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 Magherafelt?
In Magherafelt, 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. The guide for Magherafelt reflects typical costs in Northern Ireland, roughly 14% below the UK-wide figure. 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
- Kitchen and bathroom
- Heating type
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 Magherafelt?
Before anything is built in Magherafelt, we confirm which approvals apply 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.
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:
- External cladding or brickwork
- Glazed doors and windows
- Building control sign-off
- Electrics and heating
- Planning drawings and application
- Foundations and drainage connections
How long does it take?
Allow 10 to 16 weeks on site. Allow time beforehand for drawings and approvals, usually 3 to 4 months.
Building in Magherafelt
Northern Ireland has many detached and semi-detached homes on generous plots, which suits single-storey rear extensions and garage conversions.
Magherafelt sits in County Londonderry, about 29 miles west of Belfast. We cover the whole of Magherafelt, including postcodes BT45.
How it works
- 01
Survey and brief
We visit, discuss your ideas and budget, and survey the property or site at no cost.
- 02
Design and pricing
Design options, then a fixed quote based on the chosen drawings and specification.
- 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 Magherafelt
Can an annexe be rented out?
Not without further planning permission, as that would make it a separate dwelling.
Do you build garden annexes in Magherafelt?
Yes. We build garden annexes across Magherafelt, including postcodes BT45. Every project starts with a free home visit.
Do I need planning permission for a garden annexe in Magherafelt?
In Northern Ireland an annexe with living accommodation needs planning permission and building control approval.
How much does a garden annexe cost in Magherafelt?
In Magherafelt, 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.
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.
