# SELF-BUILD CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT
Date: 12 September 2033
Parties: Elena Morris and Hartwell Build Ltd
## 1. Purpose and parties
Elena Morris appoints Hartwell Build Ltd under this contract dated 12 September 2033 to construct a two-storey home at 14 Willow Rise, York YO24 3LF. Hartwell is the contractor and Elena is the employer; the contractor must coordinate its subcontractors but remains responsible for its contractual work.
## 2. Facts, scope and terms
The contract price is £186,000 including VAT for the drawings, labour, plant and materials in Schedule 1, but excluding statutory utility connection charges and approved variations. The employer will pay £18,600 on signing, then £46,500 at foundations, £55,800 at watertight shell, £46,500 at first fix, and £18,600 at practical completion.
## 3. Process and responsibilities
Work starts on 2 October 2033 and the target practical-completion date is 30 June 2034. Hartwell must obtain or coordinate required building-control inspections, follow the approved plans and Building Regulations, keep the site reasonably safe, and protect neighbouring property; Elena must provide access, decisions and information without unreasonable delay.
## 4. Evidence, records and safeguards
A change is binding only when described and priced in a written variation signed by both parties. A variation that increases the price by £12,000 and adds 14 days must therefore be agreed before work changes. Hartwell may not charge for an omission, substitution or unforeseen condition without the written instruction and price mechanism.
## 5. Review, escalation and outcome
Hartwell must give seven days' notice of an inspection for each stage. Elena may withhold a genuinely disputed amount on written reasons, but must pay the undisputed sum. On practical completion, the parties will record outstanding minor items in a snagging list; occupation or use alone does not waive latent defects.
## 6. Reservations and practical protections
Hartwell will correct notified defects arising from its work for 12 months after practical completion within a reasonable period, subject to fair access. It is not responsible for damage caused by Elena's unauthorised changes or normal wear. Hartwell must maintain public liability insurance of £5 million and employers' liability insurance as legally required.
## 7. England and Wales law and completion
Either party may terminate for an uncured material breach after 10 business days' notice, and Elena may terminate immediately for insolvency or abandonment. This contract is governed by England and Wales law, preserves statutory rights and does not guarantee planning approval. The parties should obtain independent advice on title, insurance, tax and building control.