What Should I Look for During a Pre-Drywall Walkthrough?

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What’s hiding inside the walls? Everything! Let’s meet on site to take a look, when your build is underway.

There’s a reason I get excited about the pre-drywall stage—this is where the bones of your home start telling their story. I’m Phil, and I’ll be guiding your custom home build with Travars Built Homes.  While I’ll be walking you through this in person during your build, I wanted to share a few things ahead of time. Here’s what I look for (and what you can, too).

There’s something powerful about watching your custom home coming together as we walk through each phase of the project.

The pre-drywall walk-through is one of my favorite tech talk opportunities, before we give the go-ahead to the drywall crew to close off the view of the components tucked inside your framing that make everything work.

As a build phase, what’s behind the walls is just as important as deciding on that perfect shade of paint, or counter top color.

The time we spend together at your pre-drywall walkthrough provides the opportunity to see and ask about the systems intertwined to work together within your walls (and an opportunity to know where not to drill when you hang your TV, artwork and photos.)

I’ll be at your side to answer questions about “rough-ins” that will give your home life, such as:

  • HVAC (central forced air with a heat pump and zoning) – the lungs of your home that pump hot and cold air to keep everything comfortable.
  • Plumbing – Warm showers on a cold day. Or that cold shower after a run(maybe that’s just me). And, of course, the sanitation system. You’ll be choosing faucets soon!
  • Electrical – the wiring that will light up your home and provide the “go” for whatever is plugged into sockets.

Pre-drywall activity is a transformative phase of the build – the feeling of a structure truly starting to feel like Home.

It’s like watching a plot point in a movie, where you start to see things come together. I’m a visual person, so this really sets the stage of everything to come.

We’ll get this on calendar in your online portal right after the county inspector’s approval for this phase of the build.

See you there!

– Phil, Travars Built Homes

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    Walk In Pantry with Built Ins | Mebane NC New Homes

    Why the Scullery Pantry is a Must-Have Kitchen Feature in Today’s Custom Homes

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    See why scullery pantries are in high demand—and how four custom home plans bring this must-have feature to life

    Home design trends are evolving to meet the needs of modern living—and one of the most talked-about features in custom homes today is the scullery pantry.

    Often hidden just out of sight, a scullery pantry (also called a scullery kitchen, prep kitchen, or prep pantry) is a walk-in pantry located adjacent to the main kitchen designed to house additional storage, countertop space, and appliances for a clean, clutter-free kitchen. At Travars Built Homes, we’re seeing growing demand for sculleries in custom builds, especially for homeowners who love to entertain or want to keep daily tasks behind closed doors.

    What is a Scullery Pantry?

    Historically, a scullery was a space used for washing dishes and preparing food, separate from the main kitchen. Today, it is essentially a walk-in pantry that does more. While a traditional pantry typically offers shelving for dry goods and kitchen supplies, a scullery pantry takes it a step further by including features like:

    • Closed doors or pocket entries to keep messes hidden
    • A second sink and/or dishwasher
    • Small appliances like mixers or coffee stations
    • Pantry storage with cabinetry and shelving
    • Additional countertop space for meal prep

    In many custom homes, the scullery is positioned directly off the kitchen with a door or pocket entry to hide the mess while cooking or entertaining. Think of it as a miniature second kitchen that allows your main kitchen to shine.

    Walk In Pantry with Built Ins | Mebane NC New Homes

    Why Homeowners Love Scullery Pantries

    Scullery kitchens offer practical benefits and luxurious convenience:

    • Perfect for Entertaining and Hosting: Keep dishes, prep, and clean-up out of sight while hosting guests in your open-concept space.
    • Streamlined Living: Store small appliances, bulk groceries, and supplies without cluttering your main kitchen.
    • Everyday Organization: Assign zones for meal prep, storage, and cleanup so your primary kitchen stays calm and collected.

    Plans Featuring Scullery Kitchens

    At Travars Built Homes, scullery pantries can be custom-designed into most layouts—just ask! Here are four popular floor plans where a scullery is already included or easily customizable into the design:

    Nordic Ridge

    This modern Scandinavian-style plan blends sleek design with thoughtful function. The scullery pantry—tucked discreetly behind the kitchen—keeps everyday tasks out of the open-concept living areas, while adding serious storage and prep space. Clean lines meet quiet convenience in this high-functioning layout.

