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 Shoreham-by-Sea?
In Shoreham-by-Sea, a garden annexe typically costs £2,000–£3,150 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 35 m² project that is roughly £70,000–£110,000. We start from a UK-wide guide and adjust it for the South East, where labour and materials are typically about 12% above average. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (24 m²) | £48,000–£75,500 |
| Typical project (35 m²) | £70,000–£110,000 |
| Larger project (49 m²) | £98,000–£154,500 |
| Rate per m² | £2,000–£3,150 |
The main things that change the cost:
- Drainage connection distance
- Heating type
- Cladding and finishes
- Size and layout
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 Shoreham-by-Sea?
Whether you need planning permission depends on your house and its location 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.
At the survey we check your house’s planning history and any restrictions, and tell you which route applies.
What we handle
The work we manage on a garden annexe:
- Foundations and drainage connections
- Electrics and heating
- Kitchenette and shower room
- Planning drawings and application
- External cladding or brickwork
- Insulated walls and roof
How long does it take?
Expect 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 Shoreham-by-Sea
The South East has a broad mix of housing, from Victorian terraces in the towns to post-war semis and newer estates, so extension types vary street by street.
From BN43 outwards, we take on projects throughout Shoreham-by-Sea and the surrounding parts of West Sussex.
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 Shoreham-by-Sea
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.
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.
Does it need building regulations?
Yes, as it contains sleeping accommodation and services.
How much does a garden annexe cost in Shoreham-by-Sea?
In Shoreham-by-Sea, a garden annexe typically costs £2,000–£3,150 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 35 m² project comes to roughly £70,000–£110,000. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Do you build garden annexes in Shoreham-by-Sea?
Yes. We build garden annexes across Shoreham-by-Sea, including postcodes BN43. Every project starts with a free home visit.
