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 Aberystwyth?
In Aberystwyth, a garden annexe typically costs £1,650–£2,600 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 35 m² project that is roughly £58,000–£91,000. Building costs in Wales run about 8% below the UK average, and the figures for Aberystwyth are adjusted to reflect that. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (24 m²) | £39,500–£62,500 |
| Typical project (35 m²) | £58,000–£91,000 |
| Larger project (49 m²) | £81,000–£127,500 |
| Rate per m² | £1,650–£2,600 |
What moves the price most:
- Heating type
- Size and layout
- Drainage connection distance
- Access for materials
Your exact price depends on the survey and drawings. The guide price tool gives a quick range in the meantime.
Do you need planning permission for a garden annexe in Aberystwyth?
Whether you need planning permission depends on your house and its location in Wales. In Wales an annexe with sleeping accommodation usually needs planning permission; outbuildings under permitted development must be incidental to the house.
Building regulations in Wales are set by the Welsh Government. Approval comes from the council’s building control service or a registered building control approver, with inspections during the work and a completion certificate at the end.
We check this for your address before design work starts, so there are no surprises later.
What we handle
The work we manage on a garden annexe:
- External cladding or brickwork
- Foundations and drainage connections
- Building control sign-off
- Glazed doors and windows
- Insulated walls and roof
- Electrics and heating
How long does it take?
Expect 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 Aberystwyth
Wales has many terraced valley streets, stone cottages and post-war estates, so extension designs are shaped by slopes, materials and local character.
We work across Aberystwyth and neighbouring areas such as Llandrindod Wells, Newtown and Carmarthen. Postcodes we cover in Aberystwyth include SY23.
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
Approvals in place
We handle planning, building control and neighbour notices before work starts.
- 04
Build and sign-off
We run the build to a written programme and hand over the completion certificate.
Questions about garden annexes in Aberystwyth
Does it need building regulations?
Yes, as it contains sleeping accommodation and services.
Can it be accessible?
Yes. Level access, wider doors and a wet room can be designed in.
How much does a garden annexe cost in Aberystwyth?
In Aberystwyth, a garden annexe typically costs £1,650–£2,600 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 35 m² project comes to roughly £58,000–£91,000. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
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.
Do I need planning permission for a garden annexe in Aberystwyth?
In Wales an annexe with sleeping accommodation usually needs planning permission; outbuildings under permitted development must be incidental to the house.
How long does a garden annexe take in Aberystwyth?
Typically 10 to 16 weeks on site. Design and approvals beforehand usually take 3 to 4 months.
