DIY Materials in Home Building: Is It Worth It?

When building a new home, it’s natural to want to save money wherever possible.

One common idea is to supply your own materials, thinking it might cut costs.

But is this really the best choice?

Let’s explore the pros and cons of owner-supplied materials.

Firstly, the perceived advantage is clear.

Homeowners believe they can save some money by purchasing materials themselves.

However, the reality is far more complex.

One major downside is the warranty issue.

When you buy materials, the warranty often starts from the date of purchase, not the date of installation.

Imagine buying kitchen appliances on sale and storing them in your garage.

Ten months later, your builder is ready to install them.

By then, most of the warranty period has already expired.

If something goes wrong after you move in, you could be left without warranty coverage.

For instance, if your oven breaks down four months after installation, you might have to bear the repair costs yourself.

Another problem is what happens if something needs repair.

Say you bought a kitchen mixer tap and the builder installed it.

Three months after moving in, the tap starts leaking.

Since the builder didn’t supply it, you’re responsible for getting it fixed.

Had the builder supplied it, they would handle the repair for you.

Insurance is another critical factor.

Builders often can’t insure owner-supplied items because many insurers won’t allow it.

This means your materials aren’t covered.

While this might not matter for small items, it’s a significant risk for larger ones, like a suite of kitchen appliances.

When a builder supplies all materials, they are included in the builder’s insurance policy.

So, what’s the takeaway?

While supplying your own materials might seem like a good way to save money, it can lead to unexpected costs and headaches.

At ST Construct, we handle everything for you.

We ensure all materials are covered by warranty and insurance, giving you peace of mind.

Ready to start your journey to a new home?

First, download our FREE ebook, '10 Questions to Ask Yourself Before You Begin'. This guide will help you gain the confidence and peace of mind you need to start your home-building journey.

Get your copy today: Download the Ebook.