Five things to sort out before you start building
Land papers, soil, drawings, budget and approvals — a short checklist for families planning a new home.
Building a house is one of the biggest decisions a family makes. A little preparation before the first excavation saves months later.
1. Check your land documents
Make sure the land ownership certificate, boundary measurements and road access match what is on the ground.
2. Understand your soil
Soil conditions affect the foundation design and the cost. A soil test on larger or sloping sites is money well spent.
3. Finish the drawings first
Starting construction with incomplete drawings is the most common cause of delays and extra cost. Approve the architectural, structural and services drawings before work begins.
4. Agree a realistic budget
Ask for a detailed bill of quantities, not just a rate per square foot, and keep a contingency for changes.
5. Plan for approvals
Your municipality’s building permit (naksa pass) takes time. Start the paperwork early so it doesn’t hold up the site.