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 West Sussex?
In West Sussex, a new build home typically costs £2,250–£3,600 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 £337,500–£540,000. That range is adjusted for the South East, where domestic building work typically costs around 12% above the national average. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (105 m²) | £236,000–£378,000 |
| Typical project (150 m²) | £337,500–£540,000 |
| Larger project (210 m²) | £472,500–£756,000 |
| Rate per m² | £2,250–£3,600 |
The main things that change the cost:
- Ground conditions and foundations
- Size and complexity of the house
- External works and landscaping
- Site access and demolition
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 West Sussex?
Approvals for a new build home in West Sussex 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.
Our first visit includes a check of your planning history, so you know the route before paying for drawings.
What we handle
On a typical new build home we handle:
- Mechanical and electrical installation
- Building control completion and warranty liaison
- Design and planning application
- Internal fit-out and finishes
- Groundworks, foundations and drainage
- Site appraisal and feasibility
How long does it take?
Expect 9 to 14 months on site for a typical house. Before that, surveys, drawings and approvals usually take 4 to 9 months, longer if the council asks for changes.
Building in West Sussex
The South East has a broad mix of housing, from Victorian terraces in the towns to post-war semis and newer estates, so extension types vary street by street.
Towns we cover in West Sussex include Crawley, Worthing, Bognor Regis, Littlehampton, Horsham and Haywards Heath.
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
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 West Sussex
Is Community Infrastructure Levy payable?
In areas with CIL, new homes may be liable. Self-builders can apply for an exemption before work starts.
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.
Can you build to my architect’s design?
Yes. We price and build from your drawings, or we can manage the design for you.
How much does a new build home cost in West Sussex?
In West Sussex, a new build home typically costs £2,250–£3,600 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 £337,500–£540,000. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Who approves a new build home in West Sussex?
Planning matters in West Sussex go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. We prepare and submit the applications for you.
