Finding A Plot
AT A GLANCE
01
Planning context
Ask an Irish architect or planning adviser to test the site against the county development plan and any local rural-housing policy.
02
Access and visibility
Check safe road access, sightlines, gradients, delivery space and the route for large timber-frame components.
03
Ground and drainage
Investigate levels, bearing conditions, flooding and wastewater options before relying on an attractive asking price.
04
Services and true cost
Price electricity, water, telecoms, access roads, excavation and landscaping before agreeing your overall budget.
Start with feasibility, not the house plan
A beautiful plot is only useful if it can support a consentable, affordable home. Before purchasing, ask a locally experienced Irish architect or engineer to review the planning context, access, services, wastewater, topography and likely construction implications. Where appropriate, make any offer conditional on satisfactory investigations and planning advice from your solicitor.
Planning and rural-housing policy
Each planning authority works within its county or city development plan. In rural areas, local-need policies, settlement strategy, landscape designations, ribbon development, road safety and the visual relationship with neighbouring buildings may influence whether a new dwelling is acceptable.
Do not assume that a previous permission, an attractive estate-agent description or the presence of nearby houses guarantees consent for your proposal. A pre-planning discussion or a site feasibility study can be money well spent.
Physical checks before purchase
- Legal title, boundaries, rights of way and wayleaves.
- Safe entrance position and achievable visibility splays.
- Road width, bends, bridges and access for articulated deliveries and cranes.
- Topographical survey and practical finished-floor levels.
- Ground conditions, rock, peat, made ground and foundation risk.
- Flooding, surface-water routes and site drainage.
- Public sewer availability or suitability for an on-site wastewater system.
- Mains water or a viable private supply.
- Electricity and telecom connection distances and quotations.
- Wind exposure, orientation, views, overshadowing and summer overheating.
Allow for the hidden costs
A low land price can be overtaken by a long access road, extensive retaining structures, rock excavation, poor ground, a distant electricity connection or a complex wastewater solution. Obtain early professional advice and budget quotations before deciding how much of the overall project budget can safely be spent on the plot.
Delivery matters: HebHomes components arrive on large vehicles and the structural kit is erected using lifting equipment. Share the site location and approach route with HebHomes early so access constraints can be considered before the design and programme are fixed.
Finding land
Plots may be advertised through Daft.ie, MyHome.ie, rural property agents and local auctioneers. Many opportunities also emerge through local knowledge, farmers, landowners and direct approaches. The Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland provides a directory of chartered surveyors who can assist with valuation and property advice.
