New Build Homes in North London: From Site Appraisal to Completion

A new build home gives you the chance to design a property around how you want to live, but it is a long process with many stages. Understanding the route helps you plan your time and budget.

Site appraisal

Before anything is designed, the site needs to be understood. That includes ground conditions, access, services, boundaries, trees, flood risk and planning history. Problems found at this stage cost far less to deal with than those found on site.

Design and planning

Design develops from concept sketches to planning drawings. Planning applications for new homes usually involve more consultation and supporting documents than householder schemes, so allow time for the process.

Building Regulations and technical design

Once planning is secured, technical drawings and specifications show how the house will be built. Structural engineering, drainage design and energy performance calculations are all part of this stage.

Construction

• Groundworks and foundations

• Structure and external walls

• Roof and weathertight shell

• First fix services, insulation and plastering

• Kitchens, bathrooms, second fix and decoration

• External works, landscaping and final inspections

Warranties and completion

New homes are typically covered by a structural warranty, which mortgage lenders often require. Building control signs off the completed building, and you receive certificates and handover documents.

Tax

The construction of a new dwelling is generally zero-rated for VAT, but the rules are specific, so you should take professional tax advice on your own project.

Take a look at our Cockfosters new build to see how a bespoke residential scheme comes together.

Thinking about a project in London? Get in touch with Tota Design & Build to talk it through.