    Rendering Copyright ArchitecturalDesigns.com & Associates
    Floorplan Copyright ArchitecturalDesigns.com & Associates

    Wembley Place

    The Wembley Place plan offers charm and sophistication with classic farmhouse appeal. Its generous scullery pantry is ideally located between the kitchen and mudroom, providing a seamless transition for grocery drop-off, prep, and storage. It’s a workhorse behind the scenes that keeps the spotlight on your beautiful kitchen.

    Rendering Copyright Frank Betz & Associates
    Floorplan Copyright Frank Betz & Associates

    Trowbridge

    Trowbridge is a beautifully balanced plan that blends traditional style with modern needs. The scullery pantry just off the main kitchen helps reduce countertop traffic and creates a natural place to organize meals, supplies, or even serve as a coffee or baking nook.

    Rendering Copyright Frank Betz & Associates
    Floorplan Copyright Frank Betz & Associates

    Eldermere House

    A luxurious European-inspired farmhouse, the Eldermere House offers 3825 square feet of refined living. This plan has a butlers pantry, easily converted to a scullery pantry, just beyond the main kitchen, providing a perfect space for prepping meals or tucking away countertop clutter. Its placement enhances flow from the kitchen to the dining and outdoor entertaining areas.

    Rendering Copyright ArchitecturalDesigns.com & Associates
    Floorplan Copyright ArchitecturalDesigns.com & Associates

    Make Your Kitchen Work Smarter—Not Harder

    When you build a custom home with Travars Built Homes, you can tailor every space—including your kitchen—to fit your lifestyle. A scullery kitchen is just one of the many features we can help you integrate to bring more ease, beauty, and function to your daily life.

    Ready to explore more possibilities? See these plans and more in our online catalog, and let’s start the conversation about building your dream home today.

    Explore Floor Plans with Scullery Pantries

    Get in Touch Today!

      Sources:

      Stunning New Floor Plans for Your Custom Build

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      Just Released:  Three New Luxury Floor Plans Now Available in Our Online Catalog

      At Travars Built Homes, we believe your home should reflect your lifestyle, values, and vision. That’s why we’re excited to introduce three new luxury floor plans to our online catalog—each thoughtfully designed with the flexibility and craftsmanship that define our custom builds. Whether you’re seeking expansive indoor-outdoor living, timeless farmhouse charm, or multi-generational comfort, these plans offer a glimpse into what’s possible when you build with us.

      Ruskin Place: Estate Living with Elegant Details

      At 4,328 square feet, Ruskin Place is a showcase of refined design and functionality. This estate-style home offers 4–5 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms, with both the primary suite and a guest room conveniently located on the first floor.

      Highlights:

      • Four-car parking, including a detached carriage garage and Porte Cochere
      • Two-story family room with a statement fireplace
      • Scullery/prep pantry and a dedicated “pool bath” for seamless indoor-outdoor entertaining
      • Private baths for every bedroom
      • Bonus room with separate staircase—ideal for a home studio, office, or media space

      Ruskin Place is designed for homeowners who value both grandeur and practicality, with spaces that flow effortlessly from one to the next.

      new luxury floor plans for nc custom homes
      Rendering copyright Frank Betz and Associates

      Windsor Park: A Modern Farmhouse with Classic Appeal

      Windsor Park brings the warmth of farmhouse living into a modern, open-concept layout. This plan is ideal for those who appreciate timeless design elements paired with contemporary comforts.

      Highlights:

      • Spacious kitchen with a large island, perfect for gatherings
      • First-floor primary suite offering privacy and convenience
      • Optional flex spaces to suit your lifestyle needs
      • Inviting front porch and rear outdoor living areas

      Windsor Park captures the essence of farmhouse charm while providing the flexibility and modern amenities today’s homeowners desire.

      new luxury floor plans for nc custom homes
      Rendering copyright Frank Betz and Associates

      Twin Gables Farmhouse: Rustic Charm Meets Modern Comfort

      Twin Gables Farmhouse is a 3,159-square-foot home that beautifully blends rustic elements with modern design. Featuring 4 bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms, this plan is perfect for families seeking both style and functionality.

