House Construction Prices

Whether you are looking for information on house extension costs or new build construction prices we can help you assess your budget price.
For a helpful chart to estimate the cost of your project see the information set out below.  First measure the floor area of your building or extension then assess the complexity of your plans and read off the sliding scale of costs per square meter.
Estimating small building projects can be a complex process because it depends on the many factors that affect the construction prices. You will only get an accurate idea of the price for your individual project when all the drawings and schedules of work have been completed outlining your particular requirements, the type of house construction and any other factors specific to your project. New build houses tend to be cheaper per square meter than house extensions and renovation projects.
It is then advisable to get several builders to price the documents and compare prices. No two building contractors will arrive at the same price, but ensure that the priced document breaks down the items of work so you can compare properly. You also need to take account of how long the builder thinks the job will take and how many jobs they undertake at the same time. Get references from previous customers and visit any similar jobs the contractor has completed.
Below is a simple guide intended only as a starting point for you to assess if your house construction plans match your budget for the project. The actual eventual cost will depend on a myriad of factors such as geographical location, availability of contractors, complexity of the works and your specification for the construction. Use the diagram and budget descriptions as guide to the possible costs in pounds sterling per square meter for your overall construction costs excluding VAT.

Average £1,000 per square meter.
Low cost construction with no site constraints. Budget fittings and specification.
Average £1,250 per square meter.
More scope for construction choices and internal fit out.
Average £1,500 per square meter.
Standard construction and structural work. Average range fittings and specification.
Average £1,750 per square meter.
More structural complexity such as underpinning. Bespoke joinery or specialist items.
Average £2,000 per square meter.
Complex structures such as basements. Luxury features, handmade kitchens and wet rooms.
EXAMPLES OF OTHER BUDGET ADJUSTMENTS
London and South East weighting and other ‘hot spots’ could add 15% to 20% to project costs.
Difficult site conditions or access problems could add to project costs.
Size and shape of the project can add to or reduce the build costs. There is an ‘economy of scale’ so that the larger the size of project the more the price per square meter should reduce.
Reductions can be made if you have the skills to project manage the build yourselves by employing individual trades rather than a main contractor. Expect to reduce the costs by 10% to 15% typically.
Further useful reading:
Spon’s Architect’s and Builders’s Price Books
Davis Langdon
Spon’s House Improvement Price Book
Bryan J.D. Spain
The Housebuilders Bible
Mark Brinkley
The Site Managers Bible
Len Sales