Photo: Thirdman

Can I use my shed as a bedroom?

The short answer is no, if you're talking about a traditional garden shed. A garden building that is to be used as a 'granny annexe' or regular sleeping accommodation will require planning permission and must meet current building regulations.

waltons.co.uk - Can I Live in my Garden Shed? – Waltons

How much will it cost to build a lean-to?

A lean-to will cost around $15 to $17 per square foot, depending on whether you go with the open option (like on this building), or the enclosed...

Last updated Jul 6, 2022

How do I protect my plants from cold nights?

Cover Plants – Protect plants from all but the hardest freeze (28°F for five hours) by covering them with sheets, towels, blankets, cardboard or a...

Last updated Oct 5, 2022

Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

Learn More »

Promotion

The modern garden shed is just as likely to be a contemporary home office, craft room, gym or decorated relaxation space as a tired tool store at the bottom of the garden.

The big question is, can you live in one?

The short answer is no, if you’re talking about a traditional garden shed. A garden building that is to be used as a ‘granny annexe’ or regular sleeping accommodation will require planning permission and must meet current building regulations. The good news? With a few modifications you can use your shed as an extra bedroom. Here’s how.

Be clear about your shed's intended use

This quality log cabin from Waltons makes an ideal occasional bedroom

Putting a sofa bed in your garden room that guests, children, or snoring partners might spend a rare night in is very different to setting up a proper bedroom that will be slept in regularly. For occasional use, most people can construct a shed or garden room under permitted development rights (i.e. without applying for planning permission) and add a sofa bed for the odd guest. However, your garden room must comply with Building Regulations if anyone is going to sleep in it. Those who want to sleep regularly in their shed, or create self-contained accommodation, must comply with Building Regulations AND apply for planning permission. It’s important to understand that planning permission and Building Regulations are not the same thing.

Comply with Building Regulations

Planning permission and Building Regulations are not the same thing

To sleep in a shed or garden room, it must comply with Building Regulations. These control the quality of the building’s structure and ensure it is safe for sleeping in. The same rules apply to converting a garage or small brick building into an annexe. Seek the advice of your local planning authority before you begin. In general, building regulations cover things like:

Foundations and floor construction

Insulation and double glazing

Electricity

Drainage

When you have completed the work to the correct standard, and it has been inspected by the relevant authority, you will receive a certificate.

Do you need planning permission?

Turning a shed into self-contained living accommodation always requires planning permission

To set your garden building up as a regularly used bedroom, or to create self-contained accommodation that can be lived in, you must apply for planning permission as well as complying with Building Regulations. Before purchasing a log cabin, garden room or summer house from Waltons, contact your local planning office. Planning permission rules differ depending on where you live in the UK, but your local council’s duty Planning Officer will be happy to guide you through the process.

Download Waltons PDF guide to Planning Permission for more information.

Council tax

Consult your council to find out if you’ll need to pay tax for a self-contained shed If you create self-contained accommodation in your shed or outbuilding, bear in mind that you may be required to pay council tax. It’s your responsibility to find out. Living in your shed, log cabin or garden room requires contact with your local planning department, but with a little effort it’s certainly possible. If you haven’t yet bought a garden building, check with your planning officer before you take the next step. He or she will be happy to help you end up with something that is safe and comfortable.

How many square feet 10x12 shed?

A 10×12 shed has 120 sq. feet…, or does it?

Last updated Jul 21, 2019

How do you raise an existing shed?

Small sheds can go on concrete slabs or blocks. Larger sheds can also use slabs or blocks as a foundation to raise them off the ground. Concrete...

Last updated Dec 12, 2021

Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

Learn More »

Promotion

How much ground does 20kg of gravel cover?

For example, 20 kilograms of pebbles may cover only 0.5m2, and please do remember it does vary on the depth of the gravel or aggregate used. Do not feel discouraged.

stones4gardens.co.uk - Simply Calculate How Much Gravel You Need - Stones4Gardens

How do I calculate how much gravel I need? To calculate the weight needed to cover your specific area, such as pathways or driveways with our gravel or pebbles, you will need to know the length, width and depth of your space. By calculating the size of your outdoor space, our calculator will let you find an estimate which will help you while completing the order.

Calculator – How much do I need?

m Length m Width mm Depth

Area Volume Weight 20KG Bags - - - -

Please notes the purpose of the calculator is to provide a rough estimate. Simplest Gravel Calculator In The UK For example, if you want to cover 1m2 ( 1 meter x 1 meter) of your area of depth 50mm, you will need approximately 100kg of pebbles or gravel. On the other side, the depth of 30mm will need 60 kilograms. However, we do recommend a depth of at least 50mm for better results. Fraction 10/30mm 30/60mm 60/100mm 1m 2 3 Bags (50-60kg) 4 Bags (60-80kg) 5 Bags (80-100kg)

How much does a 20kg bag of gravel cover?

As heavy as it may sound, 20 kilograms or 50 pounds is not a lot when we look at the area we want to decorate in meters squared. Therefore, it is essential to understand the weight factor. For example, 20 kilograms of pebbles may cover only 0.5m2, and please do remember it does vary on the depth of the gravel or aggregate used. Do not feel discouraged. The final results are excellent! Yes, we've created a calculator with all our products in mind. You only need to select the depth depending on the decorative aggregate.

Will a pallet deck rot?

Do pallets rot? In the short-term, most wooden pallets can withstand weather conditions like rain and sun exposure. However, if pallets are stored...

Last updated Sep 19, 2022

What is the prediction for house prices 2022?

It said house prices will have risen 6 per cent by the end of 2022 but that they will fall 5 per cent in 2023 and a further 5 per cent in 2024 as a...

Last updated Jan 17, 2021