New-build homes in Dorset

Covering Dorset

Our coverage across Dorset includes Bournemouth, Poole, Weymouth and Christchurch.

Homes in the South West

Homes in the South West range from coastal and rural properties in stone and slate to city terraces and modern estates, so extensions are designed to match the local materials.

What is included in a new-build home in Dorset?

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
Building regulations design and warranty liaison

What is the guide price for a new-build home in Dorset?

Guide prices for new-build homes, including VAT where it applies. Your fixed price is confirmed in writing after the survey.

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

Planning and building rules in Dorset

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 can affect a new-build home?

Most lenders want a structural warranty or architect’s certificate on a new home.
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

Send us the details. Give us a postcode, a rough idea of size and some photos, by phone, form or the guide price tool.
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.
Build and hand over. Our teams build to the programme, building control inspects, and you get the completion paperwork at the end.

New-build homes: common questions

Is VAT charged on building a new house?

Building a new dwelling is usually zero-rated when done by a VAT-registered builder. We confirm the position for your project.

Do I need a structural warranty?

If you need a mortgage or may sell within ten years, a structural warranty or professional consultant’s certificate is usually required.

Do you work in Dorset?

Yes. Dorset is within our coverage for new-build homes, along with nearby Bournemouth and Poole.

Also covering

Learn more about new-build homes, or see every project we cover in Dorset.