Covering Rottingdean
Our coverage around Rottingdean (BN2, BN51) also includes Brighton (4 miles to the west) and Hove.
Homes in the South East
The South East has a lot of 1930s and post-war semi-detached housing, well suited to rear extensions and hip-to-gable loft conversions, alongside period properties in conservation areas that need a more careful design.
What goes into a knock down and rebuild?
We assess whether rebuilding is better value than extending and renovating, prepare the planning application for the replacement dwelling, manage the demolition notice and asbestos survey, then build the new home. The process runs much like a new build once the old house is cleared.
- Feasibility: rebuild versus extend and renovate
- Demolition and site clearance
- Reconnection of services and landscaping
What is the guide price for a knock down and rebuild in Rottingdean?
Typical ranges for knock down and rebuild. Ground conditions, access and specification move the final figure, which we fix in writing before work starts.
| Knock down and rebuild | Guide price |
|---|---|
| Demolition and site clearance (total) | £15,000 to £35,000 |
| Rebuild, standard specification (per m²) | £2,100 to £2,600 per m² |
| Rebuild, good specification (per m²) | £2,600 to £3,100 per m² |
| Rebuild, high specification (per m²) | £3,100 to £3,700 per m² |
What approvals does a knock down and rebuild need in England?
In England we deal with the council’s planning team for permission or a lawful development certificate, with building control (the council or a registered building control approver) for inspections, and with neighbours under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 where it applies.
This needs full planning permission from the council.
What should I think about before starting?
- A replacement dwelling is usually zero-rated for VAT where the old house is demolished completely to ground level.
- Asbestos is common in post-war houses and must be removed by licensed contractors where required.
What are the steps?
- Start with a conversation. A short call or the online form is enough for us to understand what you want to build.
- Site visit. We walk the plot or existing house, look at access, levels, services and boundaries, and talk through what could be built.
- Price and paperwork. The design is priced line by line, and we submit the planning and building control applications.
- We build it. Work follows an agreed programme, with inspections at each stage and a final sign-off.
Knock down and rebuild: common questions
Is VAT charged on a knock down and rebuild?
Usually not on the new house, if the old one is demolished completely and the new building is a qualifying dwelling.
Do I need planning permission?
Yes, for the replacement dwelling.
Who deals with the council for a project in Rottingdean?
We do. We prepare the drawings, submit planning or permitted development paperwork if needed, and arrange building control inspections.
Also covering
- Knock down and rebuild in Brighton
- Knock down and rebuild in Hove
- Knock down and rebuild in Seaford
- Knock down and rebuild in Burgess Hill
Learn more about knock down and rebuild, or see every project we cover in Rottingdean.

