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 Washington?
In Washington, a new build home typically costs £1,800–£2,900 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 £270,000–£435,000. The guide for Washington reflects typical costs in the North East, roughly 10% below the UK-wide figure. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (105 m²) | £189,000–£304,500 |
| Typical project (150 m²) | £270,000–£435,000 |
| Larger project (210 m²) | £378,000–£609,000 |
| Rate per m² | £1,800–£2,900 |
The main things that change the cost:
- Services connections
- Specification and energy systems
- Size and complexity of the house
- 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 Washington?
Before anything is built in Washington, we confirm which approvals apply 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.
Our first visit includes a check of your planning history, so you know the route before paying for drawings.
What we handle
What we take care of:
- Mechanical and electrical installation
- Groundworks, foundations and drainage
- Site appraisal and feasibility
- Design and planning application
- Structural and services design
- Superstructure, roof and windows
How long does it take?
Allow 9 to 14 months on site for a typical house. Allow time beforehand for drawings and approvals, usually 4 to 9 months.
Building in Washington
Across the North East, colliery-era terraces and newer estates sit side by side, so the right project depends on the house type.
We work across Washington and neighbouring areas such as Chester-le-Street, Houghton-Le-Spring and Hebburn. Postcodes we cover in Washington include NE37 and NE38.
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 fixed quote
Drawings, structural calculations and an itemised, fixed price for the agreed specification.
- 03
Permissions sorted
Applications, building control and neighbour arrangements, all before the start date.
- 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 Washington
How much does a new build home cost in Washington?
In Washington, a new build home typically costs £1,800–£2,900 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 £270,000–£435,000. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Can you build to my architect’s design?
Yes. We price and build from your drawings, or we can manage the design for you.
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 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 Washington?
Planning matters in Washington go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. We prepare and submit the applications for you.
