Covering Chester
Alongside Chester, we also cover Hawarden (6 miles to the west), Deeside and Ellesmere Port.
Homes in the North West
Terraced housing is a defining feature of many North West towns, which brings party walls and narrow access into most projects, with more space to extend on suburban semis.
What do you get with a new-build home?
A new-build home is a house built from the ground up on a plot, whether a one-off self-build for your family or a small group of homes. Building a new dwelling is usually zero-rated for VAT when carried out by a VAT-registered builder, which is a major cost difference from extensions and renovations.
- Plot appraisal and feasibility
- Design, planning application and discharge of conditions
- Superstructure, roof, windows and external finishes
How much should I budget for a new-build home?
Indicative costs for new-build homes. London and the South East usually sit towards the top of each range.
| New-build homes | Guide price |
|---|---|
| Standard specification | £2,000 to £2,500 per m² |
| Good specification | £2,500 to £3,000 per m² |
| High specification | £3,000 to £3,600 per m² |
Do you need permission for a new-build home in Chester?
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. We prepare the drawings and supporting documents, submit the application and respond to the planning officer.
What can change the price or programme?
- Utility connections (water, sewer, power) can take months to arrange, so we apply early.
- Self-builders can usually reclaim VAT on certain materials through HMRC’s DIY housebuilders scheme where they buy them directly.
From first call to completion
- 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.
- Build and hand over. Our teams build to the programme, building control inspects, and you get the completion paperwork at the end.
Questions about a new-build home in Chester
How much does it cost to build a new house?
Typically £2,000 to £3,600 per square metre to build, depending on specification, ground conditions and design. New dwellings are usually zero-rated for VAT.
How long does it take to build a house?
Usually 30 to 52 weeks on site, depending on size and method of construction.
Do you work in Chester?
Yes. Chester is within our coverage for new-build homes, along with nearby Hawarden and Deeside.
New-build homes in nearby towns
- New-build homes in Hawarden
- New-build homes in Deeside
- New-build homes in Ellesmere Port
- New-build homes in Buckley
Learn more about new-build homes, or see every project we cover in Chester.

