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 Runcorn?
In Runcorn, a garden annexe typically costs £1,700–£2,650 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 35 m² project that is roughly £59,500–£93,000. Prices across the North West are typically 6% below the UK average for this kind of work, which is reflected in the range for Runcorn. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (24 m²) | £41,000–£63,500 |
| Typical project (35 m²) | £59,500–£93,000 |
| Larger project (49 m²) | £83,500–£130,000 |
| Rate per m² | £1,700–£2,650 |
What moves the price most:
- Kitchen and bathroom
- Drainage connection distance
- Size and layout
- 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 Runcorn?
Here is how the rules work for a garden annexe 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.
If the answer is not clear-cut, we can apply for formal confirmation before you commit to the build.
What we handle
Handled as part of most garden annexes:
- Electrics and heating
- Foundations and drainage connections
- Glazed doors and windows
- Kitchenette and shower room
- 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 Runcorn
The North West has many brick terraces and inter-war semis, where kitchen extensions and dormer loft conversions add space without moving.
Our Runcorn coverage includes postcode districts WA7, and we also work in nearby places such as Widnes, Halewood and Speke.
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 Runcorn
Who approves a garden annexe in Runcorn?
Planning matters in Runcorn go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. 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.
How much does a garden annexe cost in Runcorn?
In Runcorn, a garden annexe typically costs £1,700–£2,650 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 35 m² project comes to roughly £59,500–£93,000. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Can an annexe be rented out?
Not without further planning permission, as that would make it a separate dwelling.
How long does it take?
Typically 10 to 16 weeks on site.
