Granny Annexe | 7 Key Questions

Granny Annexe | 7 Key Questions

When it comes to getting older, or your parents getting older , the time may come when you need to start considering the care options that are available. Whether it is for you or your elderly parent/ relatives, a granny annexe can offer a cost-effective solution that is definitely worth exploring. We understand that this is a difficult time for most people, and you will probably agree that it can become overwhelming, and confusing.

Here at Swift we take pride in building high-quality, bespoke homes that will allow you or an elderly family member to continue living independently for as long as possible. With the rising costs of elderly care, it is important to research all your potential options.  Although the popularity in granny annexes have risen significantly in recent years, there are still many people who are not aware that an annexe in the garden can be a great solution, offering the perfect balance between care and independence, along with many other benefits.

In this blog we will look at 7 key questions to ask when considering investing in a granny annexe.

What is a granny annexe?

A Granny Annexe is a fully self-contained dwelling, that can be built separately to the main building/house or interconnecting within the property.

Typically, an annexe is used to allow a beloved aging parent (or parents) a home, close to their family for convenience and security.

An annexe can also provide freedom to the older teenager or early twenty-something, who needs their space and privacy, but may be struggling to get their first step on the property ladder.

The underlying beauty of a granny annexe is the ultimate separation, tranquillity and privacy that is created, whilst retaining that strong link to the heart of the main home.

Do I need planning permission for an annexe?

If your annexe is to be permanently lived in by someone, full planning permission is required.  At Swift we have trusted experts who can handle all of this for you, as part of our annexe service.

You may be aware of companies advertising that an annexe does not need planning permission.  In this instance they will be referring to building your new home under The Caravan Act.

After much research through lawyers and planning consultants Swift would not recommend to any of our clients that The Caravan Act is an alternative to gaining full planning permission.  You can read more about our decision and advice HERE.

Swift Unlimited annexes are permanent buildings.  They are certified for full building regulations, just the same as any other residential home.

In our professional opinion we believe that building a permanent, house-quality annexe under The Caravan Act is essentially manipulating a ‘loophole’ in the law.  At Swift, your peace of mind is too important to us to take such a big risk.

Can my annexe be tailor-made to suite my space and needs?

There are many annexe companies to choose from, but if you prefer flexibility on the shape, size, and design of your new home, be sure to find out if a company really offers this.  You may find that what you are not really being offered is actually limited to variations on model A, B, C etc, which may result in something of a compromise.

With Swift Unlimited we offer a completely bespoke product.  Your building can be designed to fit the space you have available and to suit your specific needs.

How much will my annexe cost?

Annexe prices can vary considerably from company to company, typically reflecting the variation in quality of the finished building you will have.  At Swift our annexes are house-quality buildings that meet full building regulations and are built to last.  With our SIP building systems all our annexes and garden rooms are highly insulated meaning toasty warm during the winter months and cool and comfortable during the summer months.  In our opinion, anything less than this is not suitable – particularly for an elderly parent.

Swift pricings range from around £69,000 to over £100,000. The most important considerations and those that would have a dramatic effect on costs, would be:

• The location
• The intricacy of the design
• The size of the annexe.

Take a look at our ANNEXE PRICES PAGE showing some typical examples of layouts that may be the ideal starting point for your own annexe and some price indications to help you gain an initial concept of the likely total cost.

Will an annexe add value to my home?

Yes! By adding high quality living space to any home will add value.  Our friends at Checkatrade agree:

“It’s estimated that you could add up to 20-30% to the value of your property. That’s some serious value you could add to your home”

Read more in our blog HERE.

How long will it take to build my annexe?

Just like with annexe pricing, there are several factors to consider such including the size, location and intricacy of your design.

Typically a Swift annexe would take 4-6 weeks.  Planning permission can take a minimum of 8 weeks.  Once permission is granted, lead times for our buildings are usually 8-12 weeks, though this is constantly changing because of new orders and changing supply conditions.

With over 16 years’ industry experience we have brought the freedom of independence to individuals nationwide with our  bespoke annexes, providing  well insulated, house-quality  homes at the bottom of the garden. 

We appreciate that the process of building a garden room or annexe can seem overwhelming. Don’t worry we are here to help you every step of the way.

You can contact us to discuss any part of your project. We would love to hear from you and are more than happy to help.

Call us on 01625 875588