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 Braintree?
In Braintree, a new build home typically costs £2,100–£3,400 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 £315,000–£510,000. Prices across the East of England are typically 6% above the UK average for this kind of work, which is reflected in the range for Braintree. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (105 m²) | £220,500–£357,000 |
| Typical project (150 m²) | £315,000–£510,000 |
| Larger project (210 m²) | £441,000–£714,000 |
| Rate per m² | £2,100–£3,400 |
What moves the price most:
- External works and landscaping
- Ground conditions and foundations
- Services connections
- Specification and energy systems
For a figure based on your own measurements, try the guide price tool, then book a free home visit for a fixed quote.
Do you need planning permission for a new build home in Braintree?
Approvals for a new build home in Braintree follow the rules for 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.
At the survey we check your house’s planning history and any restrictions, and tell you which route applies.
What we handle
Handled as part of most new build homes:
- Groundworks, foundations and drainage
- Superstructure, roof and windows
- Building control completion and warranty liaison
- Internal fit-out and finishes
- Mechanical and electrical installation
- Structural and services design
How long does it take?
Expect 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 Braintree
Across the East of England, 1930s and post-war semis, newer estates and rural cottages all feature, each with different extension and loft options.
From CM7 outwards, we take on projects throughout Braintree and the surrounding parts of Essex.
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
Permissions sorted
Applications, building control and neighbour arrangements, all before the start date.
- 04
Construction and completion
We build, put right any snags and hand over the building control certificate.
Questions about new build homes in Braintree
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.
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 Braintree?
In Braintree, a new build home typically costs £2,100–£3,400 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 £315,000–£510,000. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
How long does a new build home take in Braintree?
Typically 9 to 14 months on site for a typical house. Design and approvals beforehand usually take 4 to 9 months.
Do I need planning permission?
Yes. A new dwelling always needs full planning permission (or permission in principle followed by technical details consent in England).