10 Things To Consider Before Building A Granny Annexe.

There’s a strong chance that you have already weighed up the potential for building a granny annexe over a loft conversion or house extension. If you haven’t, there are many factors to consider such as budget, space, accessibility and what you’ll be allowed under PD rights or planning permissions.

Building a granny annexe is a great way providing extra accommodation within your property; offering privacy and independence in a way that a house extension cannot. Plus, there are long term advantages - a good annexe adds 20-30% to the value of your house, an extension adds around only 10-20%.

Before building a granny annexe, there are several important considerations to keep in mind.

Local Regulations

Check local planning policies, permitted development rights, and be aware of the building regulations to ensure you can legally build and use a granny annexe on your property. Obtain any necessary permits and/or permissions before starting a build.

Permitted Use

Determine if there are any restrictions on how the annexe can be used (e.g., only for family members, short-term rentals).

Budget

Determine your budget for construction, including all associated costs such as utilities, landscaping, and furnishings. Think about the cost-to-difficulty between building it yourself and choosing us to build it for you.

Purpose and Design

Define the purpose of the annexe (e.g., housing for an aging relative, rental income, home for young adults), and design it accordingly to meet the needs of the occupants. Also consider how often it’ll be used, permanent use will benefit from better materials and insulation.

Size and Layout

Plan the size and layout of the annexe based on the number of occupants, their comfort, and privacy requirements. Think about what rooms they’ll need,

Utilities and Services

Consider how utilities such as water, electricity, gas, and sewage will be connected to the annexe. Ensure it has its own heating, cooling, and plumbing systems.

Accessibility

If accommodating elderly relatives, ensure the annexe is wheelchair-accessible and includes safety features like grab bars and non-slip flooring.

Privacy and Boundaries

Establish boundaries and privacy considerations between the main house and the annexe to maintain a comfortable living situation for all.

Insurance

Review your homeowner's insurance policy to understand how the annexe affects coverage and consider additional coverage if necessary.

Long-Term Planning

Think about how the annexe will serve your needs in the long term, considering potential changes in family dynamics and living arrangements.

Consulting with us about your project enables you to gain a better understanding about how it works, the options available to you and how you go about starting a project.