      Highlights:

      • First-floor master suite with luxurious bathroom and walk-in closet
      • Open-concept kitchen with two-tone cabinetry and a farmhouse sink
      • Abundant natural light through large windows and transoms
      • Bonus room and built-in bookcases for added versatility
      • Classic white and black exterior finishes with brick fireplace surround

      Twin Gables Farmhouse offers a harmonious blend of traditional aesthetics and modern living spaces, making it a standout choice for those who appreciate both form and function.

      new luxury floor plans for nc custom homes
      Rendering copyright ArchitecturalDesigns.com & Associates

      Ready to Build Your Dream Home?

      Each of these new plans is fully customizable to fit your unique needs and preferences. At Travars Built Homes, we work closely with you to tailor every detail, ensuring your home is a true reflection of your vision.

      Explore these plans and more in our online catalog, and let’s start the conversation about building your dream home today.

      Explore Our Floor Plans

      Get in Touch Today!

        Accent Colors: 5 Eye-Catching Design Features for Your Custom Home

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        In custom home design, a strategically chosen accent color can transform a room, creating focal points that elevate the overall aesthetic. At Travars Built Homes, we work with clients to incorporate accent colors that highlight architectural features and add personality to each space. Whether you’re building on your lot or choosing from one of our custom plans, these design elements add unique touches that make every home feel tailored to your vision. Here are five examples of how accent colors are used to make specific design elements pop:

        High Wainscoting and Drop Zone – Avonmore

        The Avonmore plan features accent wainscoting in the master bedroom, drawing attention to a key wall while adding depth and texture. The drop zone also uses a similar treatment, creating a cohesive look that welcomes you home.

        Explore the Avonmore tour

        Dark Shiplap Fireplace – Amherst

        In the Amherst plan, a dramatic dark shiplap accent spans from floor to vaulted ceiling at the fireplace bump out, anchoring the living area with a bold, contemporary feel.

        See the Amherst tour

        Coffered Ceiling – Teesdale

        The Teesdale plan features a dark coffer ceiling in the two-story foyer, adding striking contrast against lighter walls and drawing the eye upward to showcase the architectural detailing.

        View the Teesdale tour

        Barn Door in Accent Color – Noni Cottage

        In the Noni Cottage, a barn door painted in an accent color serves as a functional design statement, seamlessly blending rustic charm with modern style.

        Take a look at the Noni Cottage tour

        Bold Red Front Door – Gregory

        Nothing says “welcome home” like a bold red front door. The Gregory plan uses this timeless accent to make a lasting first impression, creating a classic focal point that stands out against a neutral exterior.

        Visit the Gregory tour

        Why Accent Colors Matter in Custom Home Design

        Choosing the right accent color can enhance architectural features, define spaces, and convey a specific mood or style. Whether it’s a bold front door, a shiplap wall, or an accent ceiling, these design elements make a custom home feel unique and thoughtfully curated. And when you’re building on your lot with Travars Built Homes, every detail can be tailored to your preferences — from accent walls to exterior finishes.

        Ready to discuss how accent colors can elevate your custom home design? Explore our Build On Your Lot page for more options.

        Explore more inspiration in our Photo Tours

        Ready to start planning your custom home? Let’s talk.

          Studio Spaces and Family Suites: Versatile Living | On Your Lot Builder

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          When you’re building a custom home on your lot in Chatham, Lee, Alamance, or surrounding counties, having a dedicated space that adapts to your lifestyle can make all the difference. At Travars Built Homes, we build custom floor plans with Studio Spaces and Family Suites that provide privacy, flexibility, and functionality — perfect for the way you live, work, and relax.

          Why Include a Studio Space or Family Suite?

