What Questions to Ask a Luxury House Builder in London
September 12, 2025
Building a luxury home in London is one of life’s most exciting journeys. It’s a chance to create something that reflects your style, your family’s needs, and your long-term vision. But with so much at stake, choosing the right builder becomes the most critical decision you’ll make.
A nice brochure or website won’t tell you everything. The best way to find out if a builder is right for you is to ask the right questions from the start. Here are ten questions that can help you choose wisely.
1. How much experience do you have with high-end homes in London?
London has its own set of challenges. With conservation areas, listed buildings, and different rules in each borough, experience really counts. If a builder has worked in places like Kensington or Hampstead, they’ll know what to expect. Ask to see their finished projects, and if you can, visit a home they’ve built.
2. Will you take care of planning permission and regulations?
Getting planning permission in London isn’t always easy. A good builder should take care of this for you, dealing with the council and making sure everything meets the rules. Ask how they handle this and if they’ve got approvals in your area before.
3. Can I see your portfolio and speak to past clients?
Looking at a builder’s portfolio is helpful, but talking to people who have worked with them is even better. A good builder should let you speak to past clients. Hearing about their experience will help you know what to expect during the build and once you move in.
4. How do you manage budgets and unexpected costs?
Everyone worries about costs getting out of hand. Ask how the builder puts together their estimates and if they break down the costs for labour, materials, and extras. It’s also good to know how they handle changes if you want to upgrade something during the build. Getting clear answers now can save you stress later.
5. What timeline should I realistically expect?
Building a luxury home takes time. Most custom homes in London take 12 to 18 months from start to finish. Ask the builder about their typical timeline and how they handle delays caused by weather or supply issues. It’s better to have a realistic schedule than a promise that sounds too good to be true.
6. Who will I be dealing with on a day-to-day basis?
Big projects involve lots of people, from architects to tradespeople. Without a single main point of contact, it’s easy to get confused. The best builders provide a dedicated project manager who keeps you updated and answers your questions. Knowing who’s in charge makes everything run more smoothly.
7. Do you offer design support for bespoke features?
Luxury means something different to everyone. If you're interested in a wine cellar, spa, or library, ask if the builder can assist with designing these features or if they collaborate with designers. How well they work together will shape how your home turns out.
8. What warranties and aftercare do you provide?
Your connection with the builder continues after you move in. A good builder should provide a structural warranty, typically for 10 years, along with a clear process for addressing any issues within the first year. Ask how quickly they resolve issues once you’re living in your new home.
9. Who are your subcontractors, and how do you ensure quality?
The quality of your home depends on the people building it. Many builders use subcontractors they trust. Ask how they select and manage these teams, and what measures they take to ensure the work meets their standards.
10. What makes you different from other builders?
This question might seem basic, but it tells you a lot. A good builder should be able to explain what makes them different, whether it’s their skills, honesty, or how they work with clients.
Final Thoughts
Building a luxury home in London is more than just putting up walls. It’s about making a space that feels like yours. The right builder will have the skills you need and will listen to your ideas, making the process feel like a team effort instead of a headache.
At Luxury House Builders, we build custom homes across London and the South East. We handle everything from planning to handover, focusing on quality, honesty, and homes that last. If you’re ready to start, we’d love to hear your ideas.