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 South Glamorgan?
In South Glamorgan, a new build home typically costs £1,850–£2,950 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 £277,500–£442,500. Building costs in Wales run about 8% below the UK average, and the figures for South Glamorgan are adjusted to reflect that. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (105 m²) | £194,000–£310,000 |
| Typical project (150 m²) | £277,500–£442,500 |
| Larger project (210 m²) | £388,500–£619,500 |
| Rate per m² | £1,850–£2,950 |
The main things that change the cost:
- Ground conditions and foundations
- Services connections
- Specification and energy systems
- Site access and demolition
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 South Glamorgan?
Before anything is built in South Glamorgan, we confirm which approvals apply in Wales. In Wales a new home needs full planning permission. Welsh building regulations require automatic fire suppression (sprinklers) in new homes, and sustainable drainage approval from the council’s SuDS approval body is needed for most new buildings.
Building regulations in Wales are set by the Welsh Government. Approval comes from the council’s building control service or a registered building control approver, with inspections during the work and a completion certificate at the end.
We check this for your address before design work starts, so there are no surprises later.
What we handle
From survey to sign-off, the job normally involves:
- Site appraisal and feasibility
- Internal fit-out and finishes
- Design and planning application
- Structural and services design
- Superstructure, roof and windows
- Building control completion and warranty liaison
How long does it take?
The build itself usually takes 9 to 14 months on site for a typical house. Allow time beforehand for drawings and approvals, usually 4 to 9 months.
Building in South Glamorgan
Terraced houses in Welsh towns often have narrow plots, which suits rear and side return extensions and rear dormers.
Towns we cover in South Glamorgan include Cardiff, Barry and Penarth.
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
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 sign-off
We run the build to a written programme and hand over the completion certificate.
Questions about new build homes in South Glamorgan
Do I need planning permission for a new build home in South Glamorgan?
In Wales a new home needs full planning permission. Welsh building regulations require automatic fire suppression (sprinklers) in new homes, and sustainable drainage approval from the council’s SuDS approval body is needed for most new buildings.
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 long does a new build home take in South Glamorgan?
Typically 9 to 14 months on site for a typical house. Design and approvals beforehand usually take 4 to 9 months.
How much does a new build home cost in South Glamorgan?
In South Glamorgan, a new build home typically costs £1,850–£2,950 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 £277,500–£442,500. 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.
Is Community Infrastructure Levy payable?
In areas with CIL, new homes may be liable. Self-builders can apply for an exemption before work starts.
