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 Orpington?
In Orpington, 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. Building costs in London run about 30% above the UK average, and the figures for Orpington are adjusted to reflect that. 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 |
Your quote will depend mainly on:
- Specification and energy systems
- Services connections
- External works and landscaping
- Site access and demolition
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 Orpington?
Approvals for a new build home in Orpington 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.
At the survey we check your house’s planning history and any restrictions, and tell you which route applies.
What we handle
Handled as part of most new build homes:
- Internal fit-out and finishes
- Mechanical and electrical installation
- Design and planning application
- Superstructure, roof and windows
- Building control completion and warranty liaison
- Groundworks, foundations and drainage
How long does it take?
The build itself usually takes 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 Orpington
Space is at a premium in London, so homeowners often build out into the side return or up into the roof rather than move.
We work across Orpington and neighbouring areas such as Sidcup, Swanley and Bromley. Postcodes we cover in Orpington include BR6.
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 Orpington
Can you build to my architect’s design?
Yes. We price and build from your drawings, or we can manage the design for you.
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 Orpington?
In Orpington, 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.
How long does a new build home take in Orpington?
Typically 9 to 14 months on site for a typical house. Design and approvals beforehand usually take 4 to 9 months.
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.
