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 Yorkshire?
In South Yorkshire, 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. Building costs in Yorkshire and the Humber run about 7% below the UK average, and the figures for South Yorkshire are adjusted to reflect that. 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:
- Cladding and finishes
- Kitchen and bathroom
- Access for materials
- 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 South Yorkshire?
Approvals for a garden annexe in South Yorkshire follow the rules for 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
From survey to sign-off, the job normally involves:
- Planning drawings and application
- Foundations and drainage connections
- External cladding or brickwork
- Glazed doors and windows
- Building control sign-off
- Insulated walls and roof
How long does it take?
Expect 10 to 16 weeks on site. Allow time beforehand for drawings and approvals, usually 3 to 4 months.
Building in South Yorkshire
In Yorkshire, through-terraces and back-to-backs have particular constraints, while semis and detached houses suit larger extensions.
Towns we cover in South Yorkshire include Sheffield, Rotherham, Doncaster, Barnsley, Bentley and Chapeltown.
How it works
- 01
Survey and brief
We visit, discuss your ideas and budget, and survey the property or site at no cost.
- 02
Drawings and written quote
We prepare the design and give you a written, itemised quote with inclusions and exclusions.
- 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 Yorkshire
Who approves a garden annexe in South Yorkshire?
Planning matters in South Yorkshire go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. We prepare and submit the applications for you.
How long does it take?
Typically 10 to 16 weeks on site.
How much does a garden annexe cost in South Yorkshire?
In South Yorkshire, 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.
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.
