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 Larne?
In Larne, a garden annexe typically costs £1,550–£2,400 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 35 m² project that is roughly £54,000–£84,000. Prices across Northern Ireland are typically 14% below the UK average for this kind of work, which is reflected in the range for Larne. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (24 m²) | £37,000–£57,500 |
| Typical project (35 m²) | £54,000–£84,000 |
| Larger project (49 m²) | £76,000–£117,500 |
| Rate per m² | £1,550–£2,400 |
What moves the price most:
- Cladding and finishes
- Access for materials
- Drainage connection distance
- Kitchen and bathroom
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 Larne?
Whether you need planning permission depends on your house and its location in Northern Ireland. In Northern Ireland an annexe with living accommodation needs planning permission and building control approval.
In Northern Ireland building control approval comes from the council, usually through a full plans application or a building notice, with inspections during the work and a completion certificate at the end.
We check this for your address before design work starts, so there are no surprises later.
What we handle
The work we manage on a garden annexe:
- Kitchenette and shower room
- Electrics and heating
- Building control sign-off
- Foundations and drainage connections
- External cladding or brickwork
- Insulated walls and roof
How long does it take?
Allow 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 Larne
Across Northern Ireland, bungalows and chalet bungalows are common, so loft conversions and rear extensions are popular projects.
Projects in Larne (BT40) are surveyed in person before we quote, so the price reflects your actual property.
How it works
- 01
Free visit
We look at the property, talk through what you want and measure up. There is no charge and no obligation.
- 02
Design and fixed quote
Drawings, structural calculations and an itemised, fixed price for the agreed specification.
- 03
Approvals
Planning or permitted development confirmation, building regulations and any party wall matters.
- 04
Build and sign-off
We run the build to a written programme and hand over the completion certificate.
Questions about garden annexes in Larne
How long does it take?
Typically 10 to 16 weeks on site.
Does it need building regulations?
Yes, as it contains sleeping accommodation and services.
Do I need planning permission for a garden annexe in Larne?
In Northern Ireland an annexe with living accommodation needs planning permission and building control approval.
How much does a garden annexe cost in Larne?
In Larne, a garden annexe typically costs £1,550–£2,400 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 35 m² project comes to roughly £54,000–£84,000. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Do you build garden annexes in Larne?
Yes. We build garden annexes across Larne, including postcodes BT40. Every project starts with a free home visit.
Can it be accessible?
Yes. Level access, wider doors and a wet room can be designed in.