          • Privacy and Separation: A Studio Space or Family Suite located away from main living areas can be the ideal setting for a home office, guest quarters, or creative workspace.
          • Multi-Use Flexibility: Whether it’s a playroom for the kids, a home gym, or a personal retreat, these rooms can evolve as your needs change.
          • Resale Value: Adding a well-designed Family Suite or Studio Space increases your home’s appeal, giving future buyers versatile options for guests, in-laws, or rental income.

          Featured Floor Plans with Studio Spaces and Family Suites

          Explore these custom home plans that prioritize separation and multi-purpose living:

          • Harper’s Ferry: This modern farmhouse design includes a spacious Studio Space on the upper level, ideal for a nanny suite, craft room, or home theater.
          • Settlers Ridge: With its separate rear stairway entry, the upper-level Family Suite provides an expansive, private area for guests, teens, or in-laws — complete with a covered porch for added living space.
          • Seneca Falls: A breezeway connects the detached garage to the main home, leading to a thoughtfully designed Studio Space. Use it as a home office, art studio, or private guest retreat.

          Harper’s Ferry

          Settlers Ridge

          Seneca Falls

          Designing for Your Lot in NC

          Travars Built Homes specializes in crafting custom floor plans that maximize space, comfort, and functionality. Whether you’re building in Pittsboro, Sanford, Siler City, or beyond, we’ll help you design a home with Studio Spaces and Family Suites tailored to your lifestyle. Contact us to start creating a home that works for you — and every way you want to live.

          Explore more inspiration in our Photo Tours

          Ready to start planning your custom home? Let’s talk.

            *Renderings copyright Frank Betz

            Popular Brick Selections for Custom Homes | Travars Built Homes

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            At Travars Built Homes, every detail matters. That’s why we guide our homeowners through thoughtful selections — like brick — that shape the timeless beauty and character of their new home.
            Brick is more than just a material choice. It’s a statement of style, durability, and classic charm, crafted to complement the design vision you’re building with us.

            Here’s a look at some of the most popular brick selections our homeowners have chosen, featured in recent Travars Built Homes builds across central North Carolina:

            1. Oyster Bay – Subtle, Coastal Elegance

            For those drawn to softer neutrals, Oyster Bay brick is a standout choice. In our Teesdale home, it provides a breezy, coastal-inspired look with gentle variations of white and gray.

            This muted, sandy palette pairs easily with both warm and cool color schemes, offering flexibility for shutters, trim, and accents — perfect for homeowners who appreciate understated sophistication.

            2. Washed White – Bright and Timeless

            The East Haven home brings a fresh take on classic white brick. The soft, washed finish offers a welcoming brightness, pairing beautifully with the home’s traditional lines and modern touches.

            Washed White brick creates a relaxed, timeless feel that looks equally stunning in farmhouse, cottage, and transitional home styles — a versatile favorite among custom homebuyers.

            Full Brick Custom Home in NC

            3. Santa Fe – Warm and Richly Layered

            The Amherst home showcases the earthy richness of Santa Fe brick. With its warm reds,  soft paprika, sand and dark gray accents, Santa Fe creates a welcoming, grounded presence.

            This can be ideal for homeowners who want to highlight the connection between their home and its natural surroundings.  This brick style adds depth, character, and a touch of traditional Southern charm.

            4. Evelyn Bay – Soft Sophistication

            At the Holly Fern home, Evelyn Bay brick blends creamy whites and gentle grays into a soft, sophisticated exterior. It offers a slightly more structured and polished finish compared to some rustic styles, while still maintaining a handcrafted, approachable feel.

            This choice has become increasingly popular for homeowners seeking a fresh, transitional look that stands the test of time.

            Crafting a Home That’s Uniquely Yours

            When you build with Travars Built Homes, every selection — from your brick to your layout — is guided by personal conversations and expert advice.

            Whether you’re drawn to bright and airy whites, natural earth tones, or coastal-inspired blends, we’ll walk you through the options that fit your vision and bring lasting beauty to your home.

            Explore more inspiration in our Photo Tours

            Ready to start planning your custom home? Let’s talk.

              What Can Impact Where You Can Place Your Home on Land in Alamance County, NC?

