Knock down and rebuild in Trowbridge

Covering Trowbridge

We work in Trowbridge (BA14) and the places around it, including Bath, Frome and Warminster.

Homes in the South West

The South West mixes stone and render cottages, Victorian terraces in the larger towns and modern estates, and many historic centres are conservation areas where materials and roof shapes are closely controlled.

What is 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.

Planning application for the replacement dwelling
Demolition and site clearance
New foundations, structure and full fit-out

How much should I budget for a knock down and rebuild?

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

How is a knock down and rebuild approved in Trowbridge?

Projects in England go through two separate checks. Planning (or confirmation that the work is permitted development) comes from the district, borough or unitary council, and building regulations approval comes from the council’s building control team or a registered building control approver. Where work touches a shared wall or digs near a neighbour’s foundations, the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 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.
Drawings, approvals, written quote. We prepare the design, apply for the approvals it needs, and give you a fixed price in writing.
Construction and completion. One site lead co-ordinates every trade through to the building control certificate.

What people ask before starting

Is it cheaper to knock down and rebuild or renovate?

It depends on the existing house. Where a house needs major structural work and a large extension, rebuilding can be similar cost and gives a better result. We compare both at feasibility.

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 you work in Trowbridge?

Yes. Trowbridge is within our coverage for knock down and rebuild, along with nearby Bath and Frome.

Other towns nearby

Learn more about knock down and rebuild, or see every project we cover in Trowbridge.