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 Hove?
In Hove, a garden annexe typically costs £2,000–£3,150 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 35 m² project that is roughly £70,000–£110,000. Prices across the South East are typically 12% above the UK average for this kind of work, which is reflected in the range for Hove. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (24 m²) | £48,000–£75,500 |
| Typical project (35 m²) | £70,000–£110,000 |
| Larger project (49 m²) | £98,000–£154,500 |
| Rate per m² | £2,000–£3,150 |
Your quote will depend mainly on:
- Kitchen and bathroom
- Cladding and finishes
- Size and layout
- Drainage connection distance
Use the guide price tool to see how size and specification change the figure, then ask for a written, itemised quote.
Do you need planning permission for a garden annexe in Hove?
Approvals for a garden annexe in Hove 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.
Our first visit includes a check of your planning history, so you know the route before paying for drawings.
What we handle
From survey to sign-off, the job normally involves:
- Kitchenette and shower room
- Electrics and heating
- Glazed doors and windows
- External cladding or brickwork
- Planning drawings and application
- Insulated walls and roof
How long does it take?
The build itself usually takes 10 to 16 weeks on site. Allow time beforehand for drawings and approvals, usually 3 to 4 months.
Building in Hove
The South East has a broad mix of housing, from Victorian terraces in the towns to post-war semis and newer estates, so extension types vary street by street.
Hove sits in East Sussex. We cover the whole of Hove, including postcodes BN3.
How it works
- 01
Visit and measured survey
A free visit to understand the project, check access and take measurements.
- 02
Drawings and written quote
We prepare the design and give you a written, itemised quote with inclusions and exclusions.
- 03
Approvals
Planning or permitted development confirmation, building regulations and any party wall matters.
- 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 Hove
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.
Does it need building regulations?
Yes, as it contains sleeping accommodation and services.
How much does a garden annexe cost in Hove?
In Hove, a garden annexe typically costs £2,000–£3,150 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 35 m² project comes to roughly £70,000–£110,000. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Can it be accessible?
Yes. Level access, wider doors and a wet room can be designed in.
How long does a garden annexe take in Hove?
Typically 10 to 16 weeks on site. Design and approvals beforehand usually take 3 to 4 months.
