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Original poster

1974 self build, no plans available

43 replies

propertypitfalls · 31/05/2023 16:49

We're considering offering on a bungalow but would really like to garner opinions on whether we should just run in the opposite direction.

The bungalow isn't pretty, is made up of 15 hexagons but is on a nice plot with good views and is not overlooked.

Our plan was to open up the living space to make a big living/kitchen/diner, convert the garage to a hall at the front and workroom at the back. We've hit a snag because we can't find plans for it. The build was a self build in 1974 - our Council has shredded everything. It's non-standard (built on a concrete raft) and has 15 conical felt roof sections.

Our problem is that all walls are stud, so probably has steels within it to support the roof (felt) but we can't find out unless we buy it, so it feels like a big risk. Additionally, our builder said if the supports are steel they're probably surrounded by asbestos (most homes from this era are, apparently). We've had a sample of the roof lining sent off for asbestos checking, waiting for the result to come back, but we'd have to factor in asbestos removal.

If we knew how many supports there were it would be easier to make the decision, but without even basic plans it feels like we can't really work out what would be a reasonable offer. We don't need a mortgage (retirement purchase - we downsized last January) and this is the first property that's come up where we've both thought we could happily live there.

Does anyone know if self builders would lodge plans with the conveyancing documents? Or is it possible to 'reverse engineer' and work out the plans that way? Unfortunately the lady who owns the property is elderly and has no idea about the construction, or the plans as they bought it in 1984.

OP posts:
C4tastrophe · 31/05/2023 16:59

Turn around, and walk away.

AndrexPuppy · 31/05/2023 17:01

That roof would have me walking away

Diyextension · 31/05/2023 20:31

I’m intrigued….sounds like something out of grand designs ….. any pictures? A link ?

It could be timber frame with no steel at all ?

our current house was self built in 79 but it’s standard construction ( brick/ block) but I’ve not found any asbestos at all , no artex, pipe lagging or so.

the only thing you could do is buy it then rip a load of plasterboard off and go from there. Until you can see what your actually looking at then everyone would just be guessing.

it sounds great . I love houses that are a bit different especially ones that are all on one level.

Original poster
propertypitfalls · 31/05/2023 21:19

Here's the link. I have to say it's a nice plot with lovely views. The reason it's been built as hexagons is because there's a massive tree on the plot with a TPO, so the property was built to fit the tree.

https://www.rightmove.co.uk/properties/134771279#/?channel=RES_BUY

Check out this 4 bedroom detached bungalow for sale on Rightmove

4 bedroom detached bungalow for sale in Verner Road, Hartlepool, TS24 for £299,995. Marketed by igomove, Hartlepool

https://www.rightmove.co.uk/properties/134771279#/?channel=RES_BUY

OP posts:
007DoubleOSeven · 31/05/2023 21:24

Wow, I can see why you're tempted! Massive potential.

In your shoes, I'd guesstimate a cost for all the work that could foreseeably need doing, add 50% and decide if that would be affordable.

If it is - go for it!

If not, let someone else have the pleasure.

BigShoutyRaven · 31/05/2023 21:24

https://www.architecture.com/awards-and-competitions-landing-page/awards/riba-regional-awards/riba-east-midlands-award-winners/2022/ravine-house

It reminds me of this, it was on Grand Designs House of the Year - best transformation 2022.

Original poster
propertypitfalls · 31/05/2023 21:34

I do love it! However opening it all up would make such a difference to the living space (each flat bit of wall is only 1.6m wide!). But for two of us it's doable. We've been in a small flat for over a year waiting for something to come up, and this is the first one we've been enthusiastic about. I'm not really worried about the asbestos - that can be removed. It's about opening the space up. I do love quirky!

OP posts:
Original poster
propertypitfalls · 31/05/2023 21:34

I'm so pleased I'm not the only one who loves it 😍

OP posts:
Original poster
propertypitfalls · 31/05/2023 21:36

The roof is really clever - it has fibreglass guttering and the fall drops into the very green pond. Up until 2 years ago the pond had koi carp and waterlilies. It's definitely been a much loved home and has a lovely feel to it

OP posts:
Original poster
propertypitfalls · 31/05/2023 21:37

BigShoutyRaven · 31/05/2023 21:24

Love that house! Thanks @BigShoutyRaven

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MrsMoastyToasty · 31/05/2023 21:41

I don't like the property and I would be concerned about how close the tree is to the building. If it came down in a storm the place would be flattened and I expect the roots extend under the foundations.

