What is a new build home?

A new build home is a house built from the ground up on a cleared plot, a garden plot or a replacement-dwelling site. We work with plot owners and self-builders to design, gain approvals and build the house, either to a fixed design or from initial ideas.
How much does a new build home cost in Barnes?
In Barnes, a new build home typically costs £2,600–£4,150 per m² of floor area (build cost), including VAT at 0% (zero-rated for qualifying new dwellings). For a typical 150 m² project that is roughly £390,000–£622,500. That range is adjusted for London, where domestic building work typically costs around 30% above the national average. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (105 m²) | £273,000–£436,000 |
| Typical project (150 m²) | £390,000–£622,500 |
| Larger project (210 m²) | £546,000–£871,500 |
| Rate per m² | £2,600–£4,150 |
The biggest cost drivers are:
- Specification and energy systems
- Ground conditions and foundations
- Size and complexity of the house
- Site access and demolition
Your exact price depends on the survey and drawings. The guide price tool gives a quick range in the meantime.
Do you need planning permission for a new build home in Barnes?
Whether you need planning permission depends on your house and its location in England. In England a new home needs full planning permission (or permission in principle followed by technical details consent). Councils assess design, access, neighbours and drainage, and the Community Infrastructure Levy may apply, though self-builders can claim an exemption before starting.
Building regulations approval comes from the council’s building control service or a registered building control approver. The work is inspected at key stages, such as foundations, drainage and insulation, and a completion certificate is issued at the end.
If the answer is not clear-cut, we can apply for formal confirmation before you commit to the build.
What we handle
From survey to sign-off, the job normally involves:
- Building control completion and warranty liaison
- Mechanical and electrical installation
- Superstructure, roof and windows
- Design and planning application
- Site appraisal and feasibility
- Internal fit-out and finishes
How long does it take?
Expect 9 to 14 months on site for a typical house. Allow time beforehand for drawings and approvals, usually 4 to 9 months.
Building in Barnes
Many London boroughs have conservation areas and detailed design guides, so early design advice saves time at the planning stage.
We work across Barnes and neighbouring areas such as Chiswick, Putney and Hammersmith. Postcodes we cover in Barnes include SW13.
How it works
- 01
Survey and brief
We visit, discuss your ideas and budget, and survey the property or site at no cost.
- 02
Design and pricing
Design options, then a fixed quote based on the chosen drawings and specification.
- 03
Approvals in place
We handle planning, building control and neighbour notices before work starts.
- 04
Build and handover
Work follows the agreed programme, with inspections along the way and a completion certificate at the end.
Questions about new build homes in Barnes
Is Community Infrastructure Levy payable?
In areas with CIL, new homes may be liable. Self-builders can apply for an exemption before work starts.
Is VAT charged on building a new house?
Construction services for a new dwelling are normally zero-rated when supplied by a VAT-registered builder. Self-builders who buy materials directly can reclaim VAT through HMRC’s DIY housebuilders scheme.
Can you build to my architect’s design?
Yes. We price and build from your drawings, or we can manage the design for you.
How much does a new build home cost in Barnes?
In Barnes, a new build home typically costs £2,600–£4,150 per m² of floor area (build cost), including VAT at 0% (zero-rated for qualifying new dwellings). A typical 150 m² project comes to roughly £390,000–£622,500. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Who approves a new build home in Barnes?
Planning matters in Barnes go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. We prepare and submit the applications for you.
