If you’re planning on developing a building idea, the first step is choosing where your building is going to be. This isn’t as easy as pointing at a plot of land and saying ‘we’ll build right there’, as there are key factors which must be taken into account before the start of any new-build project.
We’ve listed the main considerations that will help you choose the right plot for your build.
Suitable Landscape
The land that you plan to build on may appear suitable, but there are hidden factors that require careful thought to decide how appropriate it really is as the base for your project.
Natural Hazards
Natural hazards are often unforeseeable and unpreventable. Whilst they cannot always be avoided, there are ways in which you can plan ahead to reduce the risks of being affected by them.
Here are three common natural hazards to look out for:
Flooding: If the land you are considering is situated on lower ground and/or is near a water source, there is high-potential for flooding in the future. Check the degree of flooding in previous years in the area to see how likely an issue this would present to you.
Thinking about the practicality of your architecture design could assist in minimising the effects of flooding and water damage; this could be achieved through raised foundations to elevate your building above the flood level and having slanted roofs to aid water run-off, for example.
Rockfalls: If you’re opting for an area with a seaview, then you may be looking to build on or near cliffs. Whilst many people are sensible enough to not build on a cliff edge, the type of rock composition can affect its rate of erosion and still affect your build – even if you seem to be within a reasonable distance of the edge.
Many people have previously found their coastal homes quite literally falling from beneath their feet; if you are looking to build in a coastal area, it is worth checking the rates of erosion and how this may affect your building plans to avoid such fate.
Earthquakes: Earthquakes undoubtedly cause devastating effects on residential and commercial buildings alike. Knowing how prone the area you are looking to build on is to earthquakes and the degree of consequences they could have on your building is therefore of great importance.
Geotechnical engineering companies can offer qualified engineers to carry out site investigations that look out for the above risks.
Sewage and Electrics
Sewage and electricity are often considered essential in most building developments.
Correct drainage is vital both during and after your build. Knowing the situation of the sewerage system will help to foreshadow any complications that could take place further down the line.
Noting how reliable the electricity is in the area and how this relates to the needs of your build could save a lot of hassle later on. For example, building a block of offices in an area prone to power cuts and slow broadband speed is less than ideal, whereas for a relaxing getaway B&B this ‘disconnected feel’ could be listed as part of its charm.
Accessibility
If there is restricted access to the area you wish to build upon, this can cause issues with the speed and efficiency of a development.
You may need to build roads for better access to your sight, costing more money and prolonging the timeline of development, in which you would also need consent from the Highway Authority and any other relevant parties. This increases the cost and duration of your development plan.
Are you looking to start a building project and wish to enlist the help of a design engineer? Get in touch with Integrated Design & Associates. We offer building services and designs in Birmingham, helping you every step of the way to meet your construction needs.
