Are Garden Rooms Worth the Money? Pros, Cons & ROI Explained
Thinking about getting a Garden Room?
Many of our clients have built their Garden Rooms in Surrey, primarily through the want/need or desire to add space to their property, but are garden rooms worth the money? We keep getting asked…so we decided to write a blog about it!
Are Garden Rooms Worth the Money? Key Benefits
1. Extra Living Space Without the Hassle of an Extension
One of the biggest advantages of a garden room is that it provides additional space without requiring extensive home renovations. Compared to a traditional home extension, garden rooms are:
- More affordable
- Faster to install (often within a few weeks)
- Less disruptive to daily life
2. Increases Property Value
Studies suggest that a well-built garden room can increase property value by 5-15% dependent on the area. This makes them a sound investment, especially in high-demand housing markets.
3. Energy-Efficient & All-Season Use
Modern garden rooms come with high-quality insulation, double glazing, and eco-friendly heating options. This makes them comfortable to use year-round while keeping energy costs low.
4. Highly Versatile & Customisable
Whether you need a home office, gym, guest room, or entertainment space, garden rooms can be customised to suit your needs. Many suppliers offer tailored designs, allowing you to pick materials, finishes, and layouts that match your home aesthetic.
Garden Room Costs: How Much Do They Really Cost?
The price of a garden room varies based on size, materials, and added features. Here’s a general breakdown:
| Garden Room Type | Estimated Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Basic Models | £15,000 – £25,000 |
| Mid-Range | £25,000 – £45,000 |
| High-End Luxury | £45,000+ |
Additional Costs to Consider:
- Electricity & Heating: If you need power outlets, lighting, or heating, expect additional costs.
- Plumbing: If you’re planning a bathroom or kitchenette, installation will add to the price and may require additional planning permission.
- Furniture & Interiors: Furnishing your garden room could range from £500 to £5,000+.
- Cladding: We’ve seen the cost of certain cladding (like Western Red Cedar) rocket in price over recent years, due to it’s luxury properties. The cladding on our Ashtead Office project ended up being more than half of the overall build cost (and this was a few years ago)…but doesn’t it look good!
How Much Value Does a Garden Room Add to Your Home?
A well-designed garden room can increase your property’s value by up to 15%. For example, on a home worth £600,000, this could mean an added value of up to £90,000 although this could be at the upper end of an increase.
Factors That Impact Resale Value:
- Quality of Materials: A well-built structure will retain value better than a cheaply made one, which is why we only use the best materials.
- Permitted Development Rules: If a garden room meets planning requirements, it is a bonus for future buyers.
- Usability: Fully insulated garden rooms with electricity and heating are more attractive than basic structures.
Do You Need Planning Permission for a Garden Room?
In most cases, no planning permission is required if the structure meets the following criteria:
- It does not exceed 2.5m in height (if within 2m of a boundary).
- It does not cover more than 50% of the garden area.
- It is not used as a permanent residence.
However, if your property is in a conservation area, listed, or subject to special regulations, you should check with your local planning authority before proceeding.
Are Garden Rooms a Good Investment? Pros & Cons
Pros:
✅ Adds extra living space without major renovations
✅ Can increase property value by up to 15%
✅ Ideal for home offices, gyms, entertainment, and studios
✅ Quick installation compared to home extensions
✅ Energy-efficient & usable year-round
Cons:
❌ High-quality builds can be costly
❌ Requires garden space, which may not suit smaller properties
❌ May require planning permission in some areas
FAQ: Common Questions About Garden Rooms
Q: Do garden rooms increase property value?
A: Yes! A well-built garden room can increase property value by 5-15%, depending on the size and quality.
Q: Can a garden room be used as a permanent residence?
A: Generally, no, unless it meets building regulations for residential use. You may need planning permission for this.
Q: How long does it take to install a garden room?
A: Most garden rooms can be built within 2-6 weeks, depending on size and complexity.
Final Verdict: Are Garden Rooms Worth the Money?
If you need extra space and want to add value to your property, a garden room is a fantastic investment. With rising property prices, having a functional, insulated outdoor space can make your home more attractive and usable. While the initial cost may be significant, the long-term benefits – including property value appreciation, versatility, and lifestyle improvements—make garden rooms worth considering.
