Electricity and water are two items that can be prohibitively expensive and therefore essential to price into the amount you are paying for the site.
Utility Costs and Considerations
- Electricity and Water Costs: These are significant expenses that need to be included in your overall site budget.
- Connection Fees and Infrastructure: Includes standard utility connection fees plus any necessary infrastructure, like installing a pole, involving network operators (ESB Networks/NIE for electricity; Irish Water/NI Water for water).
Site Preparation Responsibilities
- Trench Digging: You are responsible for digging trenches on your site, typically requiring a groundworks tradesperson with a digger.
- Water Supply: Essential from the start of construction.
- Electricity Supply: While not essential due to generator options, having electricity will simplify construction.
Temporary Connections
- Temporary Connections: Can be costly and may not be necessary. In ROI, a temporary builder's connection has higher commercial rates.
Water Supply Alternatives
- Drilling a Well: Consider this option for potable water, along with ongoing maintenance and testing costs.
- Group Water Scheme: Available in ROI, but also comes with associated costs.
- Rainwater Harvesting: A viable option for limescale-free water.
Off-Grid Electricity and Broadband Access
- Off-Grid Electricity: Typically too expensive for an average family home, starting at around £35K/€40K.
- Fibre Broadband: Essential for those working from home. Check availability by asking neighbors, as rural areas may lack full connectivity.