The number of people building their own home is at an all time high. But why self build and what’s involved?
Q: What do the star ratings mean?
A: Our timber frame packages are star rated from 1 to 5, the higher the star rating the more insulation there is within your external wall, making your new home cosier and more energy efficient. We also include triple glazed windows in our 4 and 5 star package.
Q: How much does it cost to build?
A: How long is a piece of string…
The price to build your house depends on a number of factors, ground conditions is one, your specification of choice is another factor and also whether you decide to project manage the build yourself or employ a Contractor to organise the build program and trades for you.
There are many tools online to help work out your overall budget, one I like to use is Buildstore’s Build Cost Calculator.
Q: Do Scotframe put the kit up?
A: Scotframe are a supply only company. We deliver to all UK mainland locations, ready for your timber frame erector to put your timber frame up on site for you.
Q: Can Scotframe provide a full build service?
A: No
Q: What is included in Scotframe’s price?
A: Not only do Scotframe allow for coordinating the manufacture and delivery of the timber frame structure, but also the supply of windows, external doors, insulation, plasterboard, stairs, internal door sets, architrave, skirtings and finishings – the complete package. And Schedule A for Architecture.
Q: What is open and closed?
A: Closed panel is Scotframe’s very own Val-U-Therm Plus system. The insulation is injected into the timber frame panel (filling every nook and cranny with insulation) in our factory, a reflective breather paper is then factory fitted to the external side of our panel and a vapour control layer and service battens to the inside of the panel, all in factory quality-controlled conditions. Once delivered to site they are ready to be erected quickly and easily making your new build wind and water-tight and ready for internal works to being. Our open panel option provides a structural timber frame, with insulation, vapour control layer and service battens all supplied loose in rolls or stock lengths for site cutting and fitting.
Q: Can I change your house type/what can I change?
A: Of course, you can alter any of our house types to suit your needs. You can change the internal layouts, move windows and doors and even make the house larger or smaller if you prefer. Our in-house Architects will be happy to make amendments to our house type drawings for you.
Q: Do you provide drawings?
A: As standard Scotframe’s in house Architectural team provide house type drawings for planning and for building warrant, in addition to this we can offer to submit drawings to your local authority on your behalf.
Q: Can I start tomorrow?
A: Obtaining planning consent and a building warrant can be a timely process, sometimes taking 6 months or more, before any building work can begin. This is not Scotframe’s leadtime, it is dependent on the local authorities which is out of Scotframe’s control. It is fantastic that you have a goal and want push ahead as quickly as possible, my intention is only to make sure your goal is realistic to avoid disappointment.
Q: Do Scotframe offer financial services?
A: For most people getting their finances in order is an important starting point for their self-build project. Scotframe do not offer financial services but can recommend BuildStore Mortgage Services. BuildStore is the number one choice for financial assistance. Arranging your self-build mortgage with BuildStore is simple and straightforward.
Q. Do I pay VAT on a new build?
A. Yes, but you can claim back VAT for building material once your build is complete. Here is some helpful advice from Buildstore:
“Before they start the build, they should download the relevant pack from HMRC’s website and then collate all of the receipts and invoices for the materials they will be claiming for as they go along. It is important that these are all original documents, have the supplier’s VAT registration number, plus list the quantity and description of the goods and the price of each item. If the value of an invoice is more than £100, then it must show the clients name and address.”
“Claims are always made at the end of the project – usually after your building control officer has issued the completion certificate…Your clients then have three months to submit your claim, which HMRC will acknowledge within 10 days and will usually settle within 30 working days.”