Remodeling: A Home That's as Good as New

After deciding that you want to have a new house built instead of buying an existing one that does not meet all of your requirements for a home, you may have already picked out and purchased a plot of land. Once you have the land, you may be getting ready to start planning out the construction of your house.

While figuring out the structures and amenities that your home will include is a major part of this phase, there are some things that you need to know beforehand. Below are a couple of questions you should ask a contractor when you just beginning the planning phase for your new home's construction.

1. Are There Any Restrictions On What You Can Have Built On The Plot?

One question you should ask the contractor before you start discussing plans or drawing up blueprints has to do with restrictions. You will need to know whether the zoning for the plot of land you want your home built on has any types of restrictions that will impact how you plan.

For example, if you would like to have a home that uses a septic system and solar power, you need to have the contractor check to make sure that these systems are allowed. While you may be able to at least integrate solar power into the new house's electrical system, a septic tank can usually only be installed in certain areas.

2. Who Will Be Responsible For Obtaining All Legal Documents?

Another thing you will need to know before you start planning out the construction of your new house has to do with the legal paperwork. When you meet with the contractor and discuss all ideas for the construction, you should ask about what permits are needed.

Along with obtaining a list of the legal documents you will need, you should ask the contractor whether you or they will need to get them. While most of the building permits can be obtained by the contractor, your city, county, and state laws will determine how much you will need to be involved. The contractor can let you know what you will need to do before you get started with building the house.

When you enter the planning phase for constructing your new house, you first need to find out if there are any restrictions on the building lot so that you do not inadvertently plan on a structural addition that is prohibited. You also need to lay out who is responsible for obtaining legal documents such as building permits.

For more information on home construction, contact a professional near you.