How to reduce the cost of building a house? Controlling costs is notoriously difficult when you build your own home and it’s not unusual for the end figure to be higher than planned. So how can you reduce building costs? Follow these 12 steps to give yourself the best chance of coming in on budget and reduce building construction costs.

Is size everything?

There’s a temptation to build big, after all, this is your dream home! But how much space do you really need? If this project is your ‘forever’ house then consider all life stages. Four ensuite bedrooms and two reception rooms may seem like you’ve hit the jackpot, but unused space is wasted space that just becomes a pain to clean and expensive to maintain. Besides, a ‘small’ self-build is still a detached property and bigger than the average Victorian or 1930s semi.

Pay attention to the plot

Beautiful views, mature trees and wildlife are going to be an attractive proposition – less so if the site is sloping, there are tree preservation orders and you need a wildlife survey. None of these factors will stop you from building, but will add costs versus a flat, clear site. If this is your dream plot, compare costs to excavate and level the plot against a design that works around the gradient (and trees that can’t be removed). In all cases, check how far the connection is to the services.

Design wisely

A straightforward box with a gable roof is the cheapest house shape to build – but probably not as exciting as you’d like your new home to look. Simplicity is key to reduce build costs as adding complexities to the roof adds to the costs – we can help you find the balance.

See the value in softwood

Of course, we absolutely love oak! But we also recognise some of our customers are working to a tight budget. Our aim is to deliver a design that they love and can afford. To reduce build costs, we advise exposed oak in the main living spaces and softwood tucked away in bathrooms, boot rooms and the utility.

Eco efficiencies – or not?

Of course, we all want to live in the most eco-friendly home we can afford but do your research carefully. Weigh-up at the labour costs as well as the price of materials/equipment to get a true total cost, and align this with the energy savings you hope to make when the house is finished. Our team can help you navigate the options and explore ways to reduce build costs. 

Design for planning

If your site or design is contentious then avoid incurring additional design and planning costs and get the plans right first time. This will help to reduce building construction costs. Our Welsh Oak Frame designers have a wealth of local planning knowledge and can take care of the entire planning process for you.

Hire a quantity surveyor

This is a classic ‘spend to save’ to create a clear picture of your build costs. A quantity surveyor (QS) studies the detailed drawings for building control, works out the quantity of materials you’ll need, and provides a cost estimate of the whole project. Expect to pay around £1500 – money well spent to keep your budget on track. This can help reduce the cost of building a house. 

Tender process

You can use the QS bill of quantities for builders to price against. It’s helpful if they follow the same format as you can make a clear cost comparison. When the prices come back, don’t be afraid to ask how to reduce build costs. 

DIY self-build

Taking on the project management will help reduce building construction costs, but this is an expansive role and requires being available and on site every day to make sure costs don’t slide the other way. Hire trades separately rather than employing a building contractor. General labouring, landscaping and decorating are also convenient ways to save money.

Buy materials

A good way to reduce the cost of building a house is to avoid the DIY shops and set-up an account with a local builder’s merchant. You’ll be buying large quantities so don’t be shy about negotiating a deal which will help reduce build costs. Online tends to be cheaper than the high street though local shops may price match. Delivery is likely to be quicker and items will be easier to return if something goes wrong.

Stick to the design

A change of heart on site could have cost implications, particularly if you’re undoing work that’s already been done. Have a conversation with your builder/tradesperson before any changes are made and agree any additional costs upfront.

Speedy build

Time means money – more labour costs, scaffolding time, site insurance – you get the picture. Minimise potential time lapses with a schedule of works with realistic timeframes for each stage – your builder can guide you through this. Share dates with the trades with reminders/date changes as the project progresses. Place orders early so nobody is left waiting. This will all help to reduce build costs.