The build
The stages of building a house in Ireland
The order a self-build usually follows in Ireland, from site and planning through Building Control notices and drawdowns to the completion certificate.
Stage 6 of 7
Build
Site works, foundations, shell, services and finishes, with inspections and drawdowns along the way.
What happens
- The site is cleared and services connected, then foundations, walls and roof go up.
- First and second fix follow, then plastering, finishes and commissioning.
- Your certifier inspects at each stage, and your lender releases money against each inspection.
Typical time: About 9 to 14 months for a standard house.
Your checklist
Stage complete
Put this stage into practice
Guides for this stage
Start with the first guide, or choose the part you need help with.
Costs and grants
Timber frame, block or ICF: choose a build method
Compare timber frame, cavity block and insulating concrete formwork. Check the specification, installer, schedule and complete quote before choosing.
The build
How long does it take to build a house in Ireland?
Realistic timescales for a self-build in Ireland, from site search and planning to moving in, and the things that most often add months.
The build
Site works and connecting services to a self-build
Site preparation and service connections for an Irish self-build: access, water, electricity, wastewater and broadband, and what to apply for early.
The build
Modular homes: planning, building rules and your budget
How a modular home fits Irish planning and building regulations, what the July 2026 Class 3A rear-garden exemption covers, and what the supplier leaves to you.
Costs and grants
Passive House or nZEB: what are you paying for?
Agree your home’s energy target before getting quotes. Check what Passive House certification adds to Irish energy requirements and who will prove it.
Regulations
Meet the nZEB and Part L energy rules for your house
Plan insulation, heating and renewables to meet the nearly zero energy building (nZEB) standard. Part L targets, design checks and renovation rules.
Costs and grants
Heat pump for a new build in Ireland: type, sizing and cost
Choose between air-to-water, exhaust-air and ground-source heat pumps for a new house. Sizing, emitters, cost, grants and how it fits Part L.
Costs and grants
Solar PV on a new build: the Part L renewable requirement
How solar panels help a new house meet the Part L renewable energy ratio. When you need them, how many kWp, what they cost and the planning exemption.
The build
Water supply for a one-off house: mains, group scheme or well
Compare an Uisce Éireann connection, a group water scheme and a private well for a rural self-build. Costs, testing and what lenders ask for.