What to Check in a House Design Before Construction Starts

Before starting, check coordination rather than simply whether drawings exist. One unresolved entry or junction can affect several trades.

Plot, ground and foundation

Align boundaries, levels and access with the building location. Check that foundations respond to investigation, water and loads.

Trace thermal and airtight boundaries. Plinths, floors and penetrations need details that can be built and inspected.

Coordinate openings, frames, supports, shading and seals. Check roof drainage, penetrations and possible future PV fixings.

Check equipment space, routes, noise and filter access. Heating selection should follow loads; summer operation needs its own assessment.

Align backup circuits with pumps, ventilation and controls. Water and drainage need coordinated entries, levels and maintenance access.

All trades should use one current document set. Plan concealed-work inspections before covering, rather than after defects appear.

ZeroHouse assessment diagram; not a construction detail.

Use the project checklist as an action list with named owners. An empty entry means an unresolved question, not an absence of risk.

Checked: 2026-09-09. Editorial guidance; not evidence of compliance for an individual building.