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 Stirling and Falkirk?
In Stirling and Falkirk, 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 Stirling and Falkirk 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 |
The main things that change the cost:
- Drainage connection distance
- Access for materials
- Heating type
- Size and layout
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 Stirling and Falkirk?
Here is how the rules work for a garden annexe in 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
On a typical garden annexe we handle:
- Glazed doors and windows
- External cladding or brickwork
- Foundations and drainage connections
- Planning drawings and application
- Building control sign-off
- Kitchenette and shower room
How long does it take?
Expect 10 to 16 weeks on site. Before that, surveys, drawings and approvals usually take 3 to 4 months, longer if the council asks for changes.
Building in Stirling and Falkirk
In Scotland, bungalows and one-and-a-half-storey homes are common, so dormer conversions are a popular way to add bedrooms.
Towns we cover in Stirling and Falkirk include Stirling, Falkirk, Alloa and Grangemouth.
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
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 Stirling and Falkirk
Can it be accessible?
Yes. Level access, wider doors and a wet room can be designed in.
How much does a garden annexe cost in Stirling and Falkirk?
In Stirling and Falkirk, 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.
Can an annexe be rented out?
Not without further planning permission, as that would make it a separate dwelling.
Does it need building regulations?
Yes, as it contains sleeping accommodation and services.
How long does a garden annexe take in Stirling and Falkirk?
Typically 10 to 16 weeks on site. Design and approvals beforehand usually take 3 to 4 months.
Do I need planning permission for a garden annexe in Stirling and Falkirk?
In Scotland an annexe with living accommodation needs planning permission and a building warrant.
