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 Bushey?
In Bushey, 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. Prices across the East of England are typically 6% above the UK average for this kind of work, which is reflected in the range for Bushey. 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 |
Your quote will depend mainly on:
- Kitchen and bathroom
- Access for materials
- Cladding and finishes
- Heating type
A guide range is only a starting point: the guide price tool gives an instant figure for your size, and a free survey turns it into a fixed quote.
Do you need planning permission for a garden annexe in Bushey?
Whether you need planning permission depends on your house and its location 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:
- Glazed doors and windows
- Foundations and drainage connections
- Building control sign-off
- External cladding or brickwork
- Electrics and heating
- Kitchenette and shower room
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 Bushey
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 Bushey and neighbouring areas such as Watford, Stanmore and North Watford. Postcodes we cover in Bushey include WD1 and WD23.
How it works
- 01
Visit and measured survey
A free visit to understand the project, check access and take measurements.
- 02
Design and fixed quote
Drawings, structural calculations and an itemised, fixed price for the agreed 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 Bushey
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 Bushey?
In Bushey, 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.
Who approves a garden annexe in Bushey?
Planning matters in Bushey 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.
