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 Consett?
In Consett, a garden annexe typically costs £1,600–£2,500 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 35 m² project that is roughly £56,000–£87,500. Prices across the North East are typically 10% below the UK average for this kind of work, which is reflected in the range for Consett. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (24 m²) | £38,500–£60,000 |
| Typical project (35 m²) | £56,000–£87,500 |
| Larger project (49 m²) | £78,500–£122,500 |
| Rate per m² | £1,600–£2,500 |
The main things that change the cost:
- Size and layout
- Cladding and finishes
- Access for materials
- 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 Consett?
The approval route for Consett is set by planning law 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
Handled as part of most garden annexes:
- Planning drawings and application
- Building control sign-off
- Foundations and drainage connections
- Kitchenette and shower room
- Insulated walls and roof
- Electrics and heating
How long does it take?
The build itself usually takes 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 Consett
The North East has many terraced streets and post-war semis, where rear extensions and loft conversions are popular ways to gain space.
Consett sits in County Durham, about 12 miles north-west of Durham. We cover the whole of Consett, including postcodes DH8.
How it works
- 01
Survey and brief
We visit, discuss your ideas and budget, and survey the property or site at no cost.
- 02
Drawings and written quote
We prepare the design and give you a written, itemised quote with inclusions and exclusions.
- 03
Approvals in place
We handle planning, building control and neighbour notices before work starts.
- 04
Build and sign-off
We run the build to a written programme and hand over the completion certificate.
Questions about garden annexes in Consett
Does it need building regulations?
Yes, as it contains sleeping accommodation and services.
Who approves a garden annexe in Consett?
Planning matters in Consett go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. We prepare and submit the applications for you.
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 Consett?
In Consett, a garden annexe typically costs £1,600–£2,500 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 35 m² project comes to roughly £56,000–£87,500. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
How long does it take?
Typically 10 to 16 weeks on site.
