Checklist "Preparing a Preliminary Estimate for Building a House"
This checklist will help future owners correctly prepare an estimate for building a house by breaking the process down into stages—from assessing the cost of land to registering property rights. It brings together key points: assessment of the cost of the plot and construction, calculations for utilities, landscaping and document processing costs, accounting for additional expenses, and planning payments. This approach prevents unnecessary spending and makes it easier to manage the process, ensuring the timely completion of construction.
1Step 1: Assessing the Cost of Land
Choosing a plot
Determine the desired location (city, suburb, village). Define your priorities: do you want to live in an urban environment with developed infrastructure, in a quiet suburb, or in a secluded village.
Take into account the proximity to the necessary infrastructure (schools, shops, transport). Evaluate the distance to schools, shops and transport hubs to ensure everyday convenience. You should also pay attention to the availability of public transport within walking distance.
Purchasing the land
Find out the market prices for land in the chosen area. Study real estate websites, listings and consult realtors. It is also useful to review data on sales of similar plots in this area.
Check the legal status of the plot (existence of encumbrances, building permits). Contact the cadastral register and the relevant courts to obtain information about encumbrances and the existence of building permits, in accordance with Article 2657 of the Italian Civil Code.
Assessing additional costs
Taxes on the purchase of land. Study the Tax Code, especially the articles concerning taxes on the transfer of property (Imposta di Registro, Imposta di Catasto), and also consult the local tax office.
Realtor services (if used). The cost of realtor services varies depending on the region and the particular agent, but usually amounts to 3–5% of the transaction amount, according to the guidelines of the Italian Federation of Professional Real Estate Agents (FIAIP).
Execution of the transaction (notarial services, registration of ownership). The cost of executing the transaction, including notarial services and registration of ownership, is determined on the basis of the Civil Code and notaries’ fees and usually ranges from 1% to 2% of the transaction price, depending on its complexity and the region.
It is important to understand that each of these points is interconnected. Choosing the right plot and correctly assessing the purchase of land help avoid financial losses and legal problems in the future. This makes it possible to take into account all additional costs such as taxes and infrastructure. It is also important for planning construction and complying with regulations.
2Step 2: Assessing the Cost of Building the House
Choosing a house design
Decide on the type of house (prefabricated frame, brick, wooden). Base your choice on preferences for materials, budget and climatic conditions, and also take into account the construction time and expected performance characteristics. It is also important to think through the long-term costs of maintenance and the energy efficiency of each type.
Choose a standard design or order an individual one from an architect. A standard house design will save time and money, as it has already been developed and tested. An individual design will make it possible to take all your wishes into account and create housing that meets your needs.
Preparing for construction
Preparing the construction site (levelling, clearing). Find out the cost of levelling the plot and clearing it of debris; this will allow you to optimize expenses in the future.
Purchasing building materials (concrete, wood, metal). Decide on the type of materials and estimate their cost. This is necessary for effective project budget planning and cost optimization.
Construction work
Foundation work. When estimating foundation work during house construction, it is important to take into account the quality of materials, the depth of the foundation and compliance with the technology of its construction.
Erection of walls and roof. For the calculation you need to determine the area of the walls and roof, the cost of materials and labour. You should also take into account additional expenses for insulation, finishing and other services.
Installation of windows and doors. You need to consider the price of the windows and doors themselves, as well as the cost of materials and the work of specialists.
Interior work
Electrical wiring. For the calculation you need to determine the total length of cables, the number of sockets and switches, their cost and the work of the electrician. You should also take into account additional expenses such as tools and fasteners.
Plumbing and sewerage. You need to determine the total costs for materials, the work of specialists and additional services such as design and approvals. It is also important to take into account possible additional costs for connection to utilities.
Heating and ventilation. Take into account expenses for materials, equipment, the work of specialists and additional services. You also need to consider the area of the premises and the chosen systems for a more accurate calculation.
Finishing work
Interior finishing (plaster, painting, wallpaper). Determine the area of the walls and ceilings, the cost of materials and labour for each type of finishing (plaster, painting, wallpaper). You also need to include additional expenses such as tools and preparatory work.
