What is the Right to Build Register?
As part of the Self and Custom Build Housebuilding Act 2015, Right to Build legislation requires all local authorities within England and Wales to ensure there is adequate land provision for anyone looking to build their own home.
The Right to Build Register is a way for local authorities to keep track of both individuals and groups that are interested in self building within the area.
Why is it important?
The Right to Build Register is important because it helps to gauge local demand for self build properties. It also encourages local planning authorities to make better decisions on which applications to approve, so we can all benefit from better housing.
How to sign the Right to Build Register
Every local authority within England and Wales has its own Right to Build register, and is legally obliged to maintain a list of people and groups interested in building their own home. Local authorities also have a duty to publicise their register, so that the public can easily see how to apply. Most have a dedicated section on their websites to cover this, but these can often be hard to find.
To help make things simple, NaCSBA has set up a dedicated self build portal which allows you to easily search for your local Right to Build register, or registers for other areas that you’re interested in. You can apply to more than one register if you choose.
Once you’ve located your register you’ll be asked to fill out a questionnaire and you may also be asked to submit some documents to support your application. Local authorities run their own registers, so the questions and documents needed to apply can often differ. Some may be quick and easy, whilst others might be longer and more complex.
It’s important that you fill out the forms in full, and submit all required documents to ensure your application is successful. Your application will then be shared with the relevant local authority, and you’ll also be kept up to date with events and opportunities within the area.
Our Finding Land and Appraising a Plot course covers the Right to Build register in full detail, and has expert advice on securing your dream plot.
