What to Consider When Choosing Land to Build On in Colorado

Building a new home is an exciting venture, but selecting the right piece of land can make or break your project. In Colorado, where natural beauty and varying landscapes offer unique opportunities and challenges, making an informed choice is crucial. Here are some essential factors to consider:

1. Water Availability

In Colorado, water is a critical resource. Before purchasing land, ensure you have a clear understanding of its water rights and availability. Consider the following:

• Water Rights: Verify if the land has existing water rights or if you will need to secure them.

• Water Source: Determine if there’s access to a reliable water source such as a well, municipal supply, or irrigation rights.

2. Utilities

Check if the land has access to essential utilities:

• Electricity and Gas: Confirm the availability of electricity and gas connections or the feasibility of installing them.

• Water and Sewer: Ensure there is access to municipal water and sewer systems, or if you’ll need to install a well and septic system.

3. Access Road

Consider the accessibility of the property:

• Road Access: Verify if there is an existing road or access path to the property.

• Road Maintenance: Understand who is responsible for maintaining the road and how this may affect your construction plans.

4. Zoning Regulations

Make sure the land is zoned for your intended use:

• Zoning Requirements: Check local zoning laws to ensure you can build the type of structure you envision.

• Future Land Use: Research any planned developments or zoning changes that might impact your property in the future.

5. Tree Removal

Assess the number of trees that may need to be removed:

• Tree Survey: Conduct a survey to identify which trees are in the way of your construction plans.

• Cost of Removal: Factor in the cost of tree removal and disposal into your budget.

6. Septic System

If the property is not connected to a municipal sewer system:

• Septic Capacity: Ensure the land can accommodate a septic system that meets the needs of your future home.

• Permits and Regulations: Check for any permits required and the regulations governing septic systems in your area.

7. Ground Grading and Slope

Evaluate the land’s topography and its impact on your construction:

• Ground Grading: Determine if the ground needs grading to make it suitable for building. Uneven terrain may require significant preparation.

• Slope for Walkout Basement: If you plan to include a walkout basement, check if the slope of the land is adequate. A proper slope is essential for designing an effective walkout basement and for ensuring proper drainage.

8. Material Transport and Weather Conditions

Consider the logistics of transporting materials to the site:

• Access for Delivery: Evaluate how easy it is for delivery trucks and construction vehicles to access the property. Steep or narrow roads can complicate material transport.

• Weather Impact: Harsh weather conditions, such as snow, ice, or heavy rain, can significantly impact the delivery and handling of construction materials. Assess how the local weather might affect construction timelines and costs.

• Winter and Rainy Season Challenges: In snowy or rainy conditions, transportation and on-site handling can become more challenging. Plan for potential delays and ensure that your contractor is prepared to handle these issues.

9. Expansive Soils

Consider the presence of expansive soils, which can impact the foundation of your home:

• Soil Testing: Conduct a soil test to determine if the land has expansive soils. These soils can expand and contract with changes in moisture, potentially causing foundation problems.

• Foundation Design: If expansive soils are present, your foundation design may need to include special measures to accommodate soil movement and prevent damage.

• Cost Implications: Be aware of the additional costs associated with addressing expansive soils, including potential modifications to your foundation and construction methods.

Conclusion

Choosing the right piece of land to build on in Colorado involves careful consideration of several key factors. From ensuring adequate water resources and utility access to understanding zoning laws, tree removal costs, ground grading needs, and the impact of expansive soils, thorough research and planning are essential. By addressing these considerations, you can pave the way for a successful and enjoyable building project.

Contact us today to discuss your land selection and construction needs. Our team at Stonebrook Construction Group is here to guide you through every step of your building journey.