Building Setbacks: How They Could Affect Your Home’s Size and Layout

You might be wondering what building setbacks are supposed to be. While it is true that you could run into set backs (as in obstacles such as delays and foul weather conditions) during the actual construction process, in terms of real estate, setbacks mean something else entirely. Unfortunately, they play a major role in shaping the lot on which you construct your custom home. How can it affect the size and layout of the house you want? Well, in case you were wondering, we have some answers! 

A Quick Definition 

Since the definition of a setback in this context is not well-known it’s helpful, to begin with, a quick look at what it really means. Setbacks have to do with surveys, site plans, and plats. Because of zoning reasons, you will need to carefully evaluate where your new home will go. Nearby streets, alleyways, roads, and property lines all play a part in determining where the setback line will be placed. They keep houses and other residential structures far enough apart to help prevent fires and also make easements easier to access.  

Guidelines Based On Where You Live 

Guidelines in southern Delaware are bound to be different than similar regulations found in bordering states such as Maryland, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey. After all, these rules will have an impact on major decisions such as remodeling, home additions, and accessory structures such as detached garages, tool sheds, and guest houses. Consult with county officials and the homeowners’ association you belong to so that you won’t end up making a decision you will come to regret. 

Avoid Making a Big Mistake 

With this factor in mind, figuring out where setbacks and easements are located will save you plenty of time and money. Easements anywhere on your property or adjacent to it are typically set aside for necessary purposes: 

• Easier fire access;
• The confluence of power lines;
• Drainage and water runoff;
• Maintenance reasons

Regardless of how building setbacks define the buildable area for your custom home, be sure to keep in touch with your local zoning permit office. That said, do your research and seek help from your builder who is an expert in navigating the process of getting your dream home quite literally off the ground.  

Contact Accessible Home Builders Today

Here at Accessible Home Builders, we’re proud to say we’ve been building and remodeling homes since 1994. In that time, we’ve serviced the areas of Rehoboth Beach, Lewes, Selbyville, Seaford, Millsboro, Georgetown, Laurel, and more communities within Delaware. We work to guarantee a high level of professionalism, dedication, and the use of quality materials to ensure our customers have the home they deserve.

To get in touch with us, give us a call at our office at 302-663-0464, send us an email at info@accessiblehomebuilders.com or visit us in person at 28412 DuPont Blvd, #103 Millsboro, DE 19966. Alternatively, give our satellite office a call at 302-628-9571, which is located at 500 W. Stein Hwy. Seaford, DE 19973. Be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and YouTube to stay updated on what we’re up to next!

We are proud to be recognized as “Southern Delaware’s Best Home Remodeling” Company for 2020 by Metropolitan Magazine.  We work hard every day to provide quality workmanship and service to create that new space or the new look you want in your home.  Call us today to discuss your next project.