Covering St Albans
Our coverage around St Albans (AL1, AL3) also includes Harpenden, Hatfield and Hemel Hempstead.
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 is included in a garden annexe in St Albans?
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
- Brick, block or timber-frame structure
- Heating, hot water and electrics
How much does a garden annexe cost in St Albans?
Use these ranges to budget for garden annexes; the survey turns them into a fixed price for the agreed specification.
| 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 |
Do you need permission for a garden annexe in St Albans?
English projects need planning clearance from the local council, building regulations sign-off from building control, and party wall notices where the work is on or near a shared boundary. We prepare and manage all three.
A self-contained annexe used for sleeping and living normally needs planning permission in England. Permitted development for outbuildings does not cover living accommodation.
What should St Albans homeowners check first?
- The annexe normally has to remain part of the main household, not let as a separate home.
- Drainage may need a pump if the garden falls away from the sewer.
How does the project run?
- Send us the details. Give us a postcode, a rough idea of size and some photos, by phone, form or the guide price tool.
- Free site visit. We measure up, look at access, drains and the structure, and talk through options and budget.
- Price and paperwork. The design is priced line by line, and we submit the planning and building control applications.
- We build it. Work follows an agreed programme, with inspections at each stage and a final sign-off.
What people ask before starting
How much does a garden annexe cost?
Around £2,400 to £3,900 per square metre including VAT, depending on finish and services.
How long does an annexe take to build?
About 14 to 24 weeks on site after approvals.
How do I get a price for garden annexes in St Albans?
Use the guide price tool for a ballpark figure, then book a visit for a fixed written price for the agreed specification.
Also covering
- Garden annexes in Harpenden
- Garden annexes in Hatfield
- Garden annexes in Hemel Hempstead
- Garden annexes in Welwyn Garden City
Learn more about garden annexes, or see every project we cover in St Albans.

