I just bought some land lakeside, and I am looking forward to building a summer home there – two floors, a deck, probably no more than four bedrooms and two or three bathrooms. I’d be buidling into a modest hill, but nothing crazy.
What are my considerations in advance of this project? For example, permitting, water, sewage, foundation, etc.?
First thing you should do is check with the local health dept and see what your lot is approved for as far as bedrooms.
Typically lake lots require septic tanks and rules are very strict on how many bedrooms you can have. You will need to know if
lot have city water or if you will need a well. This will effect the septic location. Next before purchasing a plan make sure there are not any mountain protection ordinances in your area. This can effect the height of home and size of footprint of plan. Always check references of any contractor before you sign contract.
First and most, drop by the local building department to check on the zoning requirements for your area / lot. Distance from water line, set backs, house height as well as your floor area for the home, then ask about city sewer and water if available, that would solve the septic system problem / water well. Then deal with the given conditions accordingly. All this info should have been known before obtaining the land to build, at times people get surprised to find out it is not a buildable lot. If you are not available to verify these conditions, then your architect can provide that as part of his services. Then he will provide you all the needed plans, engineering, survey and construction plans. Verify your contractor info and track record and have a writen contract.
