Ever wondered what it really takes to go from a patch of land to your dream home? For many, building a new build house in Guildford is one of the most exciting journeys they’ll ever embark upon – and equally, one of the most complex. Knowing how long a new build takes isn’t just about satisfying curiosity; it’s about planning your life, budget, and expectations realistically.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through every stage of a new build in Guildford, from initial planning and choosing the right plot to handing over the keys to your custom home. Along the way, we’ll answer some of the most common questions, like which companies build new homes in the Guildford area? and what are the average prices of new builds in Guildford? We’ll also show how working with a specialist like Godman Construction can make the process smoother, faster, and less stressful.
Why Knowing Timelines Matters
A new build isn’t like buying a ready-made home. Every stage—from planning to completion—has dependencies, potential delays, and important milestones. Misjudging how long a new build takes can lead to frustration, missed moving dates, and unexpected costs.
Think of it like preparing for a major trip: you wouldn’t pack and leave without checking your route, travel time, or weather. Similarly, knowing what to expect during a new build helps you plan with confidence.
Stage 1: Preparing Your Plot and Securing Permissions (4–12 Weeks)
Before construction begins, the groundwork starts—literally and figuratively. This stage includes:
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Selecting Your Plot: Guildford has high-demand areas for new builds, from Shalford to the town center. Choosing the right location affects your lifestyle, budget, and long-term property value.
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Surveying and Soil Testing: Ensures your home has a stable foundation.
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Planning Permission: Most new builds in Guildford require approval from the local council. This process typically takes 4–12 weeks, depending on the complexity of your design.
Working with Godman Construction ensures this stage is handled efficiently, with expert guidance on local planning requirements and paperwork.
Stage 2: Design and Pre-Construction (6–16 Weeks)
Once planning permission is granted, it’s time to turn your vision into detailed plans:
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Architectural Design and Layout: Customizing your new build house in Guildford to suit your lifestyle.
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Material Selection: Choosing finishes, fittings, and structural materials that reflect your style and budget.
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Detailed Drawings and Approvals: Ensures the construction team knows exactly what to build.
Delays at this stage often come from indecision on finishes or waiting for approvals, but Godman Construction helps clients navigate these efficiently.
Stage 3: Groundwork and Foundations (2–6 Weeks)
With plans approved, construction begins:
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Clearing and leveling the plot
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Excavation and foundations
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Installing drainage systems
Weather can impact this stage, but experienced builders like Godman Construction manage risks to keep projects on track.
Stage 4: Structural Build – Walls, Roof, and Frames (12–24 Weeks)
This is the most visible stage: your home begins to take shape.
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External walls and brickwork
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Roof construction and waterproofing
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Windows and external doors fitted
Depending on the size and complexity of the build, this stage can take 3–6 months. Watching your new build house in Guildford rise from the ground is one of the most exciting parts of the journey.
Stage 5: First Fix and Internal Systems (6–12 Weeks)
With the structure in place, the focus shifts indoors:
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Installing plumbing, heating, and electrical systems
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Fitting insulation and plastering
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Preparing for flooring and interior finishes
Attention to detail is critical at this stage. Mistakes can be costly later, which is why trusting specialists like Godman Construction is invaluable.
Stage 6: Second Fix and Finishing Touches (6–12 Weeks)
Now your home begins to feel like yours:
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Kitchens, bathrooms, and wardrobes installed
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Decoration, painting, and final carpentry
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Flooring, tiling, and final fittings
This stage is often longer than anticipated if there are last-minute changes to finishes or design.
Stage 7: Snagging and Handover (2–4 Weeks)
Even with careful planning, minor issues may arise. Snagging involves:
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Checking all installations and finishes
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Correcting defects or imperfections
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Conducting a final client walk-through
Once completed, your new build house in Guildford is ready for you to move in.
Which Companies Build New Homes in the Guildford Area?
If you’re wondering Which companies build new homes in the Guildford area?, the answer is simple: for bespoke, high-quality builds, Godman Construction is the local expert you can rely on. Their team handles everything from planning approvals to finishing touches, ensuring your project runs smoothly and efficiently. Learn more about their New Builds in Guildford here.
What Are the Average Prices of New Builds in Guildford?
Understanding costs is essential before starting a project. Typical prices for new builds in Guildford:
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1–2 Bedroom Homes: £350,000–£450,000
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3 Bedroom Homes: £450,000–£700,000
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4+ Bedroom Homes: £700,000–£1.2M+
Prices vary depending on plot, location, finishes, and size. Partnering with Godman Construction ensures you get value for your investment, with guidance on budgeting, materials, and design choices.
Building a new build house in Guildford is an exciting journey, but it requires careful planning and the right support. Understanding the timeline helps you manage expectations, plan finances, and enjoy the process.
Working with Godman Construction ensures your project benefits from expert guidance, efficient construction, and attention to detail at every stage. From plot selection to handover, they provide everything needed to bring your dream home to life.
Ready to get started?
Contact our team to discover how we can help you.