Groundwork and Foundations
- Groundworks help position foundations correctly.
- Ensure compliance with planning restrictions, proper orientation, and boundary spacing.
- Verify boundary positions and easements against solicitor maps.
- Accurate measurements are crucial for foundation positioning and block layers.
- If using a main contractor, they may ask you or your architectural designer to confirm positioning.
- If doing it yourself, have an experienced professional check the work to avoid serious mistakes.
Pre-Construction Practicalities
- Finalize construction drawings, including:
- Finished Ground Level (FGL) and its impact on sewer pipes and services.
- Finished Floor Level (FFL), ensuring it's higher than FGL to prevent moisture issues.
- Plan service locations for waste pipes, electricity, water, fibre, and utility meters.
- Ensure enough space for drainage pipes, especially in wet rooms.
Construction in NI vs. ROI
- NI: Building Control drawings should include all necessary details.
- ROI: The owner/builder is responsible for submitting plans that comply with regulations. Designers will ensure the design brief is clear and complete.
Check Utility Lines
- Ensure no gas, electricity, or water mains are in the digging area.
- Diverting wastewater or water mains can be problematic if not planned for.
Get Approvals
- Apply early for utility connections once planning approval is received.
- Obtain necessary permits like a road opening licence or consent to discharge into waterways.