New Builds: Turning Ground into a Home.. What to Expect with DJJ Projects

Building your own home is one of the most exciting and sometimes daunting experiences you can undertake.

Turning an empty plot of land into a fully finished home involves a mix of vision, patience, and practical planning.

Whether you’re working with a developer on a new estate, commissioning a bespoke design, or managing your own build, understanding the process from start to finish can make all the difference.

This guide walks you through every major stage of a new build, from the first shovel in the ground to the day you collect your keys, including timelines, costs, and what you can expect along the way.

Planning, Permissions & Preparation

Before any work begins, it’s all about preparation.

Site selection and surveys are the first crucial steps.

Once you’ve found your plot, it’s important to carry out detailed site investigations, including soil tests, drainage checks, and any environmental considerations.

These determine the type of foundations required and help identify potential challenges early.

Next comes planning permission.

If you’re working with an architect or a design-and-build company, they’ll typically handle the submission of plans to your local council.

Even if you’ve purchased land with permission already granted (“outline” or “full” planning), you may still need building regulations approval before construction begins.

Tip: Build relationships with your local planning authority early, it helps ensure smoother communication throughout the process.

Key milestones in this stage:

• Site surveys and soil tests

• Design finalisation with architect

• Planning permission approval

• Building regulation compliance

• Utility and drainage planning

  
  

This stage can take anywhere from 8–20 weeks, depending on the complexity of your design and local authority workloads.

Groundworks & Foundations

Once you have the green light, it’s time to break ground.

The groundworks phase prepares your plot for construction.

This includes clearing vegetation, setting up site access, levelling the ground, and laying the initial utilities (water, gas, electric).

Then comes foundations, the backbone of your home.

The type (strip, raft, or pile) depends on your soil conditions and the size of your property. Accuracy here is vital: a well-laid foundation ensures the longevity and structural stability of the build.

During this time, you’ll also start seeing the first tangible signs of progress, as trenches, drainage systems, and concrete bases begin to take shape.

Typical duration: 2–4 weeks, weather permitting.

Structural Build – The Shell of Your Home

Now the excitement really begins.

The structural phase is where your home starts to rise from the ground.

Walls go up, floors are laid, and the roof structure takes shape.

This stage, often referred to as “getting to shell”, includes:

• Brickwork or blockwork

• Roof trusses and tiling

• Window and door openings

• First-fix plumbing and electrics (in some cases)

  
  

It’s at this point you’ll have what builders call a “watertight” shell, a home that can withstand the elements.

While it’s still a building site, it starts to look and feel like the place you’ll one day call home.

Key considerations:

• Choose energy-efficient insulation and materials early.

• Coordinate structural and M&E (mechanical and electrical) teams to avoid rework later.

  
  

Duration: 6–12 weeks, depending on size and complexity.

First Fix – Behind the Walls

With the structure up, attention turns to the internal workings.

The first fix stage includes all the behind-the-scenes essentials that will soon be hidden by plaster and paint: wiring, pipework, ventilation systems, and structural reinforcements.

Think of it as your home’s nervous system and arteries being installed.

It’s not glamorous, but it’s one of the most important parts of the build.

During this time, you’ll also make key decisions on:

• Electrical points and lighting layout

• Heating systems (boiler, underfloor, or renewable options)

• Smart home features or cabling for future upgrades

Pro Tip: Don’t rush this stage. Adjusting wiring or pipework later can be disruptive and costly.

Second Fix – The Finishing Touches

Once the internals are in place, it’s time for plastering, flooring, and finishing.

This is where your home truly begins to feel real.

Doors are hung, sockets and switches are fitted, tiles are laid, and your kitchen and bathrooms start to come to life.

Decorators move in to paint and finish walls, while joiners install staircases, wardrobes, and trim.

At this stage, you’ll also start thinking about landscaping and exterior finishes, driveways, patios, and planting.

This phase can take anywhere from 6–10 weeks, depending on your chosen finishes and how complex your interiors are.

Snagging, Inspections & Handover

Before you move in, your builder will conduct a full snagging inspection, a detailed review of any minor issues that need correction before handover.

These can include things like:

• Small paint imperfections

• Loose fittings or handles

• Minor plumbing adjustments

• Door alignment or sealing issues

  
  

You’ll usually conduct a final walk-through with your builder or project manager to review everything together.

Once you’re happy and sign off, you’ll receive:

• Completion certificate (Building Control)

• Warranties (NHBC, LABC, or equivalent)

• Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)

• User manuals and system information

  
  

Congratulations — it’s officially your home!

Aftercare, Maintenance & Settling In

Even after moving in, there’s a period of adjustment known as the settlement phase.

New homes naturally expand and contract as materials dry and adjust to internal heating.

You may notice small hairline cracks in plaster, completely normal and easily fixed.

Most reputable builders offer a defects period (usually 6–12 months) to address any teething issues that arise after handover.

It’s also a good time to think about:

• Registering warranties

• Setting up maintenance schedules

• Recording utility readings and suppliers

  
  

Taking care of your home from the start ensures it stays energy-efficient, safe, and beautiful for years to come.

Budgeting, Timelines & Hidden Costs

A new build involves many moving parts, and costs can vary significantly depending on design, location, and specification.

Average build timelines range from 6 to 18 months, and budgets can shift based on:

• Material costs and supply fluctuations

• Labour availability

• Planning or inspection delays

• Upgrades and design changes mid-project

  
  

  Pro Tip: Always include a 10–15% contingency fund for unexpected costs.

Working with experienced contractors who provide transparent quotes and detailed schedules helps you stay on track financially and emotionally.

Sustainability & Modern Living

Today’s new builds are about more than bricks and mortar, they’re designed for energy efficiency, smart living, and sustainability.

From air-source heat pumps to solar panels and high-grade insulation, homeowners are now looking for features that reduce energy bills and environmental impact.

Modern new builds also embrace:

• EV charging points

• Smart thermostats and lighting

• Rainwater harvesting systems

• Passive design for natural light and heat retention

  
  

These investments may cost a little more upfront, but they pay off in comfort, efficiency, and long-term value.

Turning a Build into a Home

Beyond the structure, there’s an emotional transformation too. Watching a blank plot evolve into a home is an unforgettable journey.

Every brick laid, every paint colour chosen, every fixture installed, it all tells a story.

Whether you’ve self-built or bought off-plan, the result is the same: a place that reflects your personality, your effort, and your vision.

Building a home isn’t just about the physical process, it’s about creating a space where memories will be made for years to come.

Final Thoughts

Building a new home is both challenging and rewarding, a test of patience and planning, but one of life’s most satisfying achievements.

By understanding each stage, preparing for delays, and surrounding yourself with trusted professionals, you’ll turn the process into a smooth, empowering experience.

Whether it’s your first new build or your forever home, knowing what to expect makes the entire journey, from blueprint to doorstep.. something truly special.

If you'd like to discuss your building needs or get a free quotation - get in touch today!

www.djjprojects.co.uk