Build with OCC
At O'Callaghan Construction, we specialise in building high-quality new homes for families across Cork City and County. Whether you already own a site or are just starting to explore your options, our team is here to guide you through the building process - clearly, confidently, and without unnecessary stress.
With decades of experience and a reputation built on trust, we offer a full turnkey service that brings your plans to life from the ground up. From site feasibility to handover, we manage every stage with care and attention to detail.
The scope of a new build can vary depending on the builder and the agreement in place. If you're buying a house in a large housing estate, it's often sold as a “builder's finish” - meaning you'll receive the structure, mechanical and electrical works, and some basic finishes, but will need to install kitchens, bathrooms, flooring, and interior fittings yourself.
With O'Callaghan Construction, we offer a full turnkey build which means your house is ready to move into. We manage every aspect of the construction, including kitchens, tiling, bathrooms, flooring, and more. You'll get a realistic allowance (known as a Prime Cost Sum or PC sum) for each major element. If you want something custom or high-spec, you're free to upgrade and simply pay the difference.
A new build typically refers to a home constructed on a previously undeveloped site - often called a greenfield site. This might be a rural plot or an urban infill site. In short, it's a home built from scratch where no house previously existed. New builds offer full flexibility in terms of layout, design, and finishes, making them an ideal option for people who want something tailor-made.
Not every plot of land is automatically suitable for residential development. Before you purchase a site or begin planning, it's a good idea to speak with an architect or engineer who can carry out a feasibility study. This study helps determine whether the land is zoned for housing and whether planning permission is likely to be granted.
In Cork City, planning permission tends to be more straightforward. However, in rural areas, restrictions such as “A3 zoning” can apply - which means planning is generally only granted to individuals with a local connection.
Feel free to run through your new build home plans with us, we can give you expert building advice and provide an estimate of work.
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We price every new build based on your drawings and your chosen level of finish. As part of our proposal, we include PC sums - realistic allowances for things like kitchens, wardrobes, tiles, and sanitaryware. This gives you clarity on what's included and the freedom to personalise certain elements of the home.
For example, if your kitchen allowance is €15,000 and you choose a kitchen that costs €18,000, you simply pay the extra €3,000. This approach gives you flexibility and control while ensuring your budget is kept on track.
Timelines can vary depending on the size and complexity of the project, but most new builds take between 6 and 12 months from the start of construction to completion. We'll provide a realistic timeline at the beginning, keep you updated throughout the process, and aim to complete the build on time and on budget.
Once planning permission is secured and construction drawings are in place, we can get started. Our team coordinates all the trades and suppliers, so you don't have to worry about chasing different contractors or juggling schedules.
Once your new home is completed and handed over, you or your architect or engineer will carry out a final check - known in Ireland as a snagging process. This involves walking through the house to ensure everything is finished correctly and working as expected.
Snagging might include checking that walls are properly painted, doors open and close smoothly, fixtures and fittings are installed correctly, and systems like heat recovery or appliances are functioning. If any issues are found - such as a sticking door or a dishwasher not working - they are noted in a snag list.
That list is then returned to us so we can complete the remaining items. In most cases, the final stage payment is held until the snag list is resolved and the home is fully signed off by your architect or engineer. It's the final step to ensure your home is exactly how it should be.
Yes - in most cases, you'll start the process with an architect or an engineer who will prepare your design and planning drawings. Once planning is granted, we take over and manage the build from start to finish. We're also happy to recommend trusted professionals we regularly work with, if you're just starting out.
If your project is more straightforward - like a replacement dwelling or a home within a serviced site - you might only need an engineer for the design stage. We're happy to review your plans and advise on what's needed, even before any formal engagement.
Feel free to run through your new build home plans with us, we can give you expert building advice and provide an estimate of work.
Get in touchWe're a family-run construction company based in Cork, known for quality work, clear communication, and a friendly, hands-on approach. Whether you're building your first home or your forever home, we make the process straightforward, stress-free, and built to last. Learn more about us