What should I look for in a Site?
Added to SitesForSale: 11th Nov, 2006
Most people start out with various criteria when looking for a site of land on which to build their home. For some, proximity to schools and shops is a must while others are looking for complete privacy as far removed as possible from the hustle and bustle of modern living. There are however more issues to be taken into consideration when looking for a possible site.
While an elevated site with a spectactular view of the sea may seem idyllic, it may turn out to be far from that come the winds and harsh weather of the colder months. It is issues like this that are often overlooked - we have put together a few things to keep in mind when you are looking at a site:
As mentioned above, a site on top of a hill with spectactular views of the surrounding countryside may sound idyllic. However, come the inevitable cold winter weather and heavy winds, this may prove to be a very harsh environment! You are well advised to take the surrounding environment into account when evaluating any possible sites. Check if the site is provided with any natural shelter, be it trees or hills as this will prove invaluable. In addition to this, if time and season permits - try and visit your site during a spell of colder weather to get a feel for what it will be like then.
Check out how well the site is serviced. Is there water readily available? Is it provided through a group scheme and if so, what are the costs of obtaining a connection. Will you need to bring the line across the road? If water is not readily available, you may well have to incur the additional expense of boring for a well. Another thing to look out for is how close to you the ESB supply is as each pole that has to be installed to supply power to your residence will come at an additional cost to you. In a rural area, a waste disposal unit will more than likely be necessary so watch out for wet or rocky sites that would be unsuitable for a septic tank.
Ensure that the size and the shape of the site fits in with the size and shape of house you have in mind. The general rule is the larger the house, the larger the site must be. Orientation is also very important, ensure that the shape and positioning of the site allows you face the house so that the main living rooms face south to benefit from the light and warmth. Also note that planning will stipulate that the waster water system, well (if applicable) and house must be a minimum distance from each other. Ensure that the site is at least large enough to ensure that all three are far enough away from each other as well as from any neighbouring houses.
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