Cost to build an eco friendly house

Question

We're looking at self build and want it as green as possible, solar, heat pump, decent insulation. How much does going eco really add to the build cost per square metre? Anyone got first hand experience here? Even percentages would help out

Mahmoud · Answer

Hi Greg,

From my experience, the cost can vary quite a lot depending on the size and specification of the house. A good-quality insulation system, air-tightness, solar panels and a heat pump will usually add to the initial build cost, but they can significantly reduce energy bills in the long term.

As a rough guide, I would allow around 10–20% extra compared with a standard build, depending on the level of eco specification you choose.

I’d be happy to discuss it further if you have the size and plans of the house.

Eric · Answer

Hello . Firstly be sceptical. Secondly be sceptical. The insulation integrity including doors and windows are the major part of building ecologically. Most eco houses are compromised by the governed air quality and heat exchange science . If you plan well . Check the Providence and sustainability of technical installation. Don't be afraid of comfort or economic offset . Then add 15% and you should have a cost that can be recouperated in a reasonable time .

Dave · Answer

Hi Greg,

The cost of building an eco-friendly house can vary considerably depending on the size of the property, location, ground conditions, design and, most importantly, the level of energy efficiency you are looking to achieve.

An eco-friendly build could include enhanced insulation and airtightness, high-performance windows and doors, air-source or ground-source heating, mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR), solar panels, battery storage, rainwater harvesting and sustainable building materials.

As a very broad guide, a new-build house in the UK can easily run into several thousand pounds per square metre once you move towards a high-specification, energy-efficient build. However, I would be very cautious about giving a meaningful cost per square metre without first seeing the plans and specification.

It is also worth remembering that spending money in the right areas during construction — particularly insulation, airtightness and the building fabric — can significantly reduce the property’s future energy requirements and running costs.

If you already have architectural drawings, planning information or even an approximate size and specification for the proposed house, a much more realistic budget can then be worked out.

Hope this helps.

Dave
Redstone Renovations & Landscaping Ltd

Cost to build an eco friendly house

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