Floor coverings (laminate, parquet, tiles). Determine the area of the premises and the cost of the selected material. Do not forget to add the cost of additional materials and work if they are required.
It is important to understand that each of these aspects is crucial for forming the cost of building a house. This will help you take into account all the necessary materials, work and services in order to avoid unexpected expenses.
3Step 3: Connecting Utilities
Electricity
Laying and connecting electricity. The cost of laying and connecting electricity depends on the type of connection and the amount of capacity, and the exact rates can be found on the website of the distribution network operator and in the Rules on access to electricity networks (Delibera dell'Autorità per l'energia elettrica, il gas e il sistema idrico). It is also recommended to request a commercial offer that will specify all expenses.
Installation of meters and protective devices. The cost of installing meters and protective devices is regulated by local rules and the tariffs of electricity network companies and may vary depending on the type of equipment installed. For an accurate estimate, it is recommended to contact the energy company directly or consult a qualified electrician for a quote.
Water supply
Connection to the central water supply or installation of an autonomous system. The cost of connection to the central water supply or installation of an autonomous system is regulated by local tariffs and depends on the conditions of a particular area, which can be clarified with the local water supply company. It is recommended to request a commercial offer to obtain accurate information about expenses.
Installation of filters and meters. The cost of installing water filters and meters may be determined by local regulations and the rates of water supply companies. It is recommended to contact professional installers or your local company for a detailed estimate.
Sewerage
Connection to the central sewerage system or installation of a septic tank. The cost of connection to the central sewerage system or installation of a septic tank is regulated by local tariffs and standards. You need to take into account the price of materials, the work of specialists and possible additional expenses for permits and connection.
Regular maintenance services. Here you need to take into account the rates of local companies and the frequency of maintenance, as well as possible additional services such as cleaning or diagnostics.
Gas supply
Connection to the gas main or installation of a gas holder. Take into account expenses for design, materials, contractors’ work and permits. It is best to contact local gas companies to obtain accurate information about tariffs.
Installation of gas appliances (boilers, cookers). The cost of connection to the gas main or installation of a gas holder is regulated by local rules and tariffs. To obtain accurate information, it is recommended to contact local gas distribution companies or licensed installers. You should also take into account expenses for design, materials, contractors’ work and permits.
Following the checklist for calculating the cost of connecting utilities in a private house helps to avoid unexpected expenses and misunderstandings. It allows you to clearly understand which services and materials are needed and in what volume.
4Step 4: Landscaping the Site
Landscaping work
Greening (lawns, flower beds, trees). Determine the area of the plot, choose plants and materials, and then calculate the cost of purchasing and installing them. Also take into account the costs of maintenance in the first years.
Laying paths and paved areas (paving stones, tiles). Calculate the paving area, the cost of the material (paving stones or tiles) and the cost of work.
Fencing and gates
Installing a fence along the perimeter of the plot. Measure the perimeter of the plot, determine the material and calculate expenses for it and for labour.
Installation of gates and wickets. Decide on the type and size of the gates and wicket, choose the material and find out the cost of the work.
Lighting
Outdoor lighting (lamps, floodlights). Determine the number and type of lamps or floodlights, their price and the cost of installation work.
Lighting for paths and the facade. Add up expenses for materials (lights, cables, transformers) and the work of the electrician, as well as additional costs for installation and design.
With the help of this checklist you can organize the landscaping process more efficiently, avoid unnecessary expenses and create a comfortable space around the house. It is a convenient tool for every owner who wants to improve their plot.
5Step 5: Processing Documentation
Legal support
Legal services for processing transactions and obtaining permits. Contact several law firms for consultations and preliminary estimates.
Verification of all documents for compliance with legal requirements. The cost is determined depending on the amount of work and the specifics of the project; the exact amount can be obtained from licensed architects or engineers.
