Custom build is a method of creating your own bespoke home where the upfront hard work is already taken care of. On a conventional self build you are responsible for sourcing a plot, securing planning permission and arranging services before you break ground. This can be time-consuming and costly. In contrast, custom build usually refers to multi-plot sites where an enabling company or developer prepares the site for sale. They will secure outline (or even detailed) planning permission and install the key infrastructure, such as roads, and the utilities to each plot. The enabler then markets these serviced plots, which is where the customer journey starts.
The Right to Build is the unofficial name for the legislation that requires councils in England to maintain a register of individuals and groups who are looking for land to create their own homes.
Design codes and plot passports are tools used to frame development to ensure that what is built will be acceptable in terms of planning. Your enabler will agree this with the council’s planners, taking into account local policy, the wider community and your future neighbours on the development.
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Custom build basics
Signing your register does not mean your council will find you a plot, but it must have consideration for this demand when deciding planning applications. Many Scottish councils also run registers (although they are not obliged to act on them).
Not every site will have both, but most will have at least a design code, as this sets out what is permitted on a site-wide basis and ensures the finished development will read as a whole in its entirety. This might include fixing building volumes and heights, some positioning options on the plot and materials choices. In some cases, it might specify the external design(s) available or which house type is allowable on which plot.