How to Prepare Land for Construction Costs

Ascertain your budget for the home construction. This is usually determined by the cost of the land and how much money you have left over to build with. Depending on your budget, you should have an idea of how big you want the home to be and additional uses for the land, such as the construction of a pool or shed.

Consult with a general contractor in your area and obtain a quote for his building services. The contractor can advise you about which type of property would best suit the terrain and land and which types of homes would be fitting for the property. The contractor may dig around the area to assess whether there is a high water table or other issues that may cause problems with construction. A water table refers to the groundwater at which the soil is saturated with water. If the land has a high water table, it can be difficult or impossible to build on. Your city's building department has building codes and requirements that the construction has to meet, so be sure to select a general contractor who is both experienced and reliable. Obtain references to be sure. This could potentially save you thousands of dollars in additional expenses.

Contact a building engineer about your building needs. A building engineer will assist you with the planning, design and construction of your home, based on the surrounding environment. The job of the building engineer is to ensure that your home is built with appropriate materials and that the building methods used will best support your home.

Liaise with the general contractor in selecting the needed materials and equipment for building on the lot. Contact hardware shops and obtain quotes for the wood, concrete and other building materials required for the home, including any work intended for the interior. Be sure to factor in the cost of a plumber, electrician and landscaper.

Consult with your city's building department and find out if there are any building restrictions. Submit a building permit for your home construction. You must obtain permission for building on the lot prior to construction. Most cities have building restrictions and requirements. Check with your city government for building code requirements that pertain to electrical, mechanical and plumbing codes. Other building codes include a grading ordinance, flood damage prevention and sanitary sewer requirements.

Schedule an inspection with a city inspector when the construction of the plumbing, foundation and concrete slabs have been laid. Contact the city's building department to schedule the inspection. They may also provide a list of approved inspectors for you to choose from. Ask about the fee for the inspection. The inspector will inspect the home during and after the construction process. For example, she will inspect the foundation once the trenches are excavated and the forms are erected. Inspectors must be present to oversee the construction of your home in various stages. Be prepared to pay for the inspector's visit. Prepare your budget for potential items that may need to be changed in order to fulfill building requirements. If you have obtained a reliable and credible general contractor, this shouldn't be a problem.