Mark Stevenson

Mark Stevenson

Mark Stevenson has worked as a construction professional for over 30 years and following an extensive career in housebuilding. He is currently chief operating officer for Custom Build Homes and chair of the National Custom and Self Build Association. He previously worked as managing director for Potton, helping self builders build their own homes.


Whilst Mark describes himself as a ‘professional builder’ as a result of his career in housebuilding and timber building system manufacturing, he has specialist knowledge of timber construction and extensive expertise in finding land and project management.


He regularly shares his knowledge at Homebuilding & Renovating Shows and and coaches self builders about how to build their own homes. Aside from Mark’s professional career, his skills also extend to practical building knowledge as a skilled joiner, hands-on renovator and serial self-builder of his own development projects.


He is also Vice Chair of industry body, the Structural Timber Association.




 


Latest articles by Mark Stevenson

open plan oak frame kitchen in farmhouse style

Timber frame vs SIPs: Weighing up which is best for your build

By Mark Stevenson published

Looking at timber frame vs SIPs is increasingly common amongst both self builders as well as those looking to extend – but which construction method is best for you? Expert Mark Stevenson is here to explain everything you need to know

Timber Frame
large conservatory attached to old stone house

Conservatory building regulations: Do you need them?

By Mark Stevenson published

Confused about conservatory building regulations? Find out the answers to all your questions in our expert guide to the relevant rules and regulations

Conservatory
foul drainage pipes being installed

How to install your mains drainage and services

By Mark Stevenson last updated

While it might not be the glamorous part to a build, our self build expert Mark Stevenson gets stuck into explained what you need to know about installing your mains drainage and services

Self Build
close up of hands laying a brick wall using a blue spirit level and trowel

A guide to building with masonry — cavities, wall ties, process and more

By Mark Stevenson published

Our self-build expert looks at building with masonry to construct the superstructure of your project

Walls & Ceilings
hands holding model house over architect plans

Timber vs masonry: Which building system should you choose?

By Mark Stevenson published

With timber and masonry the most popular methods for building houses and extensions, how do they compare when it comes to efficiency, safety and environment?

Extension
bedroom loft conversion with white walls and yellow colour decor

Loft conversion building regulations: What you need to know

By Mark Stevenson published

Although a loft conversion may not require planning permission, you are still bound by building regulations. Here's why and which Approved Documents will apply the most

Loft Conversion
architect drawings with pipes, connectors and hard hat on top of them

Building Regulations Part H: Our expert guide to drainage installations

By Mark Stevenson published

Our expert Mark Stevenson explains what you need to know about part H of the building regulations so you can get your drainage right and avoid costly mistakes on your project

Planning
A bright and spacious timber frame living room with expansive glazing

I'm a professional builder and this is how I manage a project timeline

By Mark Stevenson published

Mark Stevenson looks at how a project timeline is managed and what tools the professionals use to make sure the build gets started, and finished, on time

Self Build
oak frame house with white render and timber cladding

Timber frame construction: Everything you need to know

By Mike Cruickshank, Mark Stevenson last updated

Timber frame construction is one of the best options for self builders wanting speedy build times and a beautiful, energy efficient home. We explain all to help you decide if this is the right route for you

Timber Frame
Demolition of an old house

Planning Permission to Demolish and Rebuild: What to Know

By Ken Dijksman, Michael Holmes, Mark Stevenson published

Planning Hub Understanding the rules around securing planning permission to demolish and rebuild is essential to make sure you don't waste money on a plot you can't develop

Planning Hub
Period-Style Home in a Conservation Area

Do Designated Areas Make Good Building Plots?

By Sally Tagg, Mark Stevenson, Ken Dijksman published

Planning Hub Plots in designated areas, such as an AONB or Conservation Area, hold strong appeal to self builders - but can you actually get permission from the local planners to build?

Planning Hub
extension-project-with-trees-on-site

Planning Conditions: The Ultimate Guide

By David Snell, Ken Dijksman, Mark Stevenson published

Planning Hub Don’t overlook the attached planning conditions in the euphoria of gaining planning approval. Failure to discharge conditions can invalidate the permission for your build — ignore them at your peril!

Planning Hub

Self build experts give their advice for project managing your own self build

By Mark Brinkley, Mark Stevenson published

From managing the neighbours to clearing up the site ready for the next subcontractor, Mark Brinkley and Mark Stevenson explain what you need to know if you decide to project manage your self build

a self build on a rural plot of land

Types of Self Build Plot: How to Find the Right One for Your Project

By David Snell, Mark Stevenson published

Explore the types of self build plots available and discover how you might be able to find a gem if you look beyond the obvious

Self Build
demolishing a house

Should You Demolish and Replace?

By Michael Holmes, Mark Stevenson published

Today over half of all self-builders are choosing to knock down and start again. Here we look at what’s involved — and explain why it might be the right route for your project

Self Build
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