Are we building a better future?

The changes in March to the building regulations (S.I. No. 80 of 2013 BUILDING CONTROL (AMENDMENT) REGULATIONS 2013) will have big repercussions for residential self-builders. Nearly 60% of houses constructed in Ireland are self-builds (source NaSBA).

Self-builders will be required, under S.I.80, as clients, to employ a design certifier and assigned certifier (engineer/ architect/building surveyor) — this is positive, as it is unwise for an inexperienced person to undertake self-building without professional input. Currently, a client can nominate themselves as the self-builder. The only persons precluded from operating as contractors are architects. So, S.I.80 can only improve the quality of self-builds. However, when a formal register of builders is introduced in 2015, self-builders will have to meet criteria to register, or will be precluded. The criteria will likely be a minimum of three years’ relevant building experience, tax affairs in order, relevant insurances, etc.

So, self-building will only be possible for established contractors. Rural landowners with building experience will not be allowed to manage sub-contractors — they will have to hire a contractor for projects that require planning permission (farm buildings, outhouses etc).