Oldsteel

I am just starting out, preparing my build plan, not started any activity on site yet. And yes, I am aware of the CIL returns before I do start! Sorry if this is repeating the subject but I just searched this forum and couldn't find the answer. First I need to say I understand that all VAT spent on materials is reclaimable on completion of the build, so all that needs to be done here is to save receipts! My question is around 'supply and fit' activity that can be zero-rated, such as paying a roofer who also supplies the materials, but that a 'self build certificate' is needed to show the supplier I am a proper self-builder so he can safely invoice me VAT-free. How do I get such a certificate? It sounds like it is worthwhile to have as it's a way of obtaining some VAT-free labour. Of course another way would be to employ non-VAT registered contractors. Advice anyone?

I am at the decision point for main contractor vs PM. I had wanted to go PM having gone main contractor on my last build and had a few issues, but looking at the comments here it seems the dangers of choosing the wrong PM are just as severe as the dangers of choosing the wrong main contractor. In all cases I intend to take up references by talking to previous employers, and keep my options open. If I find a good PM or a good builder that I am confident can do the job I will go with them. In my area though it does seem there are many more builders than PMs to choose from.

This all makes sense - and once I have the building regs drawings complete I can add the other information mentioned - then I have my own tender pack!

I am at this stage. I had assumed we needed construction drawings to get a realistic price from a builder? What is in a 'tender pack'? My architect is recommending this route, at a price of course.

So Dan I am interested in your decision, if you made it yet. We just got our planning permission and now at the stage, as you are, in figuring out how to do the build. In our previous build we employed a main contractor to do everything and wouldn’t go that route again. I would like to tag-team with a PM as we live next to the site, but PMs with experience of self-build are rare, and I am having trouble finding suitable candidates - we are in the Cotswolds. I like your list which lays out the options clearly, and we have many builders who have shown interest, so possible having a builder put up the shell, which is where I am least experienced, might be an option. I am happy to arrange second fix myself. Still undecided though! Where are you at?

Hi Christine a number of reasons I guess. First is the general feeling of solidity, we had creaking top floors and joists. Also the roof area was trussed which made the attic area unusable. Mistakes were made by the timber frame company not using steel for a 4m span over some sliding doors, which sunk subsequently and caused the doors to jam. Now, all of these were fixable in advance had we not relied on the timber frame company (recommended by our builder) to do the right thing with our drawings, and our builder to properly fix the first floor. All in all, a masonry build will be more flexible, I can watch it being built and make adjustments if required as we go. To adjust a factory built product is much more difficult. Are you at the decision point now? The main reason we went timber frame is for simplicity and speed of build together with supposedly better thermal insulation, but I am willing now to forego that this time around.

So pleased to find this forum. We built our first house in Ireland just 10 years ago, moved back to UK two years ago with the intention of building here. Delighted to get planning permission two weeks ago - which took 6 months and lots of paperwork (and fees!) and now the real work starts. Plan to spend at least 6 months in preparation, now at the detailed drawing stage. No idea yet whether we employ a main contractor, project manager or mix of the two. Our last build was timber frame and wouldn't go that route again, on other hand the MHRV was the best thing we did so that is top of the list along with UFH, heat pump and solar PV. Looking forward to joining the self build community!