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 Lerwick?
In Lerwick, a new build home typically costs £1,950–£3,100 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 £292,500–£465,000. Island and remote projects usually cost more than this guide because of shipping, travel and accommodation. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (105 m²) | £205,000–£325,500 |
| Typical project (150 m²) | £292,500–£465,000 |
| Larger project (210 m²) | £409,500–£651,000 |
| Rate per m² | £1,950–£3,100 |
The biggest cost drivers are:
- Site access and demolition
- Specification and energy systems
- External works and landscaping
- Size and complexity of the house
Your exact price depends on the survey and drawings. The guide price tool gives a quick range in the meantime.
Do you need planning permission for a new build home in Lerwick?
Whether you need planning permission depends on your house and its location in Scotland. In Scotland a new home needs planning permission and a building warrant before work starts.
In Scotland a building warrant is needed before work starts on most extensions, loft conversions and conversions. It is issued by the council’s building standards service. When the work is finished, a completion certificate is submitted and accepted by the council after inspection.
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:
- Building control completion and warranty liaison
- Structural and services design
- Site appraisal and feasibility
- Mechanical and electrical installation
- Internal fit-out and finishes
- Design and planning application
How long does it take?
Build time is typically 9 to 14 months on site for a typical house. Allow time beforehand for drawings and approvals, usually 4 to 9 months.
Building in Lerwick
In Scotland, bungalows and one-and-a-half-storey homes are common, so dormer conversions are a popular way to add bedrooms.
Because Lerwick is reached by sea, we confirm availability before quoting and list shipping and travel costs separately.
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
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 Lerwick
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.
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 Lerwick?
In Lerwick, a new build home typically costs £1,950–£3,100 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 £292,500–£465,000. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
How long does a new build home take in Lerwick?
Typically 9 to 14 months on site for a typical house. Design and approvals beforehand usually take 4 to 9 months.
Is Community Infrastructure Levy payable?
In areas with CIL, new homes may be liable. Self-builders can apply for an exemption before work starts.
Do I need planning permission for a new build home in Lerwick?
In Scotland a new home needs planning permission and a building warrant before work starts.