Building Permits: The Guide to Start Building Your Home

Building a house from scratch is an exciting yet complex project that requires meticulous planning and a clear understanding of rules and regulations. When developing a vacant plot, it’s crucial to take the right steps to avoid unnecessary mistakes or delays. Feasibility studies and obtaining building permits are central to this process. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps for starting a new build, focusing on land management and allotment.

The Feasibility Study: a Fundamental Step

Before breaking ground, conducting a feasibility study is essential. This involves a detailed analysis of the land’s opportunities and constraints. Key considerations include:

Land Characteristics: Understanding soil quality, drainage, and elevation;
Site Accessibility: Evaluating road access and connectivity;
Infrastructure Availability: Assessing nearby utilities such as water, electricity, and sewage;
Zoning Regulations: Ensuring compliance with local planning rules.

By working with STRAstudio, you gain access to professional, in-depth evaluations that minimise risks during construction. A thorough feasibility study provides a clear understanding of the land’s potential and limitations, enabling informed decisions about the type of home you can build.

Allotment: Planning and Regulatory Compliance

Building on vacant land often requires allotment, which involves dividing the property into buildable lots and creating necessary infrastructure like roads, sewer systems, and green spaces. This process must be approved by the local council and adhere to specific regulations to ensure cohesive and sustainable land development.

Allotment is a vital stage as it establishes the groundwork for construction. A council-approved allotment plan must align with the local master plan (Piano Regolatore Generale, PRG) and zoning laws. This ensures that the development meets community and environmental standards while supporting harmonious urban planning.

Building Permits: An Essential Requirement

A building permit is a mandatory authorisation issued by the City Council that confirms your construction plans comply with regulations. To obtain one, you’ll need to submit various documents, including:

The architectural design;
The feasibility study;
The allotment plan (if applicable).

The application process varies by location and often requires certified professionals like architects and engineers. STRAstudio’s expertise ensures all paperwork is accurate and submitted on time, minimising delays and complications.

Preparing an Executive Project

Once the necessary permits are approved, the focus shifts to preparing the executive project. This stage involves defining every detail of the construction process, including:

Interior Layout: Room configurations and functionality;
Exterior Design: Facade, landscaping, and overall aesthetics;
Materials and Systems: Selection of sustainable materials and energy-efficient systems.

STRAstudio provides end-to-end support during this phase, delivering innovative and customised solutions that balance design, functionality, and environmental considerations.

Three Steps for a Smooth Construction Process

Before construction begins, following these three steps can make the process much smoother:

Budget Planning: A well-executed feasibility study provides a clear cost estimate, but it’s wise to include a margin for unforeseen expenses;
Rely on Qualified Professionals: Skilled professionals are critical to a project’s success. STRAstudio’s multidisciplinary team supports you at every stage, ensuring quality and precision;
Monitor Timelines: Detailed time management helps prevent delays. Creating a comprehensive schedule and tracking progress ensures everything stays on track.

Your Dream Home Starts Here

Building your dream home requires expertise, precision, and careful planning. With STRAstudio by your side, you’ll benefit from complete professional support, ensuring compliance with regulations and a seamless realisation of your vision.