Build it your way.
Adapt as you grow.
Off-grid living isn’t one-size-fits-all. This section helps you take real action—with step-by-step projects, printable guides, and flexible options you can tailor to your land, your skills, and your goals.
Whether you're building from scratch or upgrading an existing setup, you'll find tools here to help you make smart decisions, avoid costly mistakes, and adapt as your needs change.
Checklist:
Go Grid-Free for 48 Hours
A printable checklist to help you simulate an off-grid weekend using your existing supplies. Test your systems, log gaps, and identify what to fix before a real emergency hits.
Download the Weekend Test Checklist (PDF)
3 DIY Projects
to Build Confidence
Get started with three beginner-friendly wins: a basic backup power setup, a first rain barrel collection system, and a small-space container garden. These mini projects help you build momentum without needing land or a big budget.
Download the Quick-Start Project Guide (PDF)
Checklist:
Reduce Grid Dependence
A system-by-system checklist to help you track your progress across energy, water, food, sanitation, and core skills. This tool evolves with you—print it, update it, and revisit it often.
Download the Reduce Grid Dependence Checklist (PDF)
Checklist: Plan a Safe & Legal Water System
Before you build anything, use this checklist to get clear on what’s legal, what’s possible, and what your land and climate demand. You’ll cover tank size, roof type, greywater options, and key questions to ask your local zoning office—so you can design with confidence, not guesswork.
Download the Rainwater System Planning Checklist (PDF)
Step-by-Step Project: Build a Rainwater System
Learn how to turn your shed or roof into a catchment system. This printable guide walks you through the full process—from checking your roof material to installing gutters, diverters, overflow protection, and storage tanks. Start with a barrel or scale up to a multi-container setup that’s pressurized and winter-ready.
Download the Rainwater DIY Project (PDF)
Step-by-Step Project: Greywater System install
This guide helps you reuse lightly used water from your shower, sink, or laundry to nourish garden beds or trees. Whether you’re on sloped land or need a pump for flat zones, you’ll get the parts, filters, and layout tips to build a safe, efficient system that reduces waste and supports your growing space.
Download the Greywater Reuse Project (PDF)
checklist:
Emergency Water Plan
If your tap shut off today, would you know where to get safe water? This planning tool helps you map out immediate backup sources (urban or wild), choose fast purification methods, and calculate how much water your household really needs to survive 72 hours, two weeks, or longer.
Download the Emergency Water Plan Checklist (PDF)
FPO & checklist:
Water System Maintenance & Repair Guide
This printable guide includes a visual troubleshooting chart and step-by-step maintenance checklist for rainwater, well, and greywater systems. Use it to prevent clogs, leaks, and contamination—and to fix issues fast when they arise.
Download the Water System Troubleshooting & Maintenance Guide (PDF)
Checklist:
Layered Water Purification
Purifying water off-grid takes more than one filter. This project shows you how to build a multi-stage system that tackles sediment, chemicals, and pathogens—using materials like mesh, charcoal, UV, or solar. Ideal for rainwater, well water, or any off-grid source that needs to be made safe for drinking and hygiene.
Download the Water Purification System Guide (PDF)
Not sure what to tackle first?
Use the Planning Worksheet to reflect on your priorities, comfort level, and what systems make sense to build now. It’s printable, fillable, and designed to help you take action with clarity—not guesswork.