The 84-page self build handbook
Plot to completion, covering route options, procurement, risk and the order everything has to happen in.
Premium Project Pack
Self Build Project Pack
From finding a plot to handing yourself the keys — the structure, checklists and financial controls a self build needs.
- 84-page PDF
- 20 templates
- Instant download
- Updated August 2026
Secure checkout coming soon — payments are not yet enabled.
What's included
Everything in this pack
Self build rewards preparation more than any other project type. This pack gives you the structure professionals use, translated for homeowners.
Spreadsheet
Plot appraisal scorecard
Score any plot on access, services, ground conditions, planning history and constraints before you bid.
Spreadsheet
Self build finance planner
Stage-payment cash flow, VAT reclaim tracking and contingency modelling in one place.
Editable
Build programme template
A realistic 12–18 month programme you can adapt, with dependencies and long-lead items flagged.
Reference
Warranty and insurance checklist
Structural warranty, site insurance and what lenders will expect at each stage.
Printable
Site meeting and inspection records
Templates for recording decisions, variations and inspections so your paper trail holds up.
Who is this for?
Built for you if…
First-time self builders
You want the full picture before committing to a plot or a mortgage.
Plot hunters
You are appraising sites and need a consistent way to compare them.
Custom build buyers
You are working with a developer or package provider and want to hold them to account.
Table of contents
What you'll work through
Part 1 — Getting started
- Self build routes compared
- Finding and appraising a plot
- Self build mortgages and stage payments
- VAT reclaim: what qualifies
Part 2 — Design and approvals
- Assembling your professional team
- Planning strategy for new dwellings
- Building regulations for new builds
- Utilities, access and drainage
Part 3 — Building and completion
- Procurement routes and contracts
- Running the programme and cash flow
- Inspections, warranty and sign-off
- Moving in and final paperwork
Inside the pack
Example pages
A look at the layout and depth you can expect. Final pages may differ slightly.
Self build routes compared Plot appraisal scorecard Stage-payment cash flow Build programme template Warranty checklist Completion paperwork
Reviews
What homeowners say
Homeowner reviews will appear here once the pack is released.
Homeowner reviews will appear here once the pack is released.
Homeowner reviews will appear here once the pack is released.
Pricing
One pack, one payment
Self Build Project Pack
£59£89
One-off payment. Lifetime access to updates.
- 84-page self build handbook (PDF)
- 20 editable planners, trackers and templates
- Free updates when the rules change
- Instant download, no subscription
Payments are not enabled yet — this is a preview of the pack.
Prefer to start free?
Every BuildGuide guide and tool stays free. The pack simply gathers the templates, trackers and detail into one place so you are not piecing it together yourself.
Instant download once payments go live.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a plot before buying this pack?
No. The plot appraisal tools are designed to be used while you are still searching, and they often save far more than the price of the pack.
Does it cover VAT reclaim?
It explains what qualifies and gives you a tracking sheet. Your final claim should still be checked against current HMRC guidance.
Is it suitable for a barn conversion or renovation?
Parts of it are, but the pack assumes a new-build dwelling. Conversion-specific packs are planned.
Ask Mason
Not sure this is the right pack?
Describe your project and Mason will point you to the guidance — free — that fits your home and situation, including whether the Self Build Project Pack is worth it for you.
Start with MasonRecommended next steps
Read next
Building regulations 10 min
Building Regulations Explained
Understand what Building Regulations cover, when they apply, how approval works and how they differ from planning permission.
Read guideExtensions 10 min
Planning Your House Extension
From first sketch to shovel-ready drawings, learn the practical steps that lead to a smooth, well-priced extension project.
Read guideBuilding regulations 8 min
Planning Permission vs Building Regulations
A clear comparison of planning permission and Building Regulations for UK homeowners, covering what each controls, when they apply and how they work together.
Read guideBuilding regulations 9 min
Structural Work and Party Wall Basics
A plain-English guide to structural work in the home and the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 for UK homeowners, covering when engineers are needed, what notices to serve and how to keep neighbours onside.
Read guideRecommended tools
Interactive tool
Building Regulations Checker
Answer a few short questions about your home improvement for an early, plain-English indication of whether Building Regulations approval is likely to be required.
Open tool Interactive toolExtension Feasibility Checker
Answer seven quick questions and see how likely planning permission, permitted development, building regulations and the Party Wall Act are for your extension.
Open tool Interactive toolAsk Mason: project checker
Describe your project and get tailored, plain-English guidance on the approvals, steps and risks that apply to your home.
Open toolYou may also need
- Planning permissionCheck whether your local authority needs to approve the design before work starts.Planning Permission Explained
- Building regulationsStructural, fire, insulation and safety standards apply to most building work.Planning Permission vs Building Regulations
- Structural workRemoving walls or adding openings needs calculations from a structural engineer.Building Regulations Explained
BuildGuide Project Packs provide general guidance for homeowners in England. They are not legal advice, a planning decision or a professional design.