Back in June 2010 we sold our house and purchased a block of land to build a house. We built our previous house using a builder, but this time we wanted to use a building method not commonly known. We did our research and asked many questions. The common response from builders was not interested or their costs were quite substantial.
Not deterred, I decided to build as owner builder.
In July, we contracted an architect to commence the design of the house and a few months later, we were happy with the house plans. In the meantime, I found out what I needed to do to become an owner builder and attended a few workshops on the building method we wanted to use.
In November 2010, I did the owner builder course and applied for my Owner Builder Permit through the Building Services Authority. I also had to do a Workplace Health and Safety course to receive my White Card. After this stage I was permitted to start our house build.
In December, I commenced the process of requesting quotes from different contractors. Chasing and recording quotes continued to March 2011, at which time I decided which quotes to accept from the different trades and materials.
The next step was to get finance in place – not easy as an owner builder and is a major obstacle.
We also had to get our plans approved by the developer and then by the council. This is not as easy as it sounds, they require a lot of information right down to colours of the house and landscaping particulars.
By the end of May this year, we put the slab down – it was nice after almost twelve months to see something finally happening.
Along the way, there are a lot of phone calls, emails and meetings to resolve any issues as they arise along the way.
Now coming to the end of July, walls are up, roof is on, windows are in and we are nearing to lock up stage.
If you are ever thinking of becoming an owner builder and taking on the task of building your own home, be prepared:
· For materials and tools going missing
· For bad weather and down time
· For late nights
· In keeping on top of the budget
· For issues with bank – banks are extra careful with owner builders
· In learning building terminology
· To work 7 days a week
I don’t recommend a skip – it’s full from other people’s rubbish before you even get a chance to use it yourself. Therefore every weekend, one of my jobs is to collect the rubbish and take it to the tip.
Building a house as owner builder is mentally and physically challenging and overwhelming at times. It is however very satisfying when you achieve a good outcome.
Would I recommend building as Owner Builder, not if you have a full time job – it’s a full time job in itself.