Question 1

Are Garden Offices Better Than In-home Office Spaces?

Accepted Answer

If you need a dedicated space to support your WFH lifestyle, deciding between in-house or garden structures is a personal choice. Still, the self-contained nature of a garden office makes it easier to support a work-life balance. Likewise, you will avoid facing the same distractions as working in a busy household or losing a guest room for the office transformation.

Question 2

Can I Run A Business From A Garden Office?

Accepted Answer

Running a business from a garden office is viable for many entrepreneurs. With the advancement of technology, remote work is increasingly feasible, making a garden office a practical space to conduct business operations. The key advantages include cost savings, a peaceful work environment, and the opportunity to separate work life from home life. However, it is essential to consider factors such as internet connectivity, utility access, and local regulations before setting up a garden office for business purposes. With careful planning and consideration, running a business from a garden office can be a successful and efficient choice for many entrepreneurs.

Question 3

Can Neighbours Object To A Garden Room?

Accepted Answer

Neighbours can object to a garden room if it breaches planning regulations, impacts their privacy, or causes excessive noise or disruption. To avoid potential objections and conflicts in the future, it is advisable to consult with neighbours and local authorities before proceeding with the construction. Prior communication and adherence to relevant guidelines can help mitigate objections from neighbours regarding any installation on your property.

Question 4

Do I Need Planning Permission For a Garden Building

Accepted Answer

Yes, you may need planning permission. The need for planning permission depends on the size and location of the building, as well as local regulations. It's important to check with your local planning authority to determine if you need permission before proceeding with the construction. Failure to obtain the necessary planning permission could result in enforcement action, so it's crucial to ensure compliance with regulations before starting the project. Take a look at our planning permission page for more guidance.

Question 5

Do I Need Planning Permissions?

Accepted Answer

Usually, garden rooms don't require planning permission as long as they meet specific criteria. This includes being a single story with a maximum height of 2.5 metres and must be located within two metres of a boundary.

However, different restrictions and permissions may be required if your garden room is larger, situated in a protected area or intended for business use.

Essentially, different areas have different requirements in terms of planning permissions, so we recommend checking with your local planning authority or consulting with our experts to ensure that your garden room is in compliance with all regulations.

Question 6

How Big Can A Garden Room Be Without Planning Permission?

Accepted Answer

In the UK, a garden room can be up to 50% of the total land area surrounding the original property without requiring planning permission. This means that if you have a 100-square-metre garden, your building can be up to 50 square metres to be considered permissible under the permitted development rules. It's important to note that this percentage may vary depending on specific local regulations, so it's advisable to consult with your local planning authority before proceeding with construction.

Question 7

How Long Will My Garden Room Office Last

Accepted Answer

The longevity of a building depends on various factors such as the quality of materials used, the construction process, and the level of maintenance. Typically, a well-constructed and well-maintained garden building can last for several decades. Choosing durable materials and ensuring proper installation can contribute to the longevity of the structure. Additionally, regular inspections and timely repairs can help prolong the lifespan.

Question 8

How to Insulate a Garden Room?

Accepted Answer

Insulating a garden room will make it useful all year round and comfortable.1st Choice Leisure Buildings provides many garden room options that have insulation already included, but if you're looking to enhance or add insulation to a garden room that's already built, here's how to do it:

Roof: Insulate your roof using rigid insulation boards or insulation rolls, making sure to maintain proper ventilation to prevent condensation.
Walls: Install insulation in your walls by adding high-quality insulation boards or rolls within the walls. Make sure that they fit snugly between the timber frames.
Floor: Lay batts or insulation boards under the floor, covering them with a vapour barrier to prevent moisture build-up.
Doors and Windows: The doors and windows are where you may lose the warm or cool air from your garden room, so it's a good idea to prioritise the insulation of doors and windows. Opt for double-glazed windows and insulated doors to minimise heat loss and maintain a consistent temperature.

Question 9

Is It Worth Building A Garden Office?

Accepted Answer

Building a garden office can significantly enhance your productivity and work-life balance. By creating a separate workspace away from the distractions of your home, you can focus better and achieve more in less time. A garden office adds value to your property and provides a peaceful environment for meetings or creative thinking. With the rise of remote work, investing in a garden office can be an intelligent decision for long-term flexibility and convenience.

Question 10

What Are The Building Rules For A Garden Room?

Accepted Answer

When building a garden room, ensure compliance with local regulations regarding size, height, distance from property lines, and applicable permits. Consider the impact on neighbours and the environment, adhering to any restrictions. Use quality materials and construction methods to ensure durability and safety. Seek professional advice, if needed, to guarantee compliance with relevant planning restrictions and avoid potential issues in the future.

Question 11

What Base Is Required For These Buildings

Accepted Answer

The best base is a solid concrete foundation. Concrete provides a stable and durable base that can support the weight of the structure and withstand changes in weather and ground conditions. It also helps to prevent moisture from seeping into the garden building, ensuring a longer lifespan. Additionally, a concrete base can be levelled accurately to ensure the room sits evenly, which is important for the structural integrity and aesthetics of the building. Overall, a concrete base is a good option for a garden room due to its strength, stability, and longevity. We can help with this so please ask about concrete or timber subframe options.

Question 12

What is a Garden Room?

Accepted Answer

A garden room is a standalone structure designed to be positioned in a residential garden. It provides additional living or storage space that seamlessly blends the indoors with the outdoors.

A garden room is versatile, providing plenty of options for how you'd like to use the space.

Whether you need a home office, a gym, a games room or a tranquil retreat, a garden room offers a stylish and functional extension of your home.

At 1st Choice Leisure Buildings, we can build and install garden rooms for you that are crafted with premium materials, insulated for year-round comfort, and customised to meet your specific functional and aesthetic needs.

Question 13

Why Choose 1st Choice Leisure Buildings?

Accepted Answer

1st Choice Leisure Buildings offers the perfect design, functionality, and quality combination.

Established in 1979 with nearly 50 years of experience, our family-run business is dedicated to helping homeowners transform their outdoor spaces with bespoke garden rooms, summerhouses or offices - whatever it is you may be looking for.

We pride ourselves on our commitment to customer satisfaction. We provide free delivery * in the UK and an assembly service.

With our extensive experience and range of premium products, choosing 1st Choice Leisure Buildings means investing in a space that enhances your lifestyle and adds value to your home.

Question 14

Why Not Consider A Multi-Purpose Garden Building With Additional Room?

Accepted Answer

All of our Royal, Regent, Platinum and Diamond Buildings are available with an extra room to suit you. Whether it's at the back, the side or accessed from the front, we can make a garden building combo for you. Don't compromise on what you would like to meet your requirements. Contact us NOW and chat through your needs or visit us and see examples for yourself. Free assembly on all garden buildings as standard.

Question 15

Why Should I Buy A Ready Insulated Garden Room or Office

Accepted Answer

Insulating a building involves installing insulation materials in the walls, floor, and roof to regulate temperature and create a comfortable environment. Common insulation materials include fibreglass, mineral wool, and rigid foam boards. It is important to seal any gaps or cracks to prevent heat loss and ensure the insulation is effective. Additionally, using double-glazed windows and insulated doors can further enhance energy efficiency. Proper insulation not only helps to maintain a consistent temperature but also minimises energy costs. 1st Choice's Platinum Fleet and Odiham buildings as well as all the Regent and Royal buildings are fully insulated as standard.

Question 16

Will I Be Warm Enough In The Winter And Cool Enough In The Summer?

Accepted Answer

Our Royal and Regent garden rooms are completely insulated and can be comfortably used all year round. The design and construction of our buildings help to maximise energy efficiency. The warmth of it will also