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 Bideford?
In Bideford, a garden annexe typically costs £1,850–£2,850 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 35 m² project that is roughly £65,000–£100,000. Building costs in the South West are close to the UK average, so the figures for Bideford are close to our national guide. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (24 m²) | £44,500–£68,500 |
| Typical project (35 m²) | £65,000–£100,000 |
| Larger project (49 m²) | £90,500–£139,500 |
| Rate per m² | £1,850–£2,850 |
The main things that change the cost:
- Size and layout
- Access for materials
- 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 Bideford?
Before anything is built in Bideford, we confirm which approvals apply in England. In England an annexe used as living accommodation usually needs planning permission. Outbuildings built under permitted development must be incidental to the house, such as a gym or office, not a bedroom.
Building regulations approval comes from the council’s building control service or a registered building control approver. The work is inspected at key stages, such as foundations, drainage and insulation, and a completion certificate is issued at the end.
At the survey we check your house’s planning history and any restrictions, and tell you which route applies.
What we handle
The work we manage on a garden annexe:
- Foundations and drainage connections
- Building control sign-off
- Glazed doors and windows
- Insulated walls and roof
- Kitchenette and shower room
- External cladding or brickwork
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 Bideford
In parts of the South West, protected landscapes and conservation areas shape what can be built, so materials and roof forms are chosen carefully.
If your home is in Bideford or close by in Barnstaple, Tiverton and Exeter, a free home visit is the first step.
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 Bideford
Does it need building regulations?
Yes, as it contains sleeping accommodation and services.
How much does a garden annexe cost in Bideford?
In Bideford, a garden annexe typically costs £1,850–£2,850 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 35 m² project comes to roughly £65,000–£100,000. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Can it be accessible?
Yes. Level access, wider doors and a wet room can be designed in.
Who approves a garden annexe in Bideford?
Planning matters in Bideford go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. We prepare and submit the applications for you.
How long does it take?
Typically 10 to 16 weeks on site.