What is Self-build?
A general guide to self-build for those wondering what it’s all about

Daily Telegraph Homebuilding & Renovating Awards 2011

Why Self-build?
Design and cost savings are key reasons why people self-build...

FAQs for Beginners
What is life like as a self-builder, and what are the practicalities?

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My Building Project - Estimating Service

Managing your own self-build project and looking for a breakdown of exactly how much it will all cost?

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planning your project

Practical advice from the UK’s leading self-build experts to help you bring in your project on time, on budget.

FINANCE

An archive of Finance features taken from Homebuilding & Renovating magazine including financial advice on all aspects of your self-build project, from initial funding to budgeting to VAT returns.

How to Reclaim VAT on a Self-build or Conversion Project
As you don’t have to pay VAT if you’re building a new house from a developer, HMRC have made allowances for self-builders and converters to enjoy the same VAT-free benefits. Here's some advice on what you can and can't reclaim.

View all finance features...

If you're new to self-build take a look at the Beginner's Guide which includes The H&R Average Build Cost Guide.

DESIGN ADVICE

Fresh ideas to help you create the perfect home for your needs. Also, how to overcome any potential site design problems and an in-depth look at different design styles.

How to Build a Sustainable Home
Renewables may grab the headlines but, in reality, the key fundamentals of a successful green house remain what they have always been — low-energy design principles and investment in the building fabric. By Michael Holmes.

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PLANNING ADVICE

Advice on planning your project including finance, making full use of your space, choosing the right materials, creating a schedule and all you need to know about tax and VAT.

Plots: When Nature Gets in the Way
While it is often the plot’s natural attributes that make it so appealing, they can create a lot of issues. David Snell tackles problematic trees then, overleaf, difficult ground conditions.

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WHAT SHOULD I PAY?

Compare and contrast and a look at average costs for your project. Plus comprehensive guides to what to expect when budgeting for your self-build.

Detailed Cost Breakdowns
Self-builder David Snell's series on project costs starts with the cost of finding and buying a plot and goes on to cover every aspect of self-build, from foundations to drainage to roofing an more, with a detailed cost breakdown for each stage, including VAT reclaims.

View all what should I pay? features...

SPECIFICATION ADVICE

A complete buyer's guide to everything from lighting to home security and flooring to kitchens.Compare different sytems to decide which one is right for your project.

Choosing Insulation
In our series examining key self-build decisions, Mark Brinkley demystifies the baffling process of specifying insulation with a brief look at under floor insulation, cavity wall insulation, insulated wall systems, roof insulation and more.

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PRACTICAL ADVICE

Easy-to-follow step-by-step guides to everything from 'How to fit a wireless burglar alarm' to 'How to fit a plasterboard ceiling'. Plus expert advice from seasoned self-build experts.

How to Self-build in the Countryside
Claire Lloyd explains how to go about getting the good life by building or renovating a home in the countryside, and why the practical issues of living off mains may not be the big drawback you might imagine.

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PROJECT MANAGEMENT

From spotting and solving problems during your project to expert advice on avoiding the pitfalls before you begin. As well as deciding which type of project management is right for you.

20 Essential Rules for Self-build Success
You’ll get lots of well-meaning advice when you start your project. But here’s our collection of the little gems that really will make things easier. Including advice on budget, plots, finding tradesmen, sourcing materials and more.