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 Strabane?
In Strabane, a garden annexe typically costs £1,550–£2,400 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 35 m² project that is roughly £54,000–£84,000. Prices across Northern Ireland are typically 14% below the UK average for this kind of work, which is reflected in the range for Strabane. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (24 m²) | £37,000–£57,500 |
| Typical project (35 m²) | £54,000–£84,000 |
| Larger project (49 m²) | £76,000–£117,500 |
| Rate per m² | £1,550–£2,400 |
Your quote will depend mainly on:
- Size and layout
- Heating type
- Kitchen and bathroom
- Drainage connection distance
Your exact price depends on the survey and drawings. The guide price tool gives a quick range in the meantime.
Do you need planning permission for a garden annexe in Strabane?
The approval route for Strabane is set by planning law in Northern Ireland. In Northern Ireland an annexe with living accommodation needs planning permission and building control approval.
In Northern Ireland building control approval comes from the council, usually through a full plans application or a building notice, with inspections during the work and a completion certificate at the end.
Our first visit includes a check of your planning history, so you know the route before paying for drawings.
What we handle
On a typical garden annexe we handle:
- Planning drawings and application
- External cladding or brickwork
- Glazed doors and windows
- Foundations and drainage connections
- Insulated walls and roof
- Building control sign-off
How long does it take?
Build time is typically 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 Strabane
Across Northern Ireland, bungalows and chalet bungalows are common, so loft conversions and rear extensions are popular projects.
Our Strabane coverage includes postcode districts BT82, and we also work in nearby places such as Derry, Omagh and Limavady.
How it works
- 01
Free visit
We look at the property, talk through what you want and measure up. There is no charge and no obligation.
- 02
Design and pricing
Design options, then a fixed quote based on the chosen drawings and specification.
- 03
Approvals
Planning or permitted development confirmation, building regulations and any party wall matters.
- 04
Build and sign-off
We run the build to a written programme and hand over the completion certificate.
Questions about garden annexes in Strabane
Do you build garden annexes in Strabane?
Yes. We build garden annexes across Strabane, including postcodes BT82. Every project starts with a free home visit.
Can an annexe be rented out?
Not without further planning permission, as that would make it a separate dwelling.
How much does a garden annexe cost in Strabane?
In Strabane, a garden annexe typically costs £1,550–£2,400 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 35 m² project comes to roughly £54,000–£84,000. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Do I need planning permission for a garden annexe in Strabane?
In Northern Ireland an annexe with living accommodation needs planning permission and building control approval.
How long does it take?
Typically 10 to 16 weeks on site.
Does it need building regulations?
Yes, as it contains sleeping accommodation and services.
