Covering Lowestoft
Our coverage around Lowestoft (NR32) also includes Great Yarmouth (9 miles to the north) and Norwich.
Homes in the East of England
Housing in the East of England ranges from post-war estates and modern developments to timber-framed and period homes in historic towns, so permitted development checks and conservation controls both feature regularly.
What does a garden annexe involve?
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
- Heating, hot water and electrics
- Accessible design options for older relatives
What will a garden annexe cost?
Indicative costs for garden annexes. London and the South East usually sit towards the top of each range.
| 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 |
How is a garden annexe approved in Lowestoft?
In England we deal with the council’s planning team for permission or a lawful development certificate, with building control (the council or a registered building control approver) for inspections, and with neighbours under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 where it applies.
A self-contained annexe used for sleeping and living normally needs planning permission in England.
What should I think about before starting?
- The annexe normally has to remain part of the main household, not let as a separate home.
- Council tax treatment depends on who lives there; check with your council.
From first call to completion
- Start with a conversation. A short call or the online form is enough for us to understand what you want to build.
- 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.
- We build it. Work follows an agreed programme, with inspections at each stage and a final sign-off.
Your questions answered
Can I rent the annexe out?
Usually not without a separate planning permission, because councils normally require it to stay part of the main house.
Can you make it wheelchair accessible?
Yes. Level access, wider doors and a level-access shower can be designed in from the start.
Who deals with the council for a project in Lowestoft?
We do. We prepare the drawings, submit planning or permitted development paperwork if needed, and arrange building control inspections.
Garden annexes in nearby towns
- Garden annexes in Great Yarmouth
- Garden annexes in Norwich
- Garden annexes in Diss
- Garden annexes in North Walsham
Learn more about garden annexes, or see every project we cover in Lowestoft.

