What is a garden annexe?
A garden annexe is a single-storey building in the garden with its own living space, bathroom and often a kitchenette, used by relatives, older children or guests. Unlike a garden room, it is built as habitable accommodation with foundations, insulation and services.
How much does a garden annexe cost in Aberdeen and Grampian?
In Aberdeen and Grampian, a garden annexe typically costs £1,750–£2,700 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 35 m² project that is roughly £61,000–£94,500. Building costs in Scotland are close to the UK average, so the figures for Aberdeen and Grampian are close to our national guide. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (24 m²) | £42,000–£65,000 |
| Typical project (35 m²) | £61,000–£94,500 |
| Larger project (49 m²) | £86,000–£132,500 |
| Rate per m² | £1,750–£2,700 |
Your quote will depend mainly on:
- Drainage connection distance
- Size and layout
- Kitchen and bathroom
- Cladding and finishes
A guide range is only a starting point: the guide price tool gives an instant figure for your size, and a free survey turns it into a fixed quote.
Do you need planning permission for a garden annexe in Aberdeen and Grampian?
Approvals for a garden annexe in Aberdeen and Grampian follow the rules for Scotland. In Scotland an annexe with living accommodation needs planning permission and a building warrant.
In Scotland a building warrant is needed before work starts on most extensions, loft conversions and conversions. It is issued by the council’s building standards service. When the work is finished, a completion certificate is submitted and accepted by the council after inspection.
At the survey we check your house’s planning history and any restrictions, and tell you which route applies.
What we handle
What we take care of:
- Electrics and heating
- Foundations and drainage connections
- Kitchenette and shower room
- External cladding or brickwork
- Building control sign-off
- Planning drawings and application
How long does it take?
The build itself usually takes 10 to 16 weeks on site. Design and approvals come first and typically take 3 to 4 months, depending on the approval route.
Building in Aberdeen and Grampian
Scotland’s housing ranges from sandstone tenements and villas to post-war and modern estates, and the building warrant system shapes how projects are planned.
Towns we cover in Aberdeen and Grampian include Aberdeen, Elgin, Peterhead, Inverurie, Fraserburgh and Westhill.
How it works
- 01
Visit and measured survey
A free visit to understand the project, check access and take measurements.
- 02
Design and pricing
Design options, then a fixed quote based on the chosen drawings and specification.
- 03
Permissions sorted
Applications, building control and neighbour arrangements, all before the start date.
- 04
Build and handover
Work follows the agreed programme, with inspections along the way and a completion certificate at the end.
Questions about garden annexes in Aberdeen and Grampian
Do I need planning permission for a garden annexe in Aberdeen and Grampian?
In Scotland an annexe with living accommodation needs planning permission and a building warrant.
Will council tax apply?
Annexes can be banded separately, though discounts or exemptions apply in some cases when occupied by family. Check with your council.
How long does it take?
Typically 10 to 16 weeks on site.
How much does a garden annexe cost in Aberdeen and Grampian?
In Aberdeen and Grampian, a garden annexe typically costs £1,750–£2,700 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 35 m² project comes to roughly £61,000–£94,500. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Who approves a garden annexe in Aberdeen and Grampian?
Planning matters in Aberdeen and Grampian go to the council covering your address, and the work needs a building warrant. We prepare and submit the applications for you.
Can it be accessible?
Yes. Level access, wider doors and a wet room can be designed in.