About Buying Property
in the Turks & Caicos Islands

Building Considerations for Turks and Caicos Land

Many investors chose to build their Island Dream Home. While building is a wonderful adventure, those contemplating construction should do so carefully and seek advice from professionals. The following general information is to be used as a starting point only.

Construction Costs

Construction costs, from the slab up, range from $100 to over $170 per square foot depending on construction method and quality of finish. Site preparation costs are extra, as are septic systems and cisterns.

Planning Department

The Planning & Development Authority reviews submissions to ensure that they conform to our building Code, and issue Building Permits. Three sets of drawings, along with a completed Planning & Development application form must be submitted. Residential plans can be dealt with at the administrative level. Commercial application will go to the Planning Board. A registered Architect or Engineer must prepare plans and specifications.

Construction Materials

Residences are built of masonry, concrete block or poured concrete. Because of termites, wood is only used above grade. In all cases, pressure treated lumber or wood containing tannic acid (cypress, cedar, redwood) must be used.

Construction Design

With our year round temperate climate, the interiors of many residence are small compared to stateside, but outdoor living areas, docks, patios and screened porches are substantial. Windows should be screened, as they will be open most of the time. The prevailing breeze comes form the northeast during the summer months, moving east to northeast in the winter. Building placement is determined accordingly. Air conditioners are not essential in a well planned home but the use of ceiling fans is extensive.

Electricity

Power is 110-220 60 cycle AC as in North America. Electricity cost is 35-cents/kilowatt hour. Solar hot water heating is popular.

Water Supply and Sewage

A catchment system (cistern) is required for all buildings. Each square foot of roof area represents a capacity of 10 gallons. Cisterns are built of reinforced concrete. If required, desalinated water is delivered at about 6 cent per gallon. A direct water line is available in many areas. Piped water is available at 3.5 cents per gallon. Gray water systems, that capture drainage from showers, sinks, and washers are widely used for irrigation. Sewage disposal is by septic tank or mechanical treatment system that can treat sewage for irrigation purposes.