Can't find a house you like or to suit your needs? Then why not be one of the 20,000 people every year 20,000 who decide to build their dream house themselves. Building your own home is a big undertaking but it's also a very exciting one. Commercial Director Rod MacEachrane of the National House Builders Confederation walks us through what's involved in taking on this kind of project.

Get planning permission. Before you buy a plot of land, make sure it holds valid outline planning permission. But remember this doesn't mean building will actually be possible. Land with consent can have restrictive covenants. Check them before you sign on the dotted line.

Organise a site appraisal of the land to assess its suitability to build on. Evidence of potential problems of previous use like old foundations, wells should arise from this report.

Become an expert get as much information as you can about all aspects of self building. There are countless books available on the subject along with magazines like Home Building and Renovating. The more you know the less likely you are to run into trouble.

Make a realistic budget be honest about what you can afford and that your plans don't exceed your financial limitations. Include a margin of at least 10 per cent to cover unforeseen expenses that may arise.

Shop around unless you're literally building the house yourself choose at least three building companies to give you written quotes for the work not just an estimate. Give each builder the same detailed written account of exactly what work is needed so you can compare like with like.

Draw up a contract the more detailed this is the better. It should outline work to be done, the terms of payment and start and finish dates. This document reduces many problems down the line.

Find yourself another builder if they make demands for cash or full payment in advance. Never pay before the work is completed satisfactorily.

Check references We've said it before and we'll say it again! Ask for names and contact numbers of previous clients and if possible visit their properties to check the workmanship. Two or three calls should be sufficient to give you an idea of the builder's competence.

Stick to the plan Avoid changing your mind about the work after the builder has started. This tends to make life difficult for the builder and will almost certainly add extra costs to your budget.

For more information log on to www.nhbc.co.uk