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 Bangor, County Down?
In Bangor, a garden annexe typically costs £1,550–£2,400 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 35 m² project that is roughly £54,000–£84,000. Prices across Northern Ireland are typically 14% below the UK average for this kind of work, which is reflected in the range for Bangor. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (24 m²) | £37,000–£57,500 |
| Typical project (35 m²) | £54,000–£84,000 |
| Larger project (49 m²) | £76,000–£117,500 |
| Rate per m² | £1,550–£2,400 |
The biggest cost drivers are:
- Size and layout
- Kitchen and bathroom
- Drainage connection distance
- Cladding and finishes
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 Bangor, County Down?
Approvals for a garden annexe in Bangor follow the rules for Northern Ireland. In Northern Ireland an annexe with living accommodation needs planning permission and building control approval.
In Northern Ireland building control approval comes from the council, usually through a full plans application or a building notice, with inspections during the work and a completion certificate at the end.
Our first visit includes a check of your planning history, so you know the route before paying for drawings.
What we handle
Handled as part of most garden annexes:
- Kitchenette and shower room
- Insulated walls and roof
- External cladding or brickwork
- Planning drawings and application
- Electrics and heating
- Building control sign-off
How long does it take?
Expect 10 to 16 weeks on site. Before that, surveys, drawings and approvals usually take 3 to 4 months, longer if the council asks for changes.
Building in Bangor, County Down
Northern Ireland has many detached and semi-detached homes on generous plots, which suits single-storey rear extensions and garage conversions.
Projects in Bangor (BT19 and BT20) are surveyed in person before we quote, so the price reflects your actual property.
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 Bangor, County Down
How much does a garden annexe cost in Bangor?
In Bangor, a garden annexe typically costs £1,550–£2,400 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 35 m² project comes to roughly £54,000–£84,000. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Do you build garden annexes in Bangor?
Yes. We build garden annexes across Bangor, including postcodes BT19 and BT20. Every project starts with a free home visit.
Can an annexe be rented out?
Not without further planning permission, as that would make it a separate dwelling.
How long does it take?
Typically 10 to 16 weeks on site.
Do I need planning permission for a garden annexe in Bangor?
In Northern Ireland an annexe with living accommodation needs planning permission and building control approval.
Does it need building regulations?
Yes, as it contains sleeping accommodation and services.
