How Much Does Building an Outbuilding Cost?

Cost of Building an Outbuilding: Budgeting, Materials & Key Considerations

It’s time to calculate outbuilding costs with ease, whether you're interested in a sleek new studio or a sturdy workshop. Find out how materials like brick will affect your prices and what you can get for different budgets.

In this Price Guide we will talk about:

1. Building an Outbuilding Cost Overview
2. Cost of Labour
3. Different Materials Cost
4. Permit and Zoning Costs
5. What Could Increase Costs
6. Cost-saving Tips
7. Find a Local Builder
8. Common Questions

Building an Outbuilding: Quick Cost Overview

Building an outbuilding can be a highly effective way to make your living space go further, offering lots of uses from storage to guest accommodation.

These structures provide flexibility, improving both property functionality and value of your property, but you must understand the costs involved to budget effectively.

The average cost to build an outbuilding varies widely based on the size of the area, the complexity of the job, and the materials used. Generally, prices can start from as low as £1,500 for a prefab or modular outbuilding, while a more substantial brick outbuilding can average around £22,000.

Outbuilding type	Cost
Brick outbuilding	£17,500–£26,500
Prefab/modular outbuilding	£1,500–£6,500
Timber log cabin	£6,500
Concrete garage	£7,100

MyBuilder Tip: When planning for an outbuilding, always take into account potential additional costs like landscaping and site clearance.

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Labour and Construction: Estimating the Cost of an Outbuilding

Building an outbuilding requires careful planning and workmanship from whoever you decide to hire. The quality of work performed is essential in achieving a strong structure, so it’s important to hire building professionals to ensure your project meets all the safety and quality standards.

On average, the cost of labour for building an outbuilding can range from £150 to £250 per day for building professionals, and £100 to £150 per day for general labourers.

Take a look at how these costs are different depending on your needs:

Bricklaying: Expect to pay £150 to £200 per day.

Foundation work: Starting at around £2,500, depending on soil conditions.

Roof installation: Generally costs about £1,190 or more depending on materials and design.

Electrical work: A basic installation with light and two sockets can cost around £1,500.

Want to find out how these services could turn your outbuilding into a reality? Connect with a building professional near you today.

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Different Material: How Do They Change Outbuilding Costs?

Materials play a very important role in determining the cost of an outbuilding, impacting both the budget and the building's long-term durability. The selected material often dictates the outbuilding's structural strength, its look, and maintenance requirements.

When choosing materials such as wood, metal, or brick, keep in mind that costs per square metre can vary widely.

Wood, typically used for timber log cabins, is generally less expensive but may require more maintenance.

Brick provides longevity and insulation benefits, but may cost more.

Metal is often cost-effective but may offer limited aesthetic appeal compared to other options.

This table can give you the average cost for different outbuilding materials:

Material	Cost per square metre
Wood	£40–£80
Brick	£100–£200
Metal	£50–£100

Note: The choice of material impacts not only upfront costs but also energy efficiency within the outbuilding.

Thinking about a natural, stylish, and cost-effective option? A wooden cabin could be the perfect fit for your garden space. Take a look at our Cabin Cost Guide

Permitting and Zoning: Hidden Costs of Building an Outbuilding

Constructing an outbuilding is an exciting project, but it comes with certain legal responsibilities. To ensure a smooth build, obtaining the necessary permits and knowing about zoning laws is crucial.

Getting permits typically involves fees that vary depending on your local regulations and the scope of the project. Not adhering to these can lead to additional fines and amendments to your building plans.

Possible hidden costs related to permits and zoning:

• Planning application fee: £258
• Lawful development certificate application: £103
• Building regulations approval £800–£1,800
• Party wall agreement (if applicable) £1,000–£2,000

Looking for something a little bit different? A house extension could be the ideal solution. Take a look at our House Extension Cost Guide to explore more options.

Hidden Additions: What Increases Outbuilding Costs?

Building an outbuilding involves various known costs like materials and labour, but there are several potential additional expenses that could significantly increase your overall cost.

These hidden costs can be overlooked during initial planning, but they play a key role in shaping your budget.

Avoid unpleasant surprises by knowing what the additional service could be

Utility Connections: Electricity, water, and drainage can add up. Electrical connections typically cost £1,500 to £2,500, while water and drainage can range from £2,000 to £5,000.

Professional Fees: Professional services such as architectural designs, planning, and structural engineering can add significant costs. Planning and design services generally range from £350 to £950, while structural calculations or surveys can cost between £500 to £1,500.

Groundwork and Site Clearance: Before construction begins, clearing the land and preparing the site is necessary. This includes vegetation removal, soil reinforcement, and levelling, and can cost an additional £3,000 or more depending on the site’s condition.

Planning and Permit Fees: While some outbuildings are covered by permitted development rights, certain projects still require building regulations approval, ranging from £800 to £1,800. If your project involves shared boundaries, a party wall agreement will be necessary, costing between £1,000 and £2,000.

Cost-Saving Tips: How to Build an Outbuilding on a Budget

Building an outbuilding can be a significant investment, but there are several ways to help you manage and reduce costs effectively. By carefully planning the project and selecting affordable options, you can achieve your desired result without overspending.

Implementing these cost-saving tips will enable you to build an outbuilding that suits your needs and budget:

1. Source materials from local suppliers to save on transportation costs.

2. Consider using prefabricated components for a quicker and more cost-effective construction.

3. Limit custom features and focus on essential functionality to avoid excess expenditure.

4. Perform tasks like painting or landscaping yourself to reduce labour expenses.

If you want to learn even more details about new builds and their requirements, take a look at our full new build cost guide.

Bring Your Outbuilding to Life: Connect with Verified Builders on MyBuilder

Whether you're dreaming of a new office, studio, or storage space, our platform ensures you find the right building professional to bring your vision to life. Simply post your project on MyBuilder and start your outbuilding off right.

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FAQ: Common Questions Readers Ask About Building Their Outbuilding

What are the long-term benefits of investing in a high-quality outbuilding?

Investing in a high-quality outbuilding offers several long-term benefits. These include increasing your property's market value and providing versatile space that can adapt to changing needs, such as a home office, gym, or guest accommodation. High-standard construction can reduce the need for frequent repairs and maintenance. It can also enhance energy efficiency, especially if built with good insulation, leading to lower utility bills.

What are the common challenges faced during the construction of an outbuilding?

Construction of an outbuilding can face several challenges, including weather conditions affecting construction timelines and delays due to supply chain disruptions for materials. Unforeseen ground conditions can lead to unexpected costs. Also, managing the coordination between different contractors and services can be complex if not planned well.

Are there any cost-effective alternatives to consider for building an outbuilding?

Yes, several cost-effective alternatives are available for building an outbuilding. Consider using wooden sheds or prefabricated metal structures, which are usually more affordable and quicker to assemble. Using reclaimed or recycled materials can reduce costs and is an environmentally friendly option.

How can I ensure my outbuilding project stays within budget?

To keep your outbuilding project within budget, start with detailed planning and a clear understanding of your needs. Establish a realistic budget with a contingency fund for unexpected expenses. Obtain quotes from multiple contractors and suppliers to find competitive rates. It’s also important to monitor the build closely, to avoid any deviations from the planned work and costs.