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 Newtownards?
In Newtownards, 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 Newtownards 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 |
The main things that change the cost:
- Access for materials
- Kitchen and bathroom
- Heating type
- Cladding and finishes
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 Newtownards?
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.
At the survey we check your house’s planning history and any restrictions, and tell you which route applies.
What we handle
On a typical garden annexe we handle:
- Insulated walls and roof
- Glazed doors and windows
- Foundations and drainage connections
- External cladding or brickwork
- Building control sign-off
- Kitchenette and shower room
How long does it take?
Build time is typically 10 to 16 weeks on site. Allow time beforehand for drawings and approvals, usually 3 to 4 months.
Building in Newtownards
Across Northern Ireland, bungalows and chalet bungalows are common, so loft conversions and rear extensions are popular projects.
Our Newtownards coverage includes postcode districts BT22 and BT23, and we also work in nearby places such as Bangor, Belfast and Carrickfergus.
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 in place
We handle planning, building control and neighbour notices before work starts.
- 04
Construction and completion
We build, put right any snags and hand over the building control certificate.
Questions about garden annexes in Newtownards
Can it be accessible?
Yes. Level access, wider doors and a wet room can be designed in.
Will council tax apply?
Annexes can be banded separately, though discounts or exemptions apply in some cases when occupied by family. Check with your council.
Who approves a garden annexe in Newtownards?
Planning matters in Newtownards go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. We prepare and submit the applications for you.
How much does a garden annexe cost in Newtownards?
In Newtownards, 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 I need planning permission for a garden annexe in Newtownards?
In Northern Ireland an annexe with living accommodation needs planning permission and building control approval.
Can an annexe be rented out?
Not without further planning permission, as that would make it a separate dwelling.