Going Underground

ProAktive www.selfbuildinsure.co.uk GOING UNDERGROUND With over 30,000 people in the UK* searching for a site on which to realise their self-build project, finding the right plot can be key to a successful outcome. However, finding the perfect site can also be one of the most stressful parts of the self-build process. Many plots come with strict planning policies with rules about what can and cannot be developed on the site. Some self-builders have resorted to innovative thinking as a solution, and have started to take their homes underground! * National Custom and Self Build Association More than > 33,000 12,500 People in the UK currently searching for a plot on which to construct their self-build project Custom & self-build schemes completed in 2015 FULL & PARTIAL SUBMERSION Partially submerged home Just 4ft of submersion can make a big difference when it comes to planning permission When built on a sloping site, fully submerged homes can still have windows Submerged homes must be fully tanked in order to be waterproof Fully submerged home PROS SU CONS Submerging your home fully or partially, might mean that you avoid certain planning • It may be difficult to introduce natural light to an underground home. Sky lights and constraints windows in homes • Energy efficient - With proper insulation, underground homes can take and store built on sloping sites can help to alleviate this. • Building beneath the surface (particularly waterproofing) can be expensive. naturally occurring heat from the ground If you're planning a self-build project, whether it's underground or not, you should always ensure you protect your investment with Self Build insurance. ProAktive Self Build developed the first UK Self Build insurance policy in 1984. ProAktive are the industry leaders, with specialists available to discuss your project build, and insurance requirements. ProAktive Doncaster: 01302 346 831 | Follow us O0O www.selfbuildinsure.co.uk