Building Construction

After all design and legal documents/certificates are ready, the first step of actual construction, site preparation begins, which is composed of site clearance, site setout and site excavations for footings and foundations. Also, the preparation of services to the site is also included in this stage.

Site clearance is the removal of existing trees, underground roots and any other vegetation from the site. Before clearing, the site should be fenced or cut of access to keep the public away for security reason. Check with the local authorities to ensure if there is old or existing water, gas or sewer lines passing through the site. To haul away the debris after clearing is a problem because it is expensive. Choosing to bury or burn it in some areas might be a good choice after consulting with the relevant authorities. To remove and keep the topsoil of high quality alongside to a distance of approximately three metres from the construction area is wise for future use in landscaping.

Another problem needing to be considered while clearing the site is “sediment control” or “erosion control” - to pay special attention to prevent the runoff of the mud/sediments on the cleared site from falling onto and “eroding” the adjacent roads and existing neighbouring property or into drains and waterways.

Go through the factors that will take effect on the building setout, such as setbacks and easements, topography, driveway/pedestrian, the relationship/distance to other houses in the area/neighborhood that will directly affect the sun’s exposure time, and street views you like.

Peg out the building footprint according to the design drawings. Locate a boundary corner and peg it, then run a string line (front building line) parallel to the front boundary line. Locate the first corner point (Peg 1 above) at the building line simply by measuring the proper distance from the side boundary line. Peg 2 is located