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              Alamance County is one of the beautiful areas where Travars Built Homes builds custom homes on your land—and one of a dozen counties across central North Carolina where we help families bring their vision to life. If you’re considering building in Alamance, it’s important to understand that more than just personal preference determines where you can place your home on your lot.

              Setbacks, septic systems, wells, easements, and environmental features all play a role in shaping your homesite plan. Here’s what to know—and how we help you navigate the process.

              1. Setbacks: 

              Setbacks are the minimum required distances between your home and the edges of your lot. These requirements help maintain safety, privacy, and uniformity across neighborhoods.

              In most parts of Alamance County, typical minimum setbacks are:

              • 35–50 feet from the front property line
              • 15–25 feet from the sides
              • 25–50 feet from the rear

              The specific setback distances depend on your zoning designation and whether your property is located within a municipality, an ETJ (Extra-Territorial Jurisdiction), or a rural area.

              Why it matters: Setbacks define your home’s “buildable area.” 

              2. Septic System: 

              If your property doesn’t connect to a municipal sewer system, you’ll need to install a septic system. Alamance County’s Environmental Health Department will determine the best location based on:

              • A professional soil evaluation
              • The number of bedrooms in your home
              • Required separation from wells, property lines, and structures
              • Reserved space for a repair area

              Why it matters: You must keep the designated area for a septic system clear—not just during construction, but long term—which means you can’t place patios, sheds, pools, or heavy driveways over it.

              3. Wells: 

              If your home requires a private well, it must also meet specific placement requirements. In Alamance County, your well must be:

              • At least 100 feet away from septic fields
              • Accessible for future maintenance

              Why it matters: The well location often needs to be planned in tandem with the septic layout—and both must be situated with enough distance from your home and each other to comply with regulations.

              4. Easements: 

              Easements are areas on your property that someone else has a legal right to use. These are most commonly used for:

              • Driveways or access roads to neighboring properties
              • Underground utility lines
              • Drainage or stormwater systems

              Why it matters: You typically cannot build on or obstruct an easement. 

              5. Natural Features and Buffers

              Alamance County features rolling countryside, creeks, and wooded areas—but these features can also bring building restrictions.

              Depending on your land, you may encounter:

              • Stream buffers, which restrict development near natural waterways
              • Floodplain zones, where development is limited or prohibited

              Why it matters: While these features add beauty to your land, they may limit where you can place your home—or require you to take additional steps during site planning and permitting.

              Building in Alamance County? Travars Built Can Help.

              Building on your own land comes with a lot of questions—and we’re here to help answer them. Once we understand what kind of home you’d like to build, Travars Built Homes offers an in-depth, on-site consultation to evaluate how your home can be placed for optimal layout, orientation, and use of your land’s natural features. We’ll walk your homesite with you and provide expert insight into everything from potential driveway locations to how slope can impact foundation heights.

              Contact us today to schedule your homesite consultation.

              Travars Built Homes has a renowned reputation across central North Carolina for exceptional quality, integrity, and service. We build on your land extending into 12 counties, including Chatham, Wake, Orange, Lee, Alamance, and surrounding areas.

              Disclaimer: Requirements for well, septic, setbacks, easements, and environmental features can vary depending on your specific property and local regulations. Travars Built Homes provides guidance throughout this process, but cannot guarantee outcomes related to soil evaluations, permits, or regulatory approvals.

              Get in touch today!

                What Homebuyers Really Want: Trends in Home Size for 2024

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                As custom home builders serving Pittsboro and the surrounding areas of Chatham County, Travars Built Homes pays close attention to what today’s homebuyers value most. One of the key questions we help our clients answer is: How much space do you really want in your new home?

                The “What Home Buyers Really Want 2024 Edition” study from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) reveals some insightful shifts in buyer preferences when it comes to home size.

                Here’s a closer look at what homebuyers say they currently have—and what they actually want:

                What These Trends Tell Us

                The data reflects a variety of buyer preferences—while many homeowners do want more space than they currently have, larger homes are not the goal for everyone.

