Building a house can be a complex process, and it is important that you get professional advice, including:
Legal Advice
Legal advice should be sought from a qualified Solicitor. Click here for some key contacts.
Architectural Advice
If you are intending to design and build your house, advice from a qualified Architect can be of assistance. Many manufacturers of “kit houses” will offer Architectural services as part of the purchase price and can often provide a choice of house designs that can be readily adapted before construction.
A list of qualified Architects can be found at the Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland.
Advice from a Chartered Surveyor/ Valuer
Advice from a Chartered Surveyor can help identify ground and building conditions, future maintenance costs and safety issues. Many lenders will also require that you have a valuation of the property produced by an approved valuer.
The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors in Scotland (RICS) provides information on Chartered Surveyors across Scotland.
Advice on appointing a builder
If you are employing a building contractor to build your house for you, the Chartered Institute of Builders recommend that you make a few checks before you start the build process. These include, looking at examples of the builders work, checking they show a clear address and telephone number (not just a mobile) on their invoices, checking out their insurance cover, whether they are VAT registered and whether they will provide a contract or guarantee for the job.
Remember, you can speak to your local trading standards office to see whether any complaints have been made to them about the builder you are considering.
For further information, contact The Chartered Institute of Building.