Costs
Remember that not only will you ned to budget for land (typically one half to one third of your total costs) and construction but also for contingencies, landscaping, building guarantees and services. Advice on all these matter will come from your architect.

Planning
Your architect will advise you on the current costs and procedures relating to planning and building regulations.

Fees
Architects can work to fixed, percentage or hourly rate fees, very much depending on the type and extent of your project. Ask before starting and your architect will advise you accordingly.

VAT
When you create a new house or other eligible building, you may be able to get back the VAT you paid on your materials. Notice 719 'Vat Refunds for DIY Builders and Converters' tells you how the scheme works and whether you can use it. If you need any help you should contact your local VAT office. You'll find their number in your telephone directory under Customs and Excise or at their website.  Copies of the public notices are also available there.


Your ASBA architect will explain the process and help you draw up a complete checklist so that you don't get lost in the process. Click here to see an example of a cost breakdown for a typical house.