What is a self-build neighbourhood?
A self-build neighbourhood is an area where (almost) all homes have been designed and built to the order of private individuals, without a property developer in between. The local authority or a landowner sells individual building plots to private buyers. The buyer is the client: they choose an architect or builder, commission a design and organise the build. In the Netherlands this is called particulier opdrachtgeverschap, and a well-known example is the Homeruskwartier in Almere. In the UK the same idea is often called custom build or self-build.
How does it work?
- Choose a plot: each plot comes with rules, such as the building envelope, maximum height, building line and parking. In the Netherlands these are set out in a plot passport (kavelpaspoort) and the local zoning plan.
- Have a design made: the design must comply with these rules.
- Get permission: building a new home requires a building or planning permit.
- Build: with a main contractor, as a shell home finished by yourself, or partly with your own labour.
When several households build together, this is known as collective private commissioning.
Application and points to watch
- Read the plot rules before buying: they decide what you may build. A dream design that does not fit costs time and money.
- Ground and utilities: ask about soil investigation and connections for sewer, water and electricity, and who pays for what.
- Design control: some neighbourhoods allow a great deal of freedom, others have design codes.
- Obligation to build: plot contracts often require building within a set period. Take this into account in planning and finance.
- Resale: a very individual design suits your wishes but may appeal to fewer buyers later.
Related terms
- Building plot
- Collective private commissioning
- Zoning plan
- Planning permission
- Property developer
Want to learn more about construction terms? Visit our knowledge base at fredsdiyplans.com.