Building a New Home in Salisbury: What Do You Need to Know Before You Start?

The Question

"I'm planning to build my own home in Salisbury, but I'm not sure where to start. What's involved, how long does it take, and how do I find the right builder?"

You're not alone—this is one of the most common questions homeowners ask us. A new build is exciting, but it's also a big undertaking. Getting the basics right at the start will save you money, time, and stress later on. Let's break down what you really need to know.

1. Choosing the Right Plot of Land

The land you choose will define your whole project—what you can build, how much it will cost, and even how easy it will be to get planning permission.

What to look for:

• —Access: Is there easy vehicle access for deliveries and machinery?
• —Services: Are utilities like water, gas, and electricity already on site?
• —Drainage and soil: Poor drainage or clay soil can make foundations more expensive.
• —Topography: Flat sites are cheaper to develop, while sloping land may need retaining walls.

Before purchasing a plot, it's smart to arrange a site visit with a local builder or surveyor. They'll spot potential problems early and advise what groundwork will be required. You can also learn more in our guide on our construction services.

2. Understanding Planning Permission

In Wiltshire, nearly all new build homes require full planning permission. You'll need to submit detailed plans to Wiltshire Council, including:

• —Site layout, floor plans, and elevations
• —Access details (especially for rural plots)
• —Drainage and waste management plans
• —Environmental impact considerations

How long does it take?

The council aims to decide on most full applications within 8–12 weeks, though larger or more complex developments can take longer. Working with a local contractor who has dealt with Salisbury-area permissions before can save you weeks of back-and-forth. We regularly collaborate with architects and planning officers to streamline approvals and ensure designs meet all local requirements.

3. How Much Does a New Build in Salisbury Cost?

This is usually the first question people ask, and understandably so. The cost of a new build varies depending on design, materials, and the size of the property—but here's a rough guide for a standard family home in Wiltshire:

Don't forget to include:

• —Groundworks (often £20,000–£50,000 depending on the site)
• —Professional fees (architect, planning, surveys)
• —Contingency fund (at least 10–15% for unexpected costs)

Choosing a transparent builder who provides a detailed written quote for each stage helps you budget accurately and avoid surprises later.

Please note the above prices are just examples – all projects will require a tailored quote due to multiple factors and variables.

4. How Long Does It Take to Build a New Home?

Every project is different, but for a typical 3–4 bedroom detached home, the full process—from planning to completion—usually takes 9 to 15 months.

Here's how that breaks down:

• —Planning & design: 2–4 months
• —Groundworks & foundations: 1–2 months
• —Structural build (walls, roof, shell): 3–5 months
• —Interior & finishing: 2–4 months

External factors like weather, material delays, or complex designs can add time, but a clear project schedule helps you stay on track.

5. What Are the Main Stages of Construction?

If you've never built before, the process can seem like a mystery. In reality, it follows a well-defined structure:

At Complete Construction Salisbury, our team manages each phase under one roof for consistency and accountability. You can see examples of this in our recent new build projects.

6. What Permissions and Inspections Will You Need?

Besides planning permission, new builds must meet Building Regulations, covering structure, energy efficiency, ventilation, and fire safety. Your local Building Control officer will inspect the work at key stages, such as:

• —Foundation excavation
• —Damp-proof course
• —Roof construction
• —Final completion

A reputable builder will coordinate all these visits and provide the final completion certificate for your mortgage or insurance provider.

7. How Do You Choose the Right Builder in Salisbury?

Choosing your builder is arguably the most important decision of all. Look for:

• —Experience: Ask to see examples of completed projects.
• —Local knowledge: Builders familiar with Salisbury know the soil, suppliers, and planning expectations.
• —Communication: Clear timelines, written quotes, and responsive contact.
• —Certifications: Membership of trade bodies or accreditations show professionalism.
• —Reviews: Ask for testimonials or check independent platforms.

At Complete Construction Salisbury, we pride ourselves on transparency and communication. You can read more about our ethos in Why Complete Construction Salisbury Stands Out.

8. When Should You Contact a Builder?

Ideally, bring a builder into the conversation before you apply for planning permission. An experienced contractor can flag practical issues in the design, help estimate costs accurately, and even liaise with your architect to refine the plans. Early involvement saves time, reduces changes mid-build, and ensures your budget aligns with your vision.

The Takeaway

Building a new home in Salisbury is a major project, but with the right preparation and local expertise, it can be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life. Start with the right plot, secure your permissions, plan a realistic budget, and choose a team that understands both the technical side and the local landscape.

If you're ready to explore your own new build, or just want to talk through what's possible, our team is happy to help. We offer honest guidance, local knowledge, and a full service from the first dig to the final finish.

Contact us today to start planning your new build in Salisbury.