Why a Garden Annexe?
A garden annexe gives an elderly parent their own home, right next to yours. It's cheaper than a care home, better for their independence, and means the family stays together. Here's why more families are choosing this option.
What is a Granny Annexe?
A granny annexe is a self-contained home built in your garden. It typically has one or two bedrooms, a living area, a kitchen, and a bathroom. Most are built for elderly parents or grandparents who want to stay independent but live close to family.
They can also work well for adult children saving for their own place, or as guest accommodation. They're becoming more common across the UK because the costs stack up well against care homes and they add value to your property.
The Practical Benefits
Family Stays Together
Grandchildren pop in after school. Meals get shared. There's company when you want it and privacy when you don't.
Independence with Nearby Support
Your parent has their own front door and their own space, but family is right there if they need anything.
Much Cheaper Than Care Homes
An annexe costs around £110,000 to build. Ten years of care home fees costs over £670,000. The annexe also adds value to your property.
Mutual Support
Grandparents help with childcare and school runs. Parents help with shopping and appointments. It works both ways.
Better Than a Care Home
No institutional schedules, no visiting hours, no unfamiliar routines. Your parent lives in a proper home, with family next door.
Long-Term Investment
Adds 15-30% to property value, plus flexibility for future use as guest accommodation, home office, or rental income.
More Detail on Each Benefit
We've written separate guides covering the financial, care, and lifestyle benefits in depth.
Financial Benefits
Save over £500k compared to care homes, pay zero VAT under the Caravan Act, and add 15-30% to your property value.
Read moreCare Benefits
How an annexe compares to a care home for day-to-day living. Independence, family contact, and accessibility features.
Read moreLifestyle Benefits
What day-to-day life looks like when three generations live on the same property. The benefits for grandparents, parents, and grandchildren.
Read moreThe Financial Comparison
Care Home: 10-Year Cost
- ×Institutional environment
- ×Limited family interaction
- ×Fees increase 4-6% annually
- ×No asset value remaining
Granny Annexe: 10-Year Cost
- Home environment with family
- Daily connection with loved ones
- Fixed build cost, stable running costs
- Adds 15-30% to property value
Total Saving Over 10 Years
£536,000+
That's over half a million pounds saved, whilst keeping your family together
Why Families Choose Annexes
"We looked at care homes and the costs were staggering. Building an annexe for my mother-in-law was the best decision we've made. She has her independence but we see her every day. The grandchildren pop in after school and she helps with cooking."
Grannexe Customer, Kent
For Elderly Parents
- Maintain dignity and independence
- Stay close to familiar surroundings
- Daily connection with family
- Support nearby when needed
For Adult Children
- Peace of mind parents are safe
- Easy to provide support
- No guilt about care homes
- Reciprocal childcare help
For Grandchildren
- Grow up knowing grandparents
- Learn from older generations
- After-school company
- Regular time with grandparents
Future Flexibility
An annexe has uses beyond elderly care. When circumstances change, so can the purpose.
Guest Accommodation
Once no longer needed for elderly care, use it for visiting family and friends
Home Office
Perfect for remote working or running a home-based business
Adult Children
Housing for adult children starting their careers or saving for their own homes
Rental Income
Generate £800 to £1,200 per month in rental income (subject to planning)
Hobby Space
Studio for art, music, crafts, or personal projects
Property Value
Increases property value by 15-30%, making your home more attractive to buyers
Why Grannexe
We've been building annexes across Kent and London for over 20 years. We know the planning rules, the build process, and the questions families have. We're straightforward about costs and timelines.
Have a look at our gallery to see completed annexes, or give us a call to talk through your situation.
Want to Talk It Through?
Every family's situation is different. Give us a call and we'll give you an honest assessment of whether an annexe makes sense for yours.