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 Carrickfergus?
In Carrickfergus, a new build home typically costs £1,700–£2,750 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 £255,000–£412,500. Prices across Northern Ireland are typically 14% below the UK average for this kind of work, which is reflected in the range for Carrickfergus. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (105 m²) | £178,500–£289,000 |
| Typical project (150 m²) | £255,000–£412,500 |
| Larger project (210 m²) | £357,000–£577,500 |
| Rate per m² | £1,700–£2,750 |
Your quote will depend mainly on:
- Site access and demolition
- Size and complexity of the house
- Services connections
- External works and landscaping
Use the guide price tool to see how size and specification change the figure, then ask for a written, itemised quote.
Do you need planning permission for a new build home in Carrickfergus?
Whether you need planning permission depends on your house and its location in Northern Ireland. In Northern Ireland a new home needs planning permission from the council and building control approval.
In Northern Ireland building control approval comes from the council, usually through a full plans application or a building notice, with inspections during the work and a completion certificate at the end.
Our first visit includes a check of your planning history, so you know the route before paying for drawings.
What we handle
What we take care of:
- Structural and services design
- Internal fit-out and finishes
- Building control completion and warranty liaison
- Groundworks, foundations and drainage
- Superstructure, roof and windows
- Site appraisal and feasibility
How long does it take?
Build time is typically 9 to 14 months on site for a typical house. Allow time beforehand for drawings and approvals, usually 4 to 9 months.
Building in Carrickfergus
Northern Ireland has many detached and semi-detached homes on generous plots, which suits single-storey rear extensions and garage conversions.
Projects in Carrickfergus (BT38) 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 in place
We handle planning, building control and neighbour notices before work starts.
- 04
Build and sign-off
We run the build to a written programme and hand over the completion certificate.
Questions about new build homes in Carrickfergus
How much does a new build home cost in Carrickfergus?
In Carrickfergus, a new build home typically costs £1,700–£2,750 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 £255,000–£412,500. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Can you build to my architect’s design?
Yes. We price and build from your drawings, or we can manage the design for you.
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.
How long does a new build home take in Carrickfergus?
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 for a new build home in Carrickfergus?
In Northern Ireland a new home needs planning permission from the council and building control approval.
