Self-Build Help & Advice
Your guide to planning and building a timber frame home with English Brothers.
Thinking about a self-build but not sure where to begin? You’re not alone. Whether you’re still dreaming or already own a plot, we’re here to support you at every stage.
This Help Hub brings together everything you need to know to move forward with clarity and confidence - from finding land to understanding build options, planning permission, and sustainability.
Each section covers a key topic and links to more detailed advice. You don’t need to read everything at once - just dip in where you need support.
Register for your free copy today.
Below you find an outline of the contents of our Self-Build Help Hub. To receive your full, comprehensive copy of the hub, just fill in the simple form shown and you will receive the information immediately!
New to self-build? Here’s how to get going.
Starting your self-build journey can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. We’ll help you understand the process, clarify your goals, and decide what kind of support you’ll need. It all begins with a friendly, no-obligation Big Build Chat - your chance to ask questions and get honest advice.
What to look for, and how we can help.
The plot is the foundation of your project - and finding the right one is crucial. We offer plots for sale, and we also recommend using tools like PlotSearch to broaden your options. Our team can help you assess a plot’s suitability for a timber frame build, taking into account access, services, planning constraints and cost implications.
Shaping your future home around your lifestyle and your site.
Every English Brothers home is bespoke, and our design process reflects that. We work with you to create a layout that fits your family, your budget, and the quirks of your plot. We also take care of technical drawings, site constraints, and design considerations required for planning - but you’re free to use your own architect, of course (around 60% of our projects are based on that scenario).
A clear path through the red tape.
Planning permission can be one of the more stressful parts of a self-build - but you won’t be navigating it alone. We’ll help you understand what your local authority expects, prepare and submit drawings, and offer advice on how to give your application the best possible chance of approval.
Flexible options for every level of experience.
We know every customer is different. Some want full control, others prefer to hand over the reins. That’s why we offer flexible routes: supply-only, wind-and-watertight shell, or full project management through trusted partners. We’ll help you choose what’s right for you - and your budget.
What they mean, and how we achieve great results.
U-values measure how well your building retains heat. The lower the number, the better the insulation. Our timber frame systems consistently outperform standard targets, helping you create a home that’s warm, efficient, and compliant with the latest building regulations.
Better for your bills - and for the planet.
Timber frame homes are a sustainable choice by design. We’ll help you take it further, with options like high-performance insulation, airtight detailing, and renewable-ready design. Whether you’re aiming for low-energy living or full Passivhaus standards, we’re ready to support you.
Stay on track with realistic expectations.
Knowing what things cost - and when - is vital to a successful build. We’ll help you understand the major cost stages, how to get the most from your budget, and which elements are likely to shift over time. Our free Cost Calculator is a great place to begin.
Understand the timeline from first sketch to finished home.
From design and planning to frame manufacture and on-site assembly, we’ll guide you through each stage. We’ll give you realistic timelines and keep things transparent so there are no surprises - just steady progress.
Let’s talk about your plans.
The best way to move forward is often to talk things through. Whether you’ve found land, need help choosing a build route, or just want to explore your options, our team is happy to help.
Book a Discovery Call and take the first step toward your new home.
Book a Big Build Chat
Explore Plots for Sale
Try the Cost Calculator