Learn about the 3 zoning questions you should ask before building a custom waterfront home.
If you’ve always dreamed of owning a house on the water, a custom waterfront home is a great investment! A home on the water offers many benefits, but the process of building a waterfront home can be more complicated than building elsewhere. There are a lot of factors to keep in mind, and you may have a lot of questions for your builder. T&G Builders has been a premier waterfront custom home builder for over 25 years, and we can answer any questions to ensure you get the custom waterfront home of your dreams.
Can I Build Anywhere On My Waterfront Property?
Building on a waterfront lot is very different than building on a lot in a residential neighborhood, as there are many factors to consider. For example, one of the main problems that home builders run into is the preservation of wetlands, which includes the protection of specific wildlife. This is just one example of why it’s crucial to obtain specialist reviews for your waterfront lot. Reports including soil, stability, and flood plans are required for getting a permit that allows you to build your custom home. A geotechnical engineer will do a study of the soil, slope conditions, and erosion history to ensure you choose a safe place to build. Also, a building department official will determine the ‘ordinary high water mark’ of waterfront property to establish how close you can build your home to the water. All of these factors are crucial in choosing the safest spot to place your new home.
Is My Lot Big Enough For Building?
While you may think your waterfront lot has plenty of room for building, zoning restrictions can affect where you’re able to build on your property. Most government jurisdictions will set a limit to the amount of building you can do on a property, including the home, driveway, and decks. This is known as your ‘allowable lot coverage,’ and it is crucial to have the help of a professional to ensure you do not exceed this limit.
Should I Be Worried About Flood Zones?
Another consideration for your waterfront home is if your property is on a FEMA designated flood zone. Flood zones shouldn’t deter you from building your dream home, but it is crucial to understand all of the possible costs and risks associated with coastal living first. If you choose to build in flood zone areas, there are specialty materials that are required, as well as much higher insurance rates than on a standard landlocked lot.
Build Your Dream Custom Home With T&G Builders
T&G Builders, located in Berlin, MD, has been a premier waterfront custom home builder and home improvement contractor serving Worcester and Sussex Counties for over 25 years. We are a locally owned and operated business known for our uncompromising commitment to quality, our passion for using innovative technology and premium materials to complete projects, and our exceptional attention to detail. In addition to building custom homes, we also specialize in remodeling your current house into your dream home! Our skilled team can assess your needs, determine the right design for your addition or improvement, and complete the entire construction process.
To see what your dream home could look like and receive a free home design, contact us today! Don’t forget to follow T&G Builders on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Houzz.