New Build Design and Build Process: Step by Step Guide 2026

Understanding the new build design and build process before committing to a project gives you a clear picture of what to expect, how long each stage takes and what decisions you will need to make along the way. LCCL Construction delivers new build houses across London, Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire using a tried and tested design and build process that gives you one company, one estimate and one point of contact from initial brief through to handover.

LCCL Construction — complete design and build process for new build houses across London, Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire

What Is the Design and Build Process for a New Build House?

The design and build process combines architectural design and construction under one roof. Rather than separately appointing an architect and then tendering to builders, a design and build company like LCCL Construction handles every stage. This gives you a single point of accountability, a clear cost from day one and a faster overall timeline.

Step 1 — Initial Consultation and Feasibility

The process begins with a free initial consultation where LCCL Construction visits your site, assesses planning feasibility, reviews ground conditions, discusses your brief and budget and provides an initial cost range. This stage typically takes 2 to 4 weeks and includes a site survey, planning policy review and initial feasibility report. There is no cost for the initial consultation.

Step 2 — Design Brief and Concept Design

Once you appoint LCCL Construction our architectural team prepares a measured survey of the site, existing drawings if applicable and initial concept designs showing the proposed floor plans, elevations and key design features. We work with you through an iterative design process to refine the scheme until it meets your brief. This stage typically takes 4 to 8 weeks.

Step 3 — Pre-Application Consultation

For new build projects we strongly recommend pre-application consultation with the local planning authority before formal submission. This gives early feedback on the proposed design, identifies any potential objections and significantly improves the chances of first-time planning approval. See our full guide to new build planning permission for more detail.

Step 4 — Planning Application

LCCL Construction prepares and submits the full planning application including location plan, site plan, existing and proposed drawings, design and access statement and all required supporting documents. We manage the application through the determination process, respond to planning officer queries and negotiate conditions. Planning permission typically takes 8 to 13 weeks from submission.

Step 5 — Building Regulations and Structural Design

Once planning permission is granted our structural engineer and building regulations team prepare the full technical package — structural calculations, energy performance calculations, drainage design, fire strategy and detailed construction drawings. Building regulations approval is obtained before construction commences. This stage runs alongside or immediately after planning and typically takes 6 to 10 weeks.

Step 6 — Construction

Construction begins with site preparation, demolition if required and groundworks. LCCL Construction manages all trades throughout the build — groundworkers, bricklayers, structural steel installers, roofers, glaziers, electricians, plumbers, plasterers and decorators. A dedicated project manager provides weekly updates and coordinates every aspect of the build. See our guide on how long a new build takes for a full construction timeline breakdown.

Step 7 — Completion and Handover

The final stage covers snagging — a thorough inspection of all completed works — the building control final inspection and sign-off, landscaping and external works and handover of all warranties, certificates, as-built drawings and operating manuals. LCCL Construction provides a 12-month defects liability period following handover and the option of a 10-year LABC structural warranty.

Frequently Asked Questions About the New Build Design and Build Process

How long does the full new build design and build process take?

From initial consultation to completion typically 18 to 30 months — covering design, planning, building regulations and construction.

What is included in LCCL Construction's new build design and build service?

Everything — site survey, architectural design, planning application, building regulations, structural calculations, project management, construction and handover. One company, one estimate, one point of contact.

To discuss your new build project call LCCL Construction on 020 8037 7332 or get an instant quote online.