Basic Site Checklist

Buyer Beware:

  • Sight lines, rights of way, restrictive covenants, and the need for new entrances are crucial considerations.

Sight Lines:

  • To obtain planning permission for a new house, you must ensure adequate road entrance sight lines.
  • Generally, the higher the speed limit on the road, the greater the sight lines required to see oncoming traffic from both directions.
  • Sites on winding roads with high speed limits may be difficult or impossible to build on.
  • Check local planning regulations for specific requirements.

Rights of Way and Restrictive Covenants:

  • Your solicitor should investigate rights of way issues and any restrictive covenants that might limit your building plans.
  • This is essential due diligence, as important details can be overlooked when rushing to secure a plot.
  • Ensure you can meet these requirements within the land you own to avoid the need to purchase additional land (a ransom strip) from a neighbor at a premium. 

Mortgage Considerations:

  • If applying for a mortgage, banks will require legal assurance that you have the right to access the road.
    • Creating a new entrance typically requires a local authority application and the use of an approved contractor for the work.
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    Information on building your own home is for general purposes only and may not be accurate or up-to-date. Always consult with licensed professionals before making any decisions. We are not responsible for any errors or outcomes based on this content.

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