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 Kensington?
In Kensington, a new build home typically costs £2,600–£4,150 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 £390,000–£622,500. That range is adjusted for London, where domestic building work typically costs around 30% above the national average. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (105 m²) | £273,000–£436,000 |
| Typical project (150 m²) | £390,000–£622,500 |
| Larger project (210 m²) | £546,000–£871,500 |
| Rate per m² | £2,600–£4,150 |
What moves the price most:
- Services connections
- Site access and demolition
- Specification and energy systems
- Size and complexity of the house
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 Kensington?
Approvals for a new build home in Kensington 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
From survey to sign-off, the job normally involves:
- Superstructure, roof and windows
- Design and planning application
- Site appraisal and feasibility
- Structural and services design
- Mechanical and electrical installation
- Internal fit-out and finishes
How long does it take?
Expect 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 Kensington
Many London boroughs have conservation areas and detailed design guides, so early design advice saves time at the planning stage.
From W8 outwards, we take on projects throughout Kensington and the surrounding parts of Greater London.
How it works
- 01
Visit and measured survey
A free visit to understand the project, check access and take measurements.
- 02
Design and fixed quote
Drawings, structural calculations and an itemised, fixed price for the agreed specification.
- 03
Approvals
Planning or permitted development confirmation, building regulations and any party wall matters.
- 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 Kensington
How long does a new build home take in Kensington?
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?
Yes. A new dwelling always needs full planning permission (or permission in principle followed by technical details consent in England).
How much does a new build home cost in Kensington?
In Kensington, a new build home typically costs £2,600–£4,150 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 £390,000–£622,500. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
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.
Can you build to my architect’s design?
Yes. We price and build from your drawings, or we can manage the design for you.