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 Camden?
In Camden, a garden annexe typically costs £2,350–£3,650 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 35 m² project that is roughly £82,000–£128,000. The guide for Camden reflects typical costs in London, roughly 30% above the UK-wide figure. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (24 m²) | £56,500–£87,500 |
| Typical project (35 m²) | £82,000–£128,000 |
| Larger project (49 m²) | £115,000–£179,000 |
| Rate per m² | £2,350–£3,650 |
The biggest cost drivers are:
- Heating type
- Kitchen and bathroom
- Access for materials
- Drainage connection distance
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 Camden?
Before anything is built in Camden, 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.
If the answer is not clear-cut, we can apply for formal confirmation before you commit to the build.
What we handle
From survey to sign-off, the job normally involves:
- Glazed doors and windows
- Building control sign-off
- Insulated walls and roof
- Planning drawings and application
- Electrics and heating
- Foundations and drainage connections
How long does it take?
Expect 10 to 16 weeks on site. Allow time beforehand for drawings and approvals, usually 3 to 4 months.
Building in Camden
Victorian and Edwardian terraces dominate many London streets, which is why side return, wraparound and mansard projects are so common here.
From N1C outwards, we take on projects throughout Camden and the surrounding parts of Greater London.
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
Construction and completion
We build, put right any snags and hand over the building control certificate.
Questions about garden annexes in Camden
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 Camden?
In Camden, a garden annexe typically costs £2,350–£3,650 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 35 m² project comes to roughly £82,000–£128,000. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Does it need building regulations?
Yes, as it contains sleeping accommodation and services.
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 long does a garden annexe take in Camden?
Typically 10 to 16 weeks on site. Design and approvals beforehand usually take 3 to 4 months.
