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 Chatham?
In Chatham, a new build home typically costs £2,250–£3,600 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 £337,500–£540,000. That range is adjusted for the South East, where domestic building work typically costs around 12% above the national average. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (105 m²) | £236,000–£378,000 |
| Typical project (150 m²) | £337,500–£540,000 |
| Larger project (210 m²) | £472,500–£756,000 |
| Rate per m² | £2,250–£3,600 |
The main things that change the cost:
- Size and complexity of the house
- Services connections
- External works and landscaping
- Ground conditions and foundations
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 Chatham?
The approval route for Chatham is set by planning law 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:
- Structural and services design
- Building control completion and warranty liaison
- Internal fit-out and finishes
- Mechanical and electrical installation
- Superstructure, roof and windows
- Groundworks, foundations and drainage
How long does it take?
The build itself usually takes 9 to 14 months on site for a typical house. Design and approvals come first and typically take 4 to 9 months, depending on the approval route.
Building in Chatham
Commuter towns across the South East have many 1930s and post-war semis that suit rear extensions and hip-to-gable loft conversions.
Projects in Chatham (ME4) 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
Drawings and written quote
We prepare the design and give you a written, itemised quote with inclusions and exclusions.
- 03
Approvals in place
We handle planning, building control and neighbour notices before work starts.
- 04
Construction and completion
We build, put right any snags and hand over the building control certificate.
Questions about new build homes in Chatham
How much does a new build home cost in Chatham?
In Chatham, a new build home typically costs £2,250–£3,600 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 £337,500–£540,000. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
How long does a new build take?
A typical house takes 9 to 14 months on site after approvals.
What warranty will a new home need?
Lenders usually require a structural warranty or a professional consultant’s certificate. The warranty is arranged before work starts, and the provider inspects the build at key stages.
Who approves a new build home in Chatham?
Planning matters in Chatham go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. We prepare and submit the applications 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.
