Self-build and Custom Housebuilding application form
Self-build and Custom Housebuilding applications
This form should be completed when an application is being made for self-build or custom housebuilding.
It will help us understand how the proposal meets the legal definition, as set out below.
Self-build and Custom Housebuilding definition
Section 1 of the Self-build and Custom Housebuilding Act 2015 (as amended) states:
“1(A1) In this Act “self-build and custom housebuilding” means the building or completion by
- individuals
- associations of individuals
- persons working with or for individuals or associations of individuals, of houses to be occupied as homes by those individuals.
(A2) But it does not include the building of a house on a plot acquired from a person who builds the house wholly or mainly to plans or specifications decided or offered by that person.”
The glossary of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) states:
“Housing built by an individual, a group of individuals, or persons working with or for them, to be occupied by that individual. Such housing can be either market or affordable housing. A legal definition, for the purpose of applying the Self-build and Custom Housebuilding Act 2015 (as amended), is contained in section 1(A1) and (A2) of that Act.”
Paragraph 63 of the NPPF also refers to:
“people wishing to commission or build their own homes.”
Planning Practice guidance (2021, paragraph 016) states:
“In considering whether a home is a self-build or custom build home, relevant authorities must be satisfied that the initial owner of the home will have primary input into its final design and layout.”
With regards to advice on Biodiversity Net Gain exemptions for self and custom build homes on small sites the Right to Build Task Force states:
Based on the wording of the Act it can be said that
• second homes and holiday homes do not qualify
• caravans and pitches do not qualify
• extensions and refurbishments do not qualify (not building a new home)
• and homes designed to be sold off plan do not qualify.
Please complete the form at the link here - PDF or word document.
Once completed, send it to us as part of your planning application.
You can also register for interest for a self build / custom. Please see the webpage.