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 Paisley?
In Paisley, a garden annexe typically costs £1,750–£2,700 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 35 m² project that is roughly £61,000–£94,500. Prices in Scotland sit near the national average for this kind of work, and the range for Paisley reflects that. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (24 m²) | £42,000–£65,000 |
| Typical project (35 m²) | £61,000–£94,500 |
| Larger project (49 m²) | £86,000–£132,500 |
| Rate per m² | £1,750–£2,700 |
Your quote will depend mainly on:
- Size and layout
- Kitchen and bathroom
- Drainage connection distance
- Cladding and finishes
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 Paisley?
Approvals for a garden annexe in Paisley follow the rules for Scotland. In Scotland an annexe with living accommodation needs planning permission and a building warrant.
In Scotland a building warrant is needed before work starts on most extensions, loft conversions and conversions. It is issued by the council’s building standards service. When the work is finished, a completion certificate is submitted and accepted by the council after inspection.
At the survey we check your house’s planning history and any restrictions, and tell you which route applies.
What we handle
Handled as part of most garden annexes:
- Insulated walls and roof
- Planning drawings and application
- Glazed doors and windows
- External cladding or brickwork
- Kitchenette and shower room
- Electrics and heating
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 Paisley
In Scotland, bungalows and one-and-a-half-storey homes are common, so dormer conversions are a popular way to add bedrooms.
If your home is in Paisley or close by in Barrhead, Renfrew and Johnstone, a free home visit is the first step.
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
Permissions sorted
Applications, building control and neighbour arrangements, all before the start date.
- 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 Paisley
Does it need building regulations?
Yes, as it contains sleeping accommodation and services.
How much does a garden annexe cost in Paisley?
In Paisley, a garden annexe typically costs £1,750–£2,700 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 35 m² project comes to roughly £61,000–£94,500. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
How long does it take?
Typically 10 to 16 weeks on site.
Do I need planning permission for a garden annexe in Paisley?
In Scotland an annexe with living accommodation needs planning permission and a building warrant.
Who approves a garden annexe in Paisley?
Planning matters in Paisley go to the council covering your address, and the work needs a building warrant. We prepare and submit the applications for you.
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.
