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How much will your new build cost? Receive stage-by-stage breakdowns and get free quotes from a tailored list of new build specialists in your area.
How Much Does a New Build Cost?
Please Note
The figures presented are for guidance only and are rough estimates. Since every new build is unique, its final cost is subject to major variables, including your location, ground conditions, design complexity, and specification level.
| Specification Level | Typical Cost per m² (excl. VAT) | Example Size | Estimated Build Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic / Standard | £1,800 – £2,200 | 150 m² | £270,000 – £330,000 |
| Mid-Range | £2,200 – £2,800 | 200 m² | £440,000 – £560,000 |
| High-End / Bespoke | £3,000 – £4,000+ | 250 m² | £750,000 – £1,000,000+ |
Additional Costs to Remember
| Item | Allow for ~ |
|---|---|
| VAT | 0% (new builds usually exempt) |
| Professional Fees | +10–15% |
| Site Prep & Utilities | £10,000–£30,000 |
| Contingency | +10–15% |
To receive a clear, stage-by-stage cost breakdown tailored to your new build, simply today and get up to 5 free quotes from local specialists.
The New Build Journey — Step-by-Step
| Stage | What Happens | Who’s Involved | Typical Time |
|---|---|---|---|
1Design & Planning | Site survey, concept, and planning approval. | 8–12 weeks | |
2Technical Design | Structural, energy, and Building Regulation drawings. | 4–6 weeks | |
3Groundworks | Site clearance, foundations, drainage. | 4–6 weeks | |
4Superstructure | Frame, walls, roof. | 8–12 weeks | |
5MEP & Finishes | Plumbing, electrics, plastering, kitchens. | 8–14 weeks | |
6Testing & Handover | Inspections, certificates, completion. | BuilderClient | 2 weeks |
Design & Planning
What Happens
Site survey, concept, and planning approval.
Who’s Involved
Typical Time
8–12 weeks
Technical Design
Groundworks
Superstructure
MEP & Finishes
Testing & Handover
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New Build Project FAQs
Get Answers to All Your New Build Project Questions
Please Note: The figures & stages presented are for guidance only and are rough estimates. Since every new build is unique, its final cost is subject to major variables, including your location, ground conditions, design complexity, and specification level.
To get a clear new build cost breakdown of each stage please and get up to 5 free quotes in your area.
What Are Architect Fees for a New Build?+
Typical Fees
Architect fees for a new build home usually range between £8,000 – £25,000+, or around 7–12% of total construction cost, depending on design complexity and services provided.
Client tip: Ask your architect about staged services — concept design first, then full planning and technical support later.
What’s Included
- Site appraisal and feasibility study
- Concept and detailed design drawings
- Planning application and coordination with consultants
- Building Regulation, structural, and tender documentation
- On-site supervision and contract administration (if required)
What Does a New Build Architect Do?+
Main Responsibilities
A new build architect helps you create a home that’s tailored to your site, lifestyle, and budget by:
- Developing design concepts that meet planning and site constraints
- Coordinating with engineers, surveyors, and energy consultants
- Managing planning and Building Regulation submissions
- Preparing detailed construction drawings for tender
- Supporting the build phase with site visits and quality checks
Client tip: Early collaboration between architect and builder ensures smoother cost control and fewer redesigns later.
Learn about new build design support →What Are New Build Builder Costs?+
Typical Costs per m²
| Build Type | Typical Cost per m² (excl. VAT) | Example Size | Estimated Build Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Specification | £2,000 – £2,800 | 150 m² | £300,000 – £420,000 |
| Mid-Range Specification | £2,800 – £3,800 | 180 m² | £504,000 – £684,000 |
| High-End / Bespoke Build | £3,800 – £5,000+ | 200 m² | £760,000 – £1,000,000+ |
Build Type
Standard Specification
Typical cost per m² (excl. VAT)
£2,000 – £2,800
Example size
150 m²
Estimated build cost
£300,000 – £420,000
Build Type
Mid-Range Specification
Typical cost per m² (excl. VAT)
£2,800 – £3,800
Example size
180 m²
Estimated build cost
£504,000 – £684,000
Build Type
High-End / Bespoke Build
Typical cost per m² (excl. VAT)
£3,800 – £5,000+
Example size
200 m²
Estimated build cost
£760,000 – £1,000,000+
What Affects the Price
- Ground conditions and foundations
- Design complexity and materials
- Sustainability targets (e.g., Passivhaus)
- Interior specification level
Client tip: Always confirm what’s included in the builder’s quote — finishes and landscaping are often excluded.
What Is the Builder’s Role on a New Build?+
Key Tasks
The builder is responsible for constructing your new home from the ground up, safely and in compliance with regulations:
- Site setup, foundations, and drainage
- Structural frame and roofing
- Insulation, windows, and weatherproofing
- Internal services (electrics, plumbing, heating)
- Finishes, decoration, and external works
Project Timeline
A typical new build project takes 8–14 months from start to completion, depending on size, design, and site conditions.
Client tip: Schedule regular progress meetings — it helps maintain quality and avoid budget overruns.
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