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 Leicestershire?
In Leicestershire, a new build home typically costs £1,900–£3,050 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 £285,000–£457,500. We start from a UK-wide guide and adjust it for the East Midlands, where labour and materials are typically about 5% below average. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (105 m²) | £199,500–£320,000 |
| Typical project (150 m²) | £285,000–£457,500 |
| Larger project (210 m²) | £399,000–£640,500 |
| Rate per m² | £1,900–£3,050 |
What moves the price most:
- Site access and demolition
- Ground conditions and foundations
- Services connections
- Size and complexity of the house
For a figure based on your own measurements, try the guide price tool, then book a free home visit for a fixed quote.
Do you need planning permission for a new build home in Leicestershire?
Here is how the rules work for a new build home 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
Handled as part of most new build homes:
- Structural and services design
- Building control completion and warranty liaison
- Mechanical and electrical installation
- Design and planning application
- Superstructure, roof and windows
- Groundworks, foundations and drainage
How long does it take?
Expect 9 to 14 months on site for a typical house. Allow time beforehand for drawings and approvals, usually 4 to 9 months.
Building in Leicestershire
The East Midlands has a mix of red-brick terraces, inter-war semis and newer estates, so rear extensions and garage conversions are common projects.
Towns we cover in Leicestershire include Leicester, Loughborough, Hinckley, Coalville, Wigston Magna and Melton Mowbray.
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
Planning or permitted development confirmation, building regulations and any party wall matters.
- 04
Construction and completion
We build, put right any snags and hand over the building control certificate.
Questions about new build homes in Leicestershire
How long does a new build take?
A typical house takes 9 to 14 months on site after approvals.
Who approves a new build home in Leicestershire?
Planning matters in Leicestershire go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. We prepare and submit the applications for you.
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.
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 much does a new build home cost in Leicestershire?
In Leicestershire, a new build home typically costs £1,900–£3,050 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 £285,000–£457,500. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