                Larger homes (3,000+ sq ft) still appeal to some, especially those looking for multigenerational layouts or high-end features. However, just 14% of buyers said they want a home over 3,000 sq ft—and only 6% want more than 4,000 sq ft—even in the context of “would like to have.”

                Smaller homes (<1,600 sq ft) are desirable for 26% of buyers, potentially for its affordability and simplicity.

                Mid-size homes (1,600 – 2,499 sq ft) represent the sweet spot for the majority of buyers. Nearly 70% of homebuyers want homes under 2,500 sq ft, indicating that spaciousness doesn’t have to mean oversized.

                Understanding the Shift in Preferences

                According to the NAHB:

                “In the last 20 years, there has been a clear shift downward in the amount of space buyers want. NAHB studies from 2003 to 2012 reveal that the typical buyer during this period wanted a home with at least 2,200 sq ft of finished area. Starting in 2015, however, buyers’ preferences shifted toward smaller homes. That year, and then again in 2018, 2020, and 2023, the typical buyer decided a home with around 2,000 to 2,075 sq ft was enough.”

                This downward trend may reflect the rising cost of construction, a desire to save on heating and cooling costs, and changing lifestyle priorities such as simplified living or lower maintenance and upkeep responsibilities.

                Travars Built offers homes in each of these size ranges. Explore the full range of plans here.

                What This Means for Homebuilding in Pittsboro and Chatham County

                At Travars Built Homes, our portfolio includes a wide range of home sizes, with a strong emphasis on flexible layouts, custom options, and efficient design strategies. This attention to layout becomes especially meaningful because buyers can customize floorplans to meet their specific needs, rather than being reliant on a small set of predesigned plans.

                We also see rising interest in:

                Explore Your Options

                Whether you’re looking to right-size your home or build with room to grow, Travars Built Homes can help you create a space that fits your lifestyle, needs, and budget.

                Take a look at our available floor plans and let us know how we can bring your vision to life.

                Have any questions for us?

                Get in touch today!

                  Built-In Bookcases: Custom Home Features with Character in Pittsboro and Chatham County, NC

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                  If you’re building a custom home in Pittsboro or Chatham County, NC, built-in bookcases are a timeless feature that adds charm, storage, and functionality to your living space. Whether you’re dreaming of a cozy reading nook, a refined home office, or a living room focal point, Travars Built Homes can incorporate bookcases tailored to your style and space.

                  We specialize in custom home design that brings your vision to life—including standout built-in bookcases that combine craftsmanship with creativity. Here are a few unique examples from homes we’ve built across central North Carolina:

                  Danbury Springs – Library Ladder, Custom Dividers, and Base Cabinets

                  This custom home in Chatham County features one of our most iconic bookcase installations. The built-in wall includes:

                  • A rolling library ladder for both function and flair
                  • Staggered-width dividers for varied shelf styling
                  • Cabinetry below the shelving to store games, electronics, or office supplies

                  This is the perfect spot for a library, office, or nook, being both elegantly designed and highly functional.

                  Explore Danbury Springs

                  Teesdale – Extra-Height Bookcases and Ladder Access

                  Located near Pittsboro, NC, the Teesdale plan takes bookcase design to new heights—literally. Its full-height bookcases rise to the ceiling, complete with a sliding ladder that gives this room the feel of an upscale bookshop or classic study.

                  This home demonstrates how custom bookcases can frame a room and define its purpose with stunning architectural detail.

                  Explore Teesdale

                  Longview – Classic Built-Ins Flanking a Fireplace

                  Nothing beats the traditional warmth of built-in bookcases on both sides of a fireplace. In the Longview plan, custom shelving creates balance, storage, and beauty in the main living area. The bookcases offer the perfect place to showcase books, family heirlooms, or seasonal décor—all while keeping the focus on the cozy hearth.

                  If you’re looking for a classic layout in your Chatham County new home, this is a favorite.

                  Explore Longview

                  Southern Farmhouse – Hidden Bookcase Behind Barn Doors

                  This one’s for the modern farmhouse lovers: A bookcase hidden behind barn doors gives the Southern Farmhouse plan a touch of surprise and flexibility. Whether closed for a sleek wall treatment or opened to reveal books and keepsakes, it’s a brilliant mix of style and practicality.

