options include slab-on-grade, crawl space, or full basement.
Install Drainage & Plumbing – Set up the underground pipes before pouring concrete.

Step 3: Framing & Structural Work

Build the Frame – Construct walls, floors, and roof trusses using timber or steel.
Install Roofing – Use shingles, tiles, or metal roofing for protection.
Add Exterior Walls – Brick, wood, or siding materials can be installed at this stage.
Frame Interior Walls – Create room layouts according to the plan.

Step 4: Utilities & Insulation

Electrical & Plumbing – Run wiring, install breaker boxes, and set up plumbing fixtures.
HVAC System – Install heating, ventilation, and air conditioning.
Insulation & Drywall – Use foam, fiberglass, or other insulation materials to maintain temperature efficiency.

Step 5: Interior & Exterior Finishing

Flooring & Paint – Lay down hardwood, tiles, or carpet and paint walls.
Install Fixtures – Add kitchen cabinets, bathroom sinks, toilets, and built-in wardrobes.
Windows & Doors – Fit energy-efficient windows and doors.
Landscaping & Driveway – Finish the outdoor area with a lawn, pathways, and a driveway.

Step 6: Final Checks & Moving In

Inspection & Compliance – Get professionals to inspect the house for safety and regulation compliance.
Furnishing & Decor – Move in furniture, appliances, and décor.
Final Touches – Fix minor issues, clean up the site, and get ready to move in.

DIY Tips & Considerations

✅ Hire professionals for complex tasks – Electrical, plumbing, and structural work should be done by experts if you lack experience.
✅ Use quality materials – Cutting corners on materials can lead to future issues.
✅ Stay organized – Keep a project timeline and budget tracker to avoid delays and overspending.
✅ Safety first – Always use proper safety gear and follow guidelines.

DIY John