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 East Sussex?
In East Sussex, 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. The guide for East Sussex reflects typical costs in the South East, roughly 12% above the UK-wide figure. 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 |
Your quote will depend mainly on:
- Site access and demolition
- Size and complexity of the house
- 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 East Sussex?
Approvals for a new build home in East Sussex 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.
Our first visit includes a check of your planning history, so you know the route before paying for drawings.
What we handle
On a typical new build home we handle:
- Building control completion and warranty liaison
- Structural and services design
- Mechanical and electrical installation
- Site appraisal and feasibility
- Groundworks, foundations and drainage
- Internal fit-out and finishes
How long does it take?
Build time is typically 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 East Sussex
Commuter towns across the South East have many 1930s and post-war semis that suit rear extensions and hip-to-gable loft conversions.
Towns we cover in East Sussex include Brighton, Eastbourne, Hastings, Hove, Bexhill-on-Sea and Hailsham.
How it works
- 01
Free visit
We look at the property, talk through what you want and measure up. There is no charge and no obligation.
- 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
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 East Sussex
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).
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.
How much does a new build home cost in East Sussex?
In East Sussex, 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.
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 long does a new build home take in East Sussex?
Typically 9 to 14 months on site for a typical house. Design and approvals beforehand usually take 4 to 9 months.