For many people paying to get a house built is out of reach so some are taking on the job themselves to create a home they can afford. In a bid to ease the housing crisis, one Tasmanian architect has released free plans to the internet for others to download and use. But experts warn owner-builders need to consider the potential pitfalls to avoid costly mistakes.
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00:00On a rugged plot of land in Tasmania's Central Highlands, Josh Rayner is preparing for foundations.
00:10With a little help.
00:12Good job.
00:14He's in the early stages of building his family home.
00:17I grew up watching Grand Design UK, so I've just watched it all my life and I've always wanted to do it.
00:24And I just, yeah, the opportunity arose and I thought well why not, miles will try.
00:29Josh originally had a big and elaborate house designed, but the build came in way over budget.
00:36So after finding a free design online, he decided to try himself.
00:41Hopefully we can build it up and, you know, one day maybe our son Henry, he might want to take it on.
00:47The design is by Tasmanian architect Yiri Lev, who used it to construct his own house.
00:53It took six months to build, while also working part time.
00:57But it was entirely manageable. It wasn't something that, you know, anyone living on a farm is not accustomed to day in, day out.
01:04It came in at about $150,000.
01:07Kept low by avoiding imported materials and using what's available at local hardware stores.
01:13We're not trying to reinvent the wheel. We're trying to remind people what the wheel is.
01:18Mark Dewsbury is an architecture expert and also an owner builder. He says there are benefits.
01:25You generally have a bit more personal concern or care about how the building evolves.
01:31Whereas for a builder, it's a business transaction.
01:35Dr Dewsbury says owner builders can save considerable money, depending on how much they do themselves,
01:41but recommends a financial buffer of at least 10%.
01:45But the Housing Industry Association says construction is complex and builders do years of training.
01:52It warns do-it-yourself builds can work out more expensive, with people later turning to professionals to fix major problems,
02:00from structural integrity to waterproofing.
02:03Unless you're living and breathing this on a daily basis, you can get yourself into a lot of trouble.
02:09And then, you know, the consequences of that are very severe for owner builders.
02:15Mr Lev says anyone considering using his designs should seek professional advice.