How to Plan a New House Build

Before anything else, establish a realistic budget that covers every stage of the build. In the UK, self-build costs typically range from £1,500 to £3,000+ per square metre depending on specification and region.

• Factor in land purchase, professional fees (architect, surveyor, structural engineer), planning and building regulations fees, materials, labour, and landscaping.
• Set aside a contingency fund of at least 10–15% for unexpected costs.
• Explore self-build mortgages, which release funds in stages as your build progresses.

Securing the right plot is often the hardest part of a self-build. Use resources such as Plotfinder, the Right to Build Register, and local estate agents to identify opportunities.

• Check for planning permission history and any restrictive covenants on the land.
• Commission a structural survey and arrange environmental and ground condition assessments.
• Verify access to utilities — water, gas, electricity, and drainage connections can add significant cost if they are not already nearby.

A strong team of professionals is essential to a successful build. At minimum, you will need an architect or architectural designer, a structural engineer, and a project manager if you are not managing the build yourself.

• Choose RIBA-registered architects and RICS-accredited surveyors for added assurance.
• Agree fees and scope of service in writing before work begins.
• Consider hiring a quantity surveyor to keep costs under control throughout the project.

Planning permission is required for most new builds in England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Submit a full planning application to your Local Planning Authority (LPA) and expect a decision within eight to thirteen weeks.

• Engage with your LPA early via a pre-application consultation to understand local design expectations.
• Ensure your design complies with local development plan policies, including height, massing, and materials.
• If refused, you have the right to appeal — but this adds time and cost, so it is best avoided.

Once planning permission is granted and building regulations approval is in place, construction can begin. Decide whether to use a main contractor or manage individual subcontractors yourself.

• Create a detailed project timeline with key milestones: groundworks, superstructure, weathertight stage, first fix, second fix, and completion.
• Arrange site insurance, self-build warranty (such as NHBC Buildmark), and public liability cover before any work begins.
• Schedule regular site inspections with your building control officer to sign off each stage.