The cost breakdown of planning, building, and maintaining a garden annexe

Garden annexes are an increasingly popular solution for those looking to create extra living space. In this guide, we’ll break down the key expenses involved in planning, building, and maintaining a garden annexe, ensuring you have a clear picture of what to expect.

Planning Costs

Before construction begins, planning and preparation are essential steps that come with their own expenses. Some key costs to consider include:

• In depth consultation: Totally free! Our dedication to understanding you and your needs comes before any paid contract, as our priority is getting it right for you. We’ll discuss your vision, needs, current circumstances and possible options at no charge.
• Planning Permission & Applications: Do I need permission to build an annexe? The simple answer is yes, and we handle all the planning side as part of our service with help from our expert partners, NAPC. The average annexe planning permission fee is £2,200. In the unlikely event that planning permission is not granted, we offer a money-back guarantee, meaning you’ll be refunded every penny spent so far. With a 94% success rate, it is more likely you’ll obtain the right planning permissions with no issues.
• Site Survey & Assessments: Professional site surveys assess ground conditions, drainage, and accessibility. This is completed comprehensively and free of charge, we just want to make sure the details are all covered to best execute a bespoke design to suit all needs.
• Architectural & Design Fees: Our design service including CGI drawings and floor plans is free of charge, so you can see your dream annexe before you commit.

Construction Costs

Once planning is complete, the bulk of your investment will go into the actual build. The cost of constructing a garden annexe varies depending on size, design, and materials used. Here are the primary expenses:

• Annexe: Our garden annexe pricing starts at £95,750, providing a high-quality structure that is built to last.
• Customisation & upgrades: Additional features such as premium materials, extra insulation, and upgraded fixtures may increase costs.

The below essential elements are included in the price of your annexe as part of our full turnkey service:

• Site preparation & foundations: Costs vary based on the ground conditions, with factors like uneven terrain or poor soil adding to foundation expenses.
• Labour & installation fees: Professional installation ensures your annexe is built to high standards, with experienced tradespeople handling electrics, plumbing, and joinery.
• Connections & infrastructure: Bringing electricity, water, and drainage to the annexe may require trenching, cabling, and additional plumbing work.

Special Offer: For a limited time, we are offering an additional 10% discount, making it even more accesible to invest in your garden annexe.

Long-term savings with solar panel packages

Installing solar panels as part of your garden annexe package can save you money on electricity bills over the years. Solar energy is a sustainable solution that harnesses the power of the sun to generate electricity for your annexe and even spilling savings over to your main home. With energy prices continuing to rise, having solar panels installed can significantly reduce your dependency on grid electricity, leading to long-term savings. Depending on the size and energy usage of your annexe, solar panels can cover a significant portion of your electricity needs, lowering monthly bills. Over time, the savings on electricity can more than offset the initial investment in solar panels, making them a financially sound choice in the long run.

Increased property value & attractive to buyers

Properties with solar energy systems increase in property value and are in high demand, particularly for buyers or renters looking to reduce their energy consumption and spend. By incorporating solar panels on your garden annexe, your home becomes a more attractive option in the property market, making it easier to sell in the future. With growing awareness of sustainability and desire to save on rising energy costs, buyers may be more likely to choose an eco-conscious property with energy-efficient features like solar panels.

Low Maintenance and durability

Solar panels require very little maintenance once installed. With occasional cleaning to remove debris or dirt and regular checks to ensure they are functioning correctly, solar systems are highly durable and designed to last for decades. This longevity makes them an excellent long-term investment for your garden annexe, ensuring that you won’t need to replace or upgrade your energy system frequently. The minimal upkeep also reduces long-term maintenance costs, making solar panels a hassle-free option for homeowners looking to reduce their future expenses.

Ongoing Maintenance Costs

Once your garden annexe is complete, it’s important to budget for long-term maintenance to keep it in excellent condition. Key areas of ongoing costs include:

• General repairs & upkeep: Regular inspections and minor repairs help prevent larger issues down the line. The majority of this maintenance includes regular, low-cost light cleaning across interior and exterior. Other costs are dependent on issue, annexe type, size and expertise needed. iHus are proud to offer outstanding aftercare and advice, with a 6 month check in to see how you’re getting on and open contact policy to give guidance for any issues arising later down the line.
• Utility bills: While typically lower than a full-sized home, you should budget for electricity and water usage that are connected to the main house. Costs are dependent on utility provider rates and usage.
• Grounds maintenance: Keeping the surrounding area tidy, including pathways and landscaping, adds to the overall upkeep. Costs are dependent on landscaper, garden size and choice of work.

Final thoughts: Is a garden annexe worth the investment?

While the costs of planning, building, and maintaining a garden annexe require careful budgeting, the benefits often outweigh the expenses. If you’re looking for additional living space for a loved one, a well-built garden annexe can provide long-term value and even increase the overall worth of your property.

With our money-back guarantee in case planning permission is denied and a 10% discount currently available, now is the perfect time to invest in your garden annexe.

If you’re ready to get started or have any questions, contact us today to discuss your project in detail.