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 Bournemouth?
In Bournemouth, 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. Prices in the South West sit near the national average for this kind of work, and the range for Bournemouth reflects that. 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 |
Your quote will depend mainly on:
- Cladding and finishes
- Heating type
- Size and layout
- Drainage connection distance
For a figure based on your own measurements, try the guide price tool, then book a free home visit for a fixed quote.
Do you need planning permission for a garden annexe in Bournemouth?
Approvals for a garden annexe in Bournemouth follow the rules for 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
On a typical garden annexe we handle:
- Planning drawings and application
- Building control sign-off
- Electrics and heating
- External cladding or brickwork
- Kitchenette and shower room
- Insulated walls and roof
How long does it take?
Allow 10 to 16 weeks on site. Allow time beforehand for drawings and approvals, usually 3 to 4 months.
Building in Bournemouth
In parts of the South West, protected landscapes and conservation areas shape what can be built, so materials and roof forms are chosen carefully.
Projects in Bournemouth (BH1, BH2, BH7 and BH10) 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
Planning or permitted development confirmation, building regulations and any party wall matters.
- 04
Build and sign-off
We run the build to a written programme and hand over the completion certificate.
Questions about garden annexes in Bournemouth
Does a garden annexe need planning permission?
Usually yes if it is used as living accommodation. Outbuildings under permitted development must be incidental to the house, such as a gym or office, not bedrooms.
How much does a garden annexe cost in Bournemouth?
In Bournemouth, 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.
Does it need building regulations?
Yes, as it contains sleeping accommodation and services.
Do you build garden annexes in Bournemouth?
Yes. We build garden annexes across Bournemouth, including postcodes BH1, BH2, BH7 and BH10. Every project starts with a free home visit.
Can it be accessible?
Yes. Level access, wider doors and a wet room can be designed in.
