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 York?
In York, 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. That range is adjusted for Yorkshire and the Humber, where domestic building work typically costs around 7% below the national average. 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 |
The main things that change the cost:
- Cladding and finishes
- Kitchen and bathroom
- Size and layout
- Access for materials
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 York?
Approvals for a garden annexe in York 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
Handled as part of most garden annexes:
- Foundations and drainage connections
- External cladding or brickwork
- Electrics and heating
- Planning drawings and application
- Kitchenette and shower room
- 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 York
In Yorkshire, through-terraces and back-to-backs have particular constraints, while semis and detached houses suit larger extensions.
Our York coverage includes postcode districts YO1, YO10, YO24 and YO31, and we also work in nearby places such as Selby, Harrogate and Goole.
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 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 York
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 York?
In York, 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.
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.
Do you build garden annexes in York?
Yes. We build garden annexes across York, including postcodes YO1, YO10, YO24 and YO31. Every project starts with a free home visit.
How long does it take?
Typically 10 to 16 weeks on site.