Frequently asked questions about building in Portugal

Start with the cost of the house and what you can build on the land. These answers help you prepare your budget and proposal request, with links to explore each subject.

How much does it cost to build a house in Portugal in 2026, per m²?

A new premium house starts from €3,000/m² (building only, excluding landscaping and pool); a bespoke architect-designed or coastal house from €4,200/m². New construction typically starts from around €600,000. Indicative construction costs, excluding VAT and land; design fees quoted to suit each project. Read the cost guide and its exclusions.

What will it cost to build on my land? How do I check feasibility before buying?

For the house itself, budget from €3,000/m² (building only), or €4,200/m² for a bespoke or coastal design, excluding VAT. Before buying, a site review and a prior information request (PIP) establish the planning feasibility of what you want to build. See what changes the cost and read about PIP and the new RJUE.

How much does the architectural design of a house cost?

We quote fees to suit the programme and scope: architecture, engineering and licensing. Request a proposal with the location, intended floor area and services you need. Explore our design services.

What does “turnkey” mean, and what does it include?

We bring architectural design, engineering, licensing and construction into one contract. The same team follows the work from design to handover. The proposal and contract define the scope, specification, price, included work and exclusions. See how the integrated contract works and what is included and excluded from the construction budget.

How long does licensing take under the October 2026 RJUE?

We estimate the timetable from the municipality, proposed works, procedure and application status. The RJUE sets legal deadlines by phase; external consultations, requests for corrections and extensions form part of that assessment. Legal deadlines do not guarantee a decision date for your application. Read the deadlines, conditions and rules for pending applications.

I already have an approved design: can you just build it?

We assess construction work based on another architect’s design case by case. Send the approved design and we will review it before accepting the work. Explore our construction services.

LSF or modular: when does it make sense?

We build with LSF and modular systems as well as traditional construction. The choice depends on the site, timetable and programme. Explore our construction services.

Do you undertake full apartment renovations?

Yes, we undertake full apartment renovations, with budgets starting from €200,000, excluding VAT. This is an indicative construction figure; design fees are quoted to suit each project. Read the cost guide.

Can you legalise an existing building?

Yes, we handle the legalisation of existing buildings. The service includes a measured survey, a legalisation design and the municipal application. Read about planning titles and compliance of the works.

I live outside Portugal: can you manage everything remotely? In which languages?

Yes, we manage design and construction through one point of contact, BIM models and immersive visualisation for remote decisions, within the contracted scope. We work in Portuguese, English and French, and in Spanish with some limitations. See how we work with owners abroad.