Covering Dorchester
Alongside Dorchester, we also cover Weymouth (7 miles to the south), Bridport and Yeovil.
Homes in the South West
The South West mixes stone and render cottages, Victorian terraces in the larger towns and modern estates, and many historic centres are conservation areas where materials and roof shapes are closely controlled.
What is included in a garden annexe in Dorchester?
A garden annexe is a separate single-storey building in the grounds of a house with its own bedroom, bathroom and kitchenette, used by family members as part of the main household. Unlike a garden office, an annexe that people sleep in normally needs planning permission and full building regulations approval.
- Foundations and drainage connections
- Kitchenette and shower room
- Accessible design options for older relatives
What is the guide price for a garden annexe in Dorchester?
Guide prices for garden annexes, including VAT where it applies. Your fixed price is confirmed in writing after the survey.
| Garden annexes | Guide price incl. VAT |
|---|---|
| Standard specification | £2,400 to £2,900 per m² |
| Good specification | £2,900 to £3,400 per m² |
| High specification | £3,400 to £3,900 per m² |
Planning and building rules in Dorchester
Projects in England go through two separate checks. Planning (or confirmation that the work is permitted development) comes from the district, borough or unitary council, and building regulations approval comes from the council’s building control team or a registered building control approver. Where work touches a shared wall or digs near a neighbour’s foundations, the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 applies.
A self-contained annexe used for sleeping and living normally needs planning permission in England.
What can change the price or programme?
- Drainage may need a pump if the garden falls away from the sewer.
- Council tax treatment depends on who lives there; check with your council.
How does the project run?
- Tell us about the project. Call, use the guide price tool or send the form with a few photos and a postcode.
- Free site visit. We measure up, look at access, drains and the structure, and talk through options and budget.
- Drawings, approvals, written quote. We prepare the design, apply for the approvals it needs, and give you a fixed price in writing.
- Construction and completion. One site lead co-ordinates every trade through to the building control certificate.
Garden annexes: common questions
Do I need planning permission for a garden annexe?
Usually yes, because people will sleep in it. Outbuilding permitted development does not cover living accommodation.
How much does a garden annexe cost?
Around £2,400 to £3,900 per square metre including VAT, depending on finish and services.
Can you visit a house in Dorchester to quote?
Yes. After a short call we arrange a site visit to measure up and agree what the design needs to do, then send a written price.
Garden annexes near Dorchester
Learn more about garden annexes, or see every project we cover in Dorchester.