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 Bath?
In Bath, a new build home typically costs £2,050–£3,250 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 £307,500–£487,500. Prices in the South West sit near the national average for this kind of work, and the range for Bath reflects that. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (105 m²) | £215,000–£341,000 |
| Typical project (150 m²) | £307,500–£487,500 |
| Larger project (210 m²) | £430,500–£682,500 |
| Rate per m² | £2,050–£3,250 |
The biggest cost drivers are:
- Services connections
- External works and landscaping
- 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 Bath?
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.
We check this for your address before design work starts, so there are no surprises later.
What we handle
What we take care of:
- Internal fit-out and finishes
- Site appraisal and feasibility
- Mechanical and electrical installation
- Design and planning application
- Structural and services design
- Superstructure, roof and windows
How long does it take?
Build time is typically 9 to 14 months on site for a typical house. Before that, surveys, drawings and approvals usually take 4 to 9 months, longer if the council asks for changes.
Building in Bath
The South West mixes stone and render cottages with post-war and newer estates, and local materials matter more here when matching an extension.
Projects in Bath (BA1) are surveyed in person before we quote, so the price reflects your actual property.
How it works
- 01
Visit and measured survey
A free visit to understand the project, check access and take measurements.
- 02
Design and pricing
Design options, then a fixed quote based on the chosen drawings and specification.
- 03
Approvals
Planning or permitted development confirmation, building regulations and any party wall matters.
- 04
Construction and completion
We build, put right any snags and hand over the building control certificate.
Questions about new build homes in Bath
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 long does a new build home take in Bath?
Typically 9 to 14 months on site for a typical house. Design and approvals beforehand usually take 4 to 9 months.
Is Community Infrastructure Levy payable?
In areas with CIL, new homes may be liable. Self-builders can apply for an exemption before work starts.
How much does a new build home cost in Bath?
In Bath, a new build home typically costs £2,050–£3,250 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 £307,500–£487,500. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