I would only buy it for the land.

BronwenFrideswide · 31/05/2023 21:47

It's very quirky and I can see why you would want to open it up, the shapes of the rooms don't lend themselves very well to some of their functions.

I would be wary re the construction, asbestos possibility, I have a horrible feeling that once you started removing walls etc., you would uncover a whole heap of expensive problems.

SlightlygrumpyBettyswaitress · 31/05/2023 21:59

I love 1970s buildings, it reminds me of the brand new primary school I went to....in 1974.

ScottBakula · 31/05/2023 21:59

I would wait till the asbestos report comes back the figure out the removal cost and add 30% .
I would also be concerned about the felt roof , I don't think they have a long life span .
It would look better thatched too I think. 😉

But I do really like it !

TeenTraumaTrials · 31/05/2023 22:01

MrsMoastyToasty · 31/05/2023 21:41

I don't like the property and I would be concerned about how close the tree is to the building. If it came down in a storm the place would be flattened and I expect the roots extend under the foundations.

I would only buy it for the land.

I was going to say this. That tree is so close to the house there is real potential for problems. We have a similar size tree about twice as far from our garage and the roots are causing issues but only there (so far). Ours is a late 60's build.

Original poster
propertypitfalls · 31/05/2023 22:21

TeenTraumaTrials · 31/05/2023 22:01

I was going to say this. That tree is so close to the house there is real potential for problems. We have a similar size tree about twice as far from our garage and the roots are causing issues but only there (so far). Ours is a late 60's build.

Show quote history

@MrsMoastyToasty @TeenTraumaTrials It's built on a concrete poured raft which is extremely deep to allow for protection from the tree roots. One of the neighbours is 84 and remembers when it was approved as he was a friend of the original builder. They always joked that if the roots came through he could sue the council. There's definitely no signs of root issues.

It's a miracle that no branches have landed on the roof, but as a garden development it's surrounded by other buildings so quite well protected from the wind.

OP posts:
C4tastrophe · 31/05/2023 22:24

Absolutely no. It looks due to be pulled down, and has that prefab feel about it.
The tree with the TPO makes the plot very difficult. No floor plan, no EPC, no plans.
It doesn’t even look in good condition.
You are literally paying for a massive liability now and in years to come.

Kimchikeffir · 31/05/2023 22:32

love it, instead of opening up the hexagons could you enclose an outside area? Asbestos shouldn’t be a problem if it is contained in the walls

TakeMyStrongHand · 31/05/2023 22:58

I don't have an answer but it's amazing!

AIBUprobablyNot · 31/05/2023 23:04

Just go for it, it's incredible. Looks like the previous owners loved it, enjoyed it & cared for it for many years.

MySoCalledWife · 31/05/2023 23:08

Could it be just a wooden frame built house?

would you be ok with that?

goodness what a risk 😬

Mosaic123 · 31/05/2023 23:08

Wow, it's stunning. If my budget was much larger than the asking price and the ceiling price of the area was much higher I'd be very tempted indeed.

Are you happy with the location? It's not very near a station. Could you live there if you couldn't drive?

Nousernamesleftatall · 31/05/2023 23:12

I love it. We bought a house built in late 60’s. No plans. I wouldn’t expect them though that far back.

Throwncrumbs · 31/05/2023 23:14

It’s given e a headache Loki g at the pics tbh. Look like a retirement home from the outside. It’s a no from me !

Diyextension · 31/05/2023 23:17

It does look like a great plot, it’s looking a bit unloved but with an elderly owner that’s not surprising…. Seems to be in good condition.

Its definitely in need of re jig inside as some of the rooms seem a small/ odd shape and I would build a separate garage and then use the old garage space for more scope on the. Internal layout.

With some clever thinking/ lintels/ steelwork you could probably remove some of the walls without disturbing the roof ?

The tree is an atlas cedar by the looks of it. Nice if you like shade in the summer but they do drop a lot of needles

im not sure of the property prices around there but 300k ( you might get it cheaper) looks good value.