Book excerpt: This complete guide to building your own home covers every step of the process. It includes advice on: how to select land ; design guidelines; the roles of professional consultants ; how to deal with the workings of control authorities ; preparing working drawings ;who's who of subcontracting and supply industries. Includes in detail the practical steps that owner-builders need to take to ensure their building meets the aims of local regulations in environmental efficiency. Also included are detailed drawings showing how all the components are assembled to achieve the home of your dreams.