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The Daily Insight

What happens when you complete on a new build house?

Author

James Craig

Published Mar 21, 2026

Completion day is when the buyer will pick up the keys for their new house. The ownership will be transferred from the seller to the buyer, and the seller must move out. The buyer can move into the house on completion day with the help of a removal company.

Can you move into a new build before completion?

However, a buyer has no right to access a property after exchange and before completion without the express permission of the seller. If the seller will not entertain the idea of access, you will either have to do the work following completion or walk away and find another suitable property.

How long are new build houses meant to last?

The question of how long a property should last is often debated in the construction industry. In 1992, it was suggested that new build properties should have at least a 60-year lifespan. However, just 25 years on, the Local Government Association (LGA) has stated that new-build homes should last at least 2,000 years.

How long does it take to move into a new build flat?

Moving into an existing property can be achieved in 6-8 weeks as long as the process runs smoothly. However, if you are looking to move even quicker, buying a new-build home is a great option.

Can you exchange without a completion date on a new build?

Do you need a completion date to exchange contracts? Yes, exchange of contracts can’t take place without a completion date agreed. The completion date is written into the contracts and so this must be in place for the solicitors to be able to do the final checks before exchange of contracts can take place.

How do I get out of a new build contract?

  1. No, you cannot back out of a new construction home contract, because it is a legally binding contract between the builder and the buyer.
  2. It’s common to see people wanting to back out of a new construction home contract.
  3. When you’re thinking about pulling out of a new build house, it can seem like a scary thing.

How long after you exchange do you complete?

Completion usually takes place 1-2 weeks after the exchange of contracts, but it can take up to a few months. Longer delays can occur if: Someone in the chain is renting and needs to give notice to terminate their tenancy. A property in the chain is a new build, as they might not be finished on time.

Moving into an existing property can be achieved in 6-8 weeks as long as the process runs smoothly. However, if you are looking to move even quicker, buying a new-build home is a great option. Take a look at some of our available homes and start your next move today.

How much are solicitors fees for buying a new build house?

A fully qualified reputable solicitor in London offering a fixed fee is likely to charge between £850 and £1500 including VAT at 20%* depending on their seniority and expertise. If additional legal work is required beyond the remit of the standard conveyancing process additional fees would be payable.

Why is my new build house cold?

Thermal imaging often finds air pockets behind plasterboard walls, causing cold spots and reduced thermal efficiency. This can render energy efficiency ratings meaningless. Between them they have tested thousands of new homes in recent years, and say virtually all leak air, to a greater or lesser extent.