Outbuildings – What Do You Need To Think About

Purpose and Design

First, ask yourself what the outbuilding will be used for. This could be anything from a storage shed to a workshop, a home office or even a rehearsal space! Knowing the purpose of the building will help you decide on the size, features and layout, not to mention where the best place to put it is!

Once you make that decision, you have more things to consider. For example, what it’s going to be made from. Some materials aren’t as durable as others, and some will need more specialist installation. For instance, if the building is sat on a concrete base, you’ll need to think about how a timber floor will be protected once it’s laid. If a timber building is sat on a concrete base or paving that is wider than the building, it allows rainwater to come into contact with the base. Since outbuildings can be expensive, the last thing you want is to have to replace it when the floor rots away after just a few years!

Then there’s maintenance to think about. Timber components might need more regular maintenance to protect them from the elements than other materials. That means you’ll need to budget for the initial cost and any top ups down the line. The same goes for the roof materials – weigh up installation cost against maintenance cost when you’re choosing what to get.

If anyone will be spending time in the outbuilding, then there’s some logistics to think about too. Does it need to be insulated? Heated or cooled? Do you need to have it ventilated so that all of those inside finishes don’t get damaged? If you’re going to lay flooring on a timber floor, check with the manufacturer that your choice is appropriate. Remember, this building will be outdoors and not as thoroughly constructed as a house, so you need to plan every detail.

Location

Next, placement! Where is your outbuilding going to be located? This will partly depend on the space you have, and partly on what the outbuilding is for. For example, if it’s for storage, then closer to the house might be convenient. If it’s a workshop or office, you might want it further to minimize noise.

You’ll also need to think about if you want to run electrics or other utilities (like plumbing) to the outbuilding.  If you do, then the distance from your main supply will affect the cost of the project. In some cases, it might limit where you can put it altogether. Remember, always consult a qualified electrician for electrical works – don’t DIY it!

Planning Requirements

This might surprise you, but outbuildings are subject to planning restrictions too! Not all of them, but there are rules around them. For example, what the size, height and placement of your outbuilding can be before you need planning permission. Each local authority is a little bit different, so we can’t give you exact guidance here. But it’s always worth checking local planning restrictions.

Normally outbuildings are considered to fall under permitted development, as long as the following conditions are met:

It’s important to know that these don’t apply to flats and maisonettes. Or to other situations where an article 4 direction or other restriction applies.

Budget

This is true of any project, but especially outbuildings. Plan your budget carefully. Be sure to account for materials, labour, permits and any professional fees you may need to pay if you hire a contractor. Remember, the building itself isn’t the only cost you’re paying. If you need to install a base, run services to it, install heating or cooling systems or hire anyone to actually install it, you need to budget for it.

The costs to do all of this will vary substantially. Everything from the size of the outbuilding to its quality, and even the function the building will serve. So, make sure you get quotes when planning things out, and budget in a contingency fund for when things go over.

Practical Considerations

This is more of a note than a full point, but it’s worth having a line in your planning process for practical considerations. Specifically, access. You’ll need to make sure there’s access to the area for construction in the beginning. But you’ll also need to think about pathways, lighting and security for future use.

Impact on Neighbours

Not all neighbours are going to be happy with you putting up an outbuilding in your garden. Take some time to think about the impact it might have on them, especially if it’s going to be close to the property boundaries. You’ll need to make sure that it doesn’t obstruct their views or invade their privacy when you’re deciding where to put it. If the outbuilding will be used for something that generates noise (like a workshop), then you’ll need to think about soundproofing options. For your sake and your neighbours!

Insurance

Finally, check with your insurance provider. Not all home insurance policies will include outbuildings, so you may need to take out extra coverage. This usually depends on the type of structure and it’s use. A simple phone call to your insurer, or combing through the documentation, should do the trick.

If you’re looking to install an outbuilding on your property and you’re not sure where to start, or just want some expert advice, we would be happy to help. At Harrison Clarke, we pride ourselves on transparency and efficiency, so we can help you get the outbuilding of your dreams, without any of the legal hiccups! For more information, just get in touch with the team at Harrison Clarke on 023 8155 0051.

For more expert advice on surveying and property matters, check out our range of informative videos on our website or YouTube channel. Harrison Clarke Chartered Surveyors is here to guide you every step of the way!

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