Annexe extensions for homes in Dorset
Dorset homeowners can use us for the whole annexe extension project: survey, design, planning or permitted development checks, building regulations and the build itself.
- Guide priceFrom £56,000 inc VAT
- PlanningUsually a householder application
- Towns covered9
- Site visitFree, no obligation
Towns in Dorset
Extensions in and around Dorset
Towns we cover in Dorset include Bournemouth, Poole, Weymouth, Christchurch, Dorchester, Wimborne Minster, Bridport, Ferndown. South West homes range from terraced streets in the cities to stone cottages and bungalows in the countryside, and conservation areas are common in historic centres.
Planning rules that apply in Dorset
In England an annexe that stays part of the household and connects to the house is assessed as an extension, but its size usually takes it beyond permitted development, so a householder application describing the ancillary use is the normal route.
Homes in conservation areas, national parks, National Landscapes (formerly AONBs), the Broads and World Heritage Sites have tighter rules, so we always check the property's status and planning history before design starts.
Building regulations approval is separate from planning. In England you can use the council's building control team or a registered building control approver; a full plans application gets the drawings checked before work starts, and the inspector signs the work off with a completion certificate.
If the work involves a shared wall, building on the boundary, or digging foundations within 3 m (sometimes 6 m) of a neighbour's building, the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 applies and notice must be served before work starts: two months for work to a party wall, one month for new walls on the boundary and for excavations.
Applications are decided by the local planning authority (your district, borough or unitary council).
When an annexe extension makes sense
- Homes with a large side or rear garden
- Relatives who need support close by
- Multi-generational families
Accessibility is cheaper to design in than to retrofit. Level access, a 900 mm door width, a level-access shower and space to turn a wheelchair can all be planned into the footprint for little extra cost.
How much does an annexe extension cost in Dorset?
Prices below are for Dorset, using the South West England factor of ×1.02. They are guide ranges including VAT for the build only, not a quote.
Typical rates in Dorset: £2,040 to £3,880 per m² including VAT, depending on specification.
| Size | Essential | Standard | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio annexe 25 m² | £56,000 – £70,500 | £61,000 – £76,500 | £76,500 – £97,000 |
| One-bedroom annexe 35 m² | £71,000 – £89,500 | £85,500 – £107,500 | £107,000 – £136,000 |
| Larger annexe 45 m² | £91,500 – £115,000 | £110,000 – £138,000 | £137,500 – £174,500 |
For a figure based on your own dimensions, use our guide-price tool.
How the project works
Site visits are free and there is no obligation. Where drawings are needed, the design stage is priced in writing before it starts.
Free site visit
A designer visits, takes measurements and photos, and discusses layouts, budget and timing with you.
Design and approvals
Drawings are prepared and agreed with you, then submitted for the right planning route and building regulations approval.
Fixed written price
With the design and specification agreed, you get a fixed written price and a start date.
Build and sign-off
Work is carried out to the agreed programme, inspected by building control and signed off at the end.
Annexe extension questions answered
Will my neighbours in Dorset be involved?
If a planning application or prior approval is needed, the council notifies neighbours. If the work is on or near a shared boundary, party wall notices may also be needed.
Do I need building regulations approval in Dorset?
Yes. Almost every extension needs it, whatever the planning route. We prepare the drawings and book the inspections.
Can I see a price before committing to anything?
Yes. The guide prices on this page are adjusted for Dorset, and the guide-price tool gives a range for your own size. After the survey you get a written price before anything is agreed.
Can the annexe have its own front door?
Yes, many do, but it should still connect to the main house to stay clearly part of it.
How much does an annexe extension cost?
Our guide range is about £2,040 to £3,880 per m² including VAT. A one-bedroom annexe of about 35 m² is typically £85,500 to £107,500 at standard spec in Dorset.
Book a free site visit in Dorset
We will measure up, check the planning position and give you honest guide figures.
- Free, no-obligation site visit
- Planning route checked before you spend on drawings
- Written price once the design is agreed
- Building control sign-off at the end
Prefer to talk? Call 0800 088 6341 or .
Book a free site visit
Tell us a little about the project and we will arrange a time.