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 Braintree?
In Braintree, a garden annexe typically costs £1,900–£2,950 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 35 m² project that is roughly £66,500–£103,000. Building costs in the East of England run about 6% above the UK average, and the figures for Braintree are adjusted to reflect that. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (24 m²) | £45,500–£71,000 |
| Typical project (35 m²) | £66,500–£103,000 |
| Larger project (49 m²) | £93,000–£144,500 |
| Rate per m² | £1,900–£2,950 |
The main things that change the cost:
- Drainage connection distance
- Access for materials
- Cladding and finishes
- Heating type
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 Braintree?
Before anything is built in Braintree, 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.
We check this for your address before design work starts, so there are no surprises later.
What we handle
Handled as part of most garden annexes:
- Foundations and drainage connections
- Kitchenette and shower room
- Building control sign-off
- External cladding or brickwork
- Glazed doors and windows
- Electrics and heating
How long does it take?
Build time is typically 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 Braintree
Across the East of England, 1930s and post-war semis, newer estates and rural cottages all feature, each with different extension and loft options.
We work across Braintree and neighbouring areas such as Witham, Chelmsford and Maldon. Postcodes we cover in Braintree include CM7 and CM77.
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 handover
Work follows the agreed programme, with inspections along the way and a completion certificate at the end.
Questions about garden annexes in Braintree
How much does a garden annexe cost in Braintree?
In Braintree, a garden annexe typically costs £1,900–£2,950 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 35 m² project comes to roughly £66,500–£103,000. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Does it need building regulations?
Yes, as it contains sleeping accommodation and services.
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 a garden annexe take in Braintree?
Typically 10 to 16 weeks on site. Design and approvals beforehand usually take 3 to 4 months.
Can it be accessible?
Yes. Level access, wider doors and a wet room can be designed in.