Mrsrc

I think that's def something we will look into. Hopefully they will be able to advise fully and price it all up. Thanks so much for your advice xx

I suspect its more 1970 work. It's previously been used as storage. Can attach pics if interested.

Hi guys. I really do appreciate all of the advice. I have literally only just been able to log back onto the forum so today is the 1st day I've read any posts! Christmas and illness have tied up my time. Just to clarify, I don't know (yet) when the attic was converted but will certainly be asking the question. It was the estate who has said that its not a liveable space, and their advice was that this is due to the stairs being too steep. No mention from them about insulation etc but we are planning on getting a full structural survey prior to exchange of contracts

Hi there. Very new to renovation projects. We're looking at buying a 3 bed house that currently has an attic room. Lots of space, 2 windows (1 standard, 1 velux), central heated radiators, flooring etc. Estate agents have advised its not a legal living space due to the stairs being too steep. If we wanted to convert to a full on 4th bedroom, would I need an architect to draw up plans? Get planning permission? Or can I simply get a builder who specialises in loft conversions and ask them to convert it so it complies with building regs? Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks

That's great advice @patp I'll definitely look into this. As we're still at the financing stage the more info we can get the better. STILL had no quotes back yet....and it's not even an unusual build! ?

Hi Alan. I'm in county Durham too. I'm a complete novice so you may regret making yourself known to me! ? ?

Good advice. Thank you x

Thanks x

Do you think there's much difference between version 12 and 13? I've seen a 12th edition (used) for a couple of quid on eBay. Or is it worth paying the £20 for the latest one?

Thanks for the reply. I was just writing things down as they came into my head. Obviously I'll be making a list in the correct running order. Just wasn't sure if I was missing anything ? I haven't got many quotes in place yet. Finding it tricky to get any tbh. Will be contacting utility connection today/tomorrow.

Thanks for the reply. I know what you mean, I need the list to flow in a logical order, was just writing stuff down as it can in my head. We're planning a block build. STILL waiting on builders quotes. I know it's going to be hard work project managing ourselves. But in for a penny.... ?

Hi. Early stages. Just in the process of land purchase. Is there anywhere on this forum that I can get a list of EVERYTHING I need to take into account cost wise? Project management by myself and hubby. I've got the following obvs not in order: Land Planning permission (already passed) Landscape plans and permission (part of the condition of pp) Build of property shell (foundations, walls, roof) Tiling Bathrooms Kitchen Plumbing ufh and radiators Internal doors and handles and skirting Windows and doors External render Plastering Elecs and fittings /switches internal and external Utility and drain connection Drilling investigation (coal mine area) Possible raft depending on ground investigation Building regs sign off Clearing site Landscaping of garden Drive laying and materials Skips Flooring Insurance? Not sure If I need this I'm sure I've forgotten lots! Please help me! ?

Looks amazing! Well done!

Thanks. Will make sure pour solicitors understand the issues before instructing them x

Yes I agree. This should be sorted out by the vendors. Luckliy it's still early days and even though it's a good plot in a good position it's worthless without access to the new build lol!

That was my thoughts too. But we put our offer to buy the land in based on it having FULL planning. My thoughts are the seller needs to sort this BEFORE we go any further.

What an absolute nightmare. Why are some things never simple. And it seems like (at times) nobody in "authority" wants to put their neck on the line and make a decision! Hope you get sorted soon x

So happy it's ended well for you, but what a stressful time you must've had. Yes we're looking at getting solicitors to check over everything. Thanks again for the advice x

Thanks so much for the replies. The plot we're buying is someones garden they are selling off. The access issue is down to the fact that the planning permission for the new build shows that access will be the existing drive currently there. However, the sellers don't want us to use that drive, they want to block it off and get to their house via an alternative drive that they got permission for. So, when they got planning permission for the house someone from highways department has agreed that the new build can put in a new drive, but planning department are saying they won't allow a new drive as it would mean removing a protected hedge! So who wins? Planning or Highways? Luckily we haven't handed any cash over yet so potentially could walk away. I'll def have a read about getting builders quotes etc. And also your blog! Wish me luck!

Hi all! Very newbie here! Very nervous too lol. We Have found a plot we like which already has planning permission (although there is some confusion about whether or not the access has been granted!) On a side note it seems really difficult to get builders quotes. Is anyone else having the same problem? And how many quotes will I need for my self build mortgage application? Tia x