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 South Glamorgan?
In South Glamorgan, a garden annexe typically costs £1,650–£2,600 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 35 m² project that is roughly £58,000–£91,000. Prices across Wales are typically 8% below the UK average for this kind of work, which is reflected in the range for South Glamorgan. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (24 m²) | £39,500–£62,500 |
| Typical project (35 m²) | £58,000–£91,000 |
| Larger project (49 m²) | £81,000–£127,500 |
| Rate per m² | £1,650–£2,600 |
Your quote will depend mainly on:
- Kitchen and bathroom
- Access for materials
- Heating type
- Drainage connection distance
A guide range is only a starting point: the guide price tool gives an instant figure for your size, and a free survey turns it into a fixed quote.
Do you need planning permission for a garden annexe in South Glamorgan?
The approval route for South Glamorgan is set by planning law in Wales. In Wales an annexe with sleeping accommodation usually needs planning permission; outbuildings under permitted development must be incidental to the house.
Building regulations in Wales are set by the Welsh Government. Approval comes from the council’s building control service or a registered building control approver, with inspections during the work and a completion certificate at the end.
We check this for your address before design work starts, so there are no surprises later.
What we handle
Handled as part of most garden annexes:
- Building control sign-off
- Electrics and heating
- Kitchenette and shower room
- Planning drawings and application
- External cladding or brickwork
- Glazed doors and windows
How long does it take?
Allow 10 to 16 weeks on site. Allow time beforehand for drawings and approvals, usually 3 to 4 months.
Building in South Glamorgan
Terraced houses in Welsh towns often have narrow plots, which suits rear and side return extensions and rear dormers.
Towns we cover in South Glamorgan include Cardiff, Barry and Penarth.
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 South Glamorgan
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.
Do I need planning permission for a garden annexe in South Glamorgan?
In Wales an annexe with sleeping accommodation usually needs planning permission; outbuildings under permitted development must be incidental to the house.
How much does a garden annexe cost in South Glamorgan?
In South Glamorgan, a garden annexe typically costs £1,650–£2,600 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 35 m² project comes to roughly £58,000–£91,000. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Can it be accessible?
Yes. Level access, wider doors and a wet room can be designed in.
How long does a garden annexe take in South Glamorgan?
Typically 10 to 16 weeks on site. Design and approvals beforehand usually take 3 to 4 months.