                  Perfect for homes that blend contemporary farmhouse aesthetics with clever design features.

                  Explore Southern Farmhouse

                  Why Built-In Bookcases Are a Smart Choice for Your Custom Home

                  Homebuyers across Chatham County, especially in communities like Pittsboro, Siler City, and Moncure, are embracing built-ins as a way to:

                  • Maximize space with integrated storage
                  • Create architectural interest in key rooms
                  • Personalize your home with functional features that match your lifestyle

                  Whether you’re a collector of books, a display enthusiast, or just love a polished, finished look, custom bookcases are one of the most-loved upgrades among Travars Built Homes clients.

                  Ready to Build Your Custom Home in Chatham County?

                  Travars Built Homes builds on your lot in Pittsboro, Chatham County, and throughout 12 counties in central North Carolina. Our team works with you every step of the way—from designing custom layouts to selecting finishes like cabinetry, shelving, and storage that reflect your lifestyle.

                  Contact us today to get started on your dream home—or browse our many floor plans. 

                  Get in touch today!

                    Understanding Septic and Well Requirements When Building on Your Own Land in Chatham County, NC

                    Posted by tbhadmin on

                    Building a custom home on your own land in Chatham County, North Carolina offers incredible freedom and flexibility—but it also comes with important site development steps, especially if your land does not have access to public water or sewer. This means you’ll need to plan for a private septic system and well, which require proper permitting through the county.

                    At Travars Built Homes, we help guide you through this process—unlike some home builders who leave it up to the homeowner to figure it out alone.

                    Septic System Requirements in Chatham County

                    When public sewer isn’t available, an on-site septic system must be permitted and approved. In Chatham County, there are three primary permitting options:

                    1. Public Permitting Option

                    Through the Chatham County Environmental Health Division, this process involves submitting an application, fee, and site plan. A county inspector visits the site to determine soil and layout suitability. If the application is approved, an Improvement Permit (valid for five years) is issued. The applicant must obtain a Construction Authorization before beginning installation.

                    2. Private Permitting Option

                    You can also work with a licensed engineer or Authorized On-Site Wastewater Evaluator (AOWE) to design your system. This option can streamline timelines and provide design flexibility, while still meeting state regulations.

                    3. Hybrid Permitting Option

                    This approach combines public oversight with a private soil consultant and can offer a great fit for certain site conditions.

                    Southern Farmhouse | Siler City New Home

                    Well Installation Requirements in Chatham County

                    If there’s no public water access, a private well must be drilled and permitted. Chatham County requires:

                    • A completed application and fee submitted to Environmental Health
                    • Site evaluation to ensure setbacks from buildings, septic systems, and potential contaminants
                    • Post-installation testing to ensure safe, potable water

                    Typical setback requirements include:

                    • 100 feet from potential contamination sources
                    • 50 feet from ponds, lakes, and surface water
                    • 100 feet from potential contamination sources
                    • 50 feet from septic systems
                    • 25 feet from structures with termite treatment

                    We Work Across 12 Central North Carolina Counties

                    While these requirements apply to Chatham County, Travars Built Homes builds on your lot across a 12-county area in central North Carolina. From Orange to Johnston, Alamance to Lee—and everywhere in between—we’re familiar with the permitting processes, health department regulations, and land development practices across the region.

                    Whether your property is in Chatham or beyond, we bring deep experience and local insight to ensure your custom home journey is smooth and informed.

                    Travars Built Homes Supports You Through the Entire Process

                    From day one, we work alongside you to coordinate permitting, schedule evaluations, and consult with licensed soil scientists and engineers. Our goal is to remove guesswork and make sure your land is fully prepped and permitted for construction—so your home can move forward with confidence.

                    We don’t leave you on your own. We help with it all.

                    ⚠️ Important Disclaimer

                    Local health department requirements for septic and well systems can change based on county and state updates. This article is for informational purposes only. Always consult with your builder and local authorities for the most current information for your specific property and location.

                    Have any questions about building your custom home on your own lot? Feel free to contact us!

                    Get in touch today!