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Due to the high costs of moving, an increasing number of people are opting to expand their current home rather than purchasing a bigger one. However, if you have already built up, built onto, or built down, a garden office can offer the perfect solution according to UK supplier Quick Gardens.
For starters, it is much cheaper compared to other options. To put things into perspective, a quality 20′ by 15′ garden office typically costs less than £10,000, even if you wish to include some expensive plants plus the cost of installation. What’s more, with just £1,000, you can get a small ideal garden office. When you consider the fact that a typical basement conversion can cost more than £100,000, investing in a garden office starts more economic sense.
Quick and easy installation
One of the best things about a garden office is that it takes very little time to install, typically less than a week. In addition, you don’t have to worry about dealing with excessive dust, loud construction noises, angry neighbors, or disrupting your family’s routine. And given that planning laws have eased up, this is the best time to invest in a garden office. Take a look at Quick-Garden rooms.
While you still need to check with your local authority to be on the safe side, here’s everything you need to know:
– In most cases, garden offices fall within permitted development. Essentially, planning permission isn’t required.
– A garden office can occupy up to 50% of your garden as long as it is below 2.5 meters high.
– Garden offices should be set up in the back garden unless you have planning permission to do otherwise
– Generally, these rules also apply in conservation areas. However, you will need to obtain planning permission in case you own a listed building.
So, are there any downsides to a garden office?
A garden office is normally only a daytime structure. And as such, it isn’t subject to building regulations. This means that they aren’t fitted with the proper fire safety devices. So, given that these structures are mostly built of timber, they are more prone to catching fire.
Even though we wouldn’t recommend sleeping in these structures, we can’t rule out the fact that it can happen every once in a while, for example, when you need a break from your parenting roles and hectic household chores. Thus, it is important to take necessary precautions such as installing a fire extinguisher and fitting mains-powered smoke detectors with battery backup.
Do garden offices add value?
It depends, but mostly yes. If properly maintained, a garden office can significantly enhance your quality of life. Many people running businesses have reported that having a garden office greatly helped to get their businesses up and running. Other people suggest that a garden office can help provide a personal sanctuary. And for some potential homebuyers, a garden office is a key selling point.
If space is the issue, you can always opt for a cold frame or greenhouse. However, it is important to note that, just like caravans, a garden office is a depreciating asset and are prone to deterioration.
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