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 County Londonderry?
In County Londonderry, 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. The guide for County Londonderry reflects typical costs in Northern Ireland, roughly 14% below the UK-wide figure. 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 |
The biggest cost drivers are:
- Size and complexity of the house
- Site access and demolition
- External works and landscaping
- Ground conditions and foundations
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 County Londonderry?
The approval route for County Londonderry is set by planning law 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.
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
- Groundworks, foundations and drainage
- Site appraisal and feasibility
- Internal fit-out and finishes
- Superstructure, roof and windows
- Structural and services design
How long does it take?
Allow 9 to 14 months on site for a typical house. Allow time beforehand for drawings and approvals, usually 4 to 9 months.
Building in County Londonderry
Northern Ireland has many detached and semi-detached homes on generous plots, which suits single-storey rear extensions and garage conversions.
Towns we cover in County Londonderry include Derry, Coleraine, Limavady and Magherafelt.
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 County Londonderry
How long does a new build take?
A typical house takes 9 to 14 months on site after approvals.
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 much does a new build home cost in County Londonderry?
In County Londonderry, 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.
Do I need planning permission for a new build home in County Londonderry?
In Northern Ireland a new home needs planning permission from the council and building control approval.
Who approves a new build home in County Londonderry?
Planning matters in County Londonderry go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. We prepare and submit the applications for you.
