How to Buy at an Auction
In this article we explain the tactics of the auction room as well as what to do if you’re successful

How to make your self-build site safe

Building in a Flood Zone
A home in a flood zone needs to be designed differently. Here we tell you how

Discussion Forum

Where to Live Whilst Self-building
Many self-builders live for months or even years in a mobile home. But is this necessary?

How to Get Planning Permission

Planning permission

A Guide to the New Permitted Development Rules
The rules on Permitted Development (PD) – what you can do to your house without needing planning approval – have recently changed. David Snell assesses whether it’s for better or worse

A Guide to the New Permitted Development Rules

Planning Permission: Do I have a chance?
Thinking of taking a punt on a plot but not sure of the planning angle? Sally Tagg assesses whether it’s worth pursuing — or if you should just walk away

 Do I have a chance?

How to Get Planning Permission for a Contemporary Home
Ken Dijksman assesses the current chances for self-builders who want to avoid period style design and reveals how to make a strong case

How to Get Planning Permission for a Contemporary Home

How to get Planning Approval for Modern Homes
Controversial home design schemes are almost certain to muster controversy when it comes to getting them through planning

How to get Planning Approval for Modern Homes

How to get Planning Permission
Why is it that one person gets planning permission and his neighbour gets refused? Planning Consultant Ken Dijksman explains how best to maximise your chances

How to get Planning Permission

Understanding Planning Permission
The planning system can be complex, and understanding reasons for refusal can be frustrating. Planning consultant Sally Tagg looks in depth at the planning process and its various stages

Understanding Planning Permission

Planning Permission: Case Studies
The planning system can be complex, and understanding reasons for refusal can be frustrating

 Case Studies

Advice on Planning
Planning permission is a potential minefield — but if you know how to play the game, you can use it to your advantage, says Ken Dijksman

Advice on Planning

How to Get Planning Approval
Many would-be self-builders fall foul of the planning system at the first hurdle. Planning consultant Sally Tagg gives an insider’s guide to everything you need to know to sail through the process

How to Get Planning Approval