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 Northolt?
In Northolt, a garden annexe typically costs £2,350–£3,650 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 35 m² project that is roughly £82,000–£128,000. Prices across London are typically 30% above the UK average for this kind of work, which is reflected in the range for Northolt. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (24 m²) | £56,500–£87,500 |
| Typical project (35 m²) | £82,000–£128,000 |
| Larger project (49 m²) | £115,000–£179,000 |
| Rate per m² | £2,350–£3,650 |
The biggest cost drivers are:
- Drainage connection distance
- Heating type
- Access for materials
- Kitchen and bathroom
Your exact price depends on the survey and drawings. The guide price tool gives a quick range in the meantime.
Do you need planning permission for a garden annexe in Northolt?
Before anything is built in Northolt, we confirm which approvals apply 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.
Our first visit includes a check of your planning history, so you know the route before paying for drawings.
What we handle
The work we manage on a garden annexe:
- Kitchenette and shower room
- External cladding or brickwork
- Insulated walls and roof
- Foundations and drainage connections
- Building control sign-off
- Planning drawings and application
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 Northolt
Victorian and Edwardian terraces dominate many London streets, which is why side return, wraparound and mansard projects are so common here.
Our Northolt coverage includes postcode districts UB5, and we also work in nearby places such as Greenford, Harrow and Southall.
How it works
- 01
Visit and measured survey
A free visit to understand the project, check access and take measurements.
- 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 Northolt
Do you build garden annexes in Northolt?
Yes. We build garden annexes across Northolt, including postcodes UB5. Every project starts with a free home visit.
Does it need building regulations?
Yes, as it contains sleeping accommodation and services.
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.
How much does a garden annexe cost in Northolt?
In Northolt, a garden annexe typically costs £2,350–£3,650 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 35 m² project comes to roughly £82,000–£128,000. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
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.
