CONSIDERATIONS BEFORE BUILDING A HOUSE IN NIGERIA
In Nigeria today, before you venture into building a house, there are several things you need to consider for the success of that project. You don’t wake up one day and start to build. In this write up, you will find it as a useful guild on the processes involved so that you can achieve your desirable goal.
- Buy a Suitable Plot:
- Consider if the plot of land is meant for residential, commercial, industrial purposes from the local authorities.
- Find a reputable real estate agent to help you source for a good location and make sure you verify that the land is free from every encumbrance.
- Consider factors like location, accessibility, closeness to social amenities, security, and price and your budget.
- Make sure your survey your land and register it in the government.
- Planning:
- Decide on the type of home you want to build either residential or commercial, whether it is your personal family house or for rent.
- Hire an Architect:
- It is highly recommended that you consult an architect to help with building design and planning of the different spaces and your landscape as well. The Architect will also help you to coordinate the other professionals like Structural Engineer, Mechanical and Electrical Engineers.
- Building Plan Approval:
- Submit your complete drawings to the government for approval.
- Once approved, you can proceed with construction.
- Consult with a Quantity Surveyor:
- Engage a quantity surveyor to estimate the cost of materials and labour.
- This will help you create a feasible construction budget so that you don’t get stuck up along the way.
- Choose the Right Builder/Contractor:
- Find a reliable builder or contractor to bring your plan to life.
- Ask for their past records and know some of the buildings they have developed.
- Ensure they follow the approved design or if there will be any alteration, make you get your Architect involved.
- Construction stage:
- Sort your building materials with the architect’s specifications from building materials markets, shops or with trusted vendors
- Do your construction in stages and pay the contractor in stages too.
- Progress through exterior and interior work, including fittings, doors, and windows.
- Construction Monitoring Process:
- Regularly check the progress and quality of work done by the contractor
- Address any issues promptly and proceed
- Finish:
- Once the structure is completed, roofed, plastering or any desired finishes can commence. At this point, most clients think they know it all as they can detect the material so they can do away with the professionals. This is where you will get it wrong, the integrity of the house the most be affected if you don’t carry along the professionals especially the Architect at this stage of your construction.
- Paint, install electrical fittings, and add look for a good interior designer or you can do it by yourself depending on your preferences.
Remember, building a house requires careful planning and attention to detail.
GOODLUCK!
