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 Derry?
In Derry, 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 Derry 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 |
Your quote will depend mainly on:
- Site access and demolition
- Services connections
- Ground conditions and foundations
- 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 Derry?
Before anything is built in Derry, we confirm which approvals apply 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.
At the survey we check your house’s planning history and any restrictions, and tell you which route applies.
What we handle
The work we manage on a new build home:
- Building control completion and warranty liaison
- Structural and services design
- Internal fit-out and finishes
- Site appraisal and feasibility
- Groundworks, foundations and drainage
- Design and planning application
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 Derry
Northern Ireland has many detached and semi-detached homes on generous plots, which suits single-storey rear extensions and garage conversions.
We work across Derry and neighbouring areas such as Strabane, Limavady and Coleraine. Postcodes we cover in Derry include BT47.
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 Derry
Do I need planning permission for a new build home in Derry?
In Northern Ireland a new home needs planning permission from the council and building control approval.
How much does a new build home cost in Derry?
In Derry, 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.
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 Derry?
Typically 9 to 14 months on site for a typical house. Design and approvals beforehand usually take 4 to 9 months.
Can you build to my architect’s design?
Yes. We price and build from your drawings, or we can manage the design for you.