Outbuildings

Guidance on adding outbuildings and external structures to your property. Topics include workshops, summerhouses, garages, sheds, granny annexes and plot purchasing considerations.

Build Your Own Summerhouse

Plan your garden summerhouse carefully by considering size, purpose, budget and local planning rules before you build.

Building a Granny Annex

Plan a granny annex with the right layout, accessibility features and entrance options to suit your family's needs.

Building an Outside Workshop

Plan a functional outdoor workshop on your property with power, heating, and layout tips for hobbies or home-based work.

Considerations When Building a Detached Garage

Planning a detached garage means thinking through permits, financing, driveway costs, and how much space you'll actually need.

Constructing a Garden Shed

Plan your garden shed by choosing the right size, location, and base so it works during construction and for years afterward.

Demolishing an Old Property: A Good Way to Buy a Plot?

Buying a house to demolish it can get you the plot you want, but check planning rules and why the current house is being sold first.

Enforcement Order for Having No Plans: A Case Study

How a couple's self-build home project ended in an enforcement order because their architect never submitted the required building plans.

Log Burning Stoves: Do You Need Planning Permission?

Check if you need planning permission before installing a log burning stove in your home.

Neighbour Said 'No' to My Self Build: A Case Study

A couple's self-build dream in Kent hit a wall when a neighbour mounted a campaign to stop the project, forcing them to navigate unexpected conflict.

No Access to Sewers and Drains: A Case Study

A couple's self-build dream turned into a nightmare when they discovered the land they bought had no access to sewers or drains.

Safety Concerns When Building a Children's Play Structure

Make sure your child's play structure has proper surfacing, fencing and visibility to keep them safe from falls and wandering off.

Staircases: What Type? What Will Fit? Limited Space?

Choosing the right staircase for your self-build home depends on space, regulations, materials and how you want it to look.

Stuck with a Part Built Home: A Case Study

Dave Ericson's auction purchase of a half-built house spiraled into unexpected costs that nearly ruined his family's finances.

Ten Things to Consider When Buying a Plot

Check ten critical factors before buying a plot for self-build, from legal terms to drainage and utilities access.