Obtaining permits and approvals
Building permit. A building permit can be obtained by submitting the project to the municipality and paying the relevant fees. The cost of the permit varies depending on the region and the characteristics of the project and usually ranges from several hundred to several thousand euros.
Approval of project documentation with local authorities. Approval of project documentation with local authorities requires submitting an application and may cost 1–2% of the total construction cost. The process includes checking that the project documentation complies with urban planning regulations and may take from several weeks to several months depending on the complexity of the project.
Registration of property rights
Registration of the house in state registers. Registration of the house in state registers is carried out at the Cadastral Office (Catasto) after construction is completed and all necessary permits have been obtained. The cost of registration is about 1–2% of the cadastral value of the property, and the process itself may take several weeks.
Obtaining the cadastral passport and technical plan. Obtaining the cadastral passport and technical plan for the house is done through the Cadastral Office (Catasto). The cost of the service varies but usually ranges from 50 to 150 euros, depending on the complexity of the request and the area.
The checklist for determining the cost of processing documentation for a private house helps to systematize all the necessary stages and expenses in order to avoid unexpected costs and simplify the process of obtaining permits. It serves as a reference point for owners, allowing them to better plan their budget and time.
6Step 6: Accounting for Additional Expenses
Furnishing
Purchasing furniture for all rooms. Draw up a list of the necessary furniture with prices and add up the total cost.
Furniture assembly and installation services. Find out the cost of the work of the specialist and the price of the necessary materials, if they are required.
Decorating
Purchase of decorative elements (curtains, carpets, accessories). Determine the number of decorative elements needed and add up their total cost.
Interior designer services. Consult several specialists and ask them to prepare a commercial offer indicating the cost.
Landscaping work
Design and creation of a garden. Take into account the cost of plants, materials, labour and the services of a landscape designer.
Gardener services. Find out the cost of services and what they include from several providers and choose the best option.
The checklist for calculating additional expenses helps to systematize costs and avoid unexpected financial surprises when arranging the house and plot.
7Step 7: Reserving Funds for Contingency Expenses
Creating a reserve fund
Set aside a share of the total budget to create a reserve fund (usually 10–15%). This is necessary to cover unforeseen expenses and ensure financial stability during construction.
Transfer this money to a separate account.
Unforeseen situations
Costs for correcting construction defects.
Additional activities that were not provided for in the original project documentation.
The checklist for reserving funds for unforeseen expenses in house construction is needed to systematize and plan the budget so as to take potential additional costs into account and avoid financial problems during construction.
8Step 8: Planning Stages of Financing
Stages of financing
- Purchase of the plot.
- Start of construction work (pouring the foundation, erecting the walls).
- Completion of key stages of construction (installation of the roof, installation of windows and doors).
- Carrying out interior finishing and connecting engineering systems.
- Landscaping the site and processing documentation.
Planning payments
Determine at which phases of the project significant financial resources will be needed.
Divide the budget by stages to prevent a shortage of funds during construction.
Planning the stages of financing when building a house is necessary for the efficient allocation of resources, cost control, risk minimization and ensuring the timely completion of the project. This helps to avoid financial difficulties and delays in construction.
This checklist will become your reliable assistant in the process of creating a preliminary estimate for building a house. It covers all important aspects and possible expenses, which will allow you to analyse each stage of construction in detail. By using this tool, you will be able to plan your financial resources more effectively, which will help you avoid unforeseen expenses and financial difficulties in the future.
Instructions for using the checklist:
- Familiarize yourself with the checklist. Go through all the items to understand the upcoming stages.
- Adapt it to your project. Make sure all the items correspond to your plan and add any necessary details.
- Complete the steps in the prescribed order. Follow the sequence of actions, marking completed tasks.
- Monitor quality. Compare the work performed with the project documentation and plan.
- Record the process. Keep all important documents at each stage (contracts, permits, certificates).
- Seek advice. If necessary, consult lawyers, architects or engineers.
- Regularly monitor the budget. Keep track of expenses to avoid overspending.
By following these recommendations, you will simplify the process and increase the likelihood of successfully completing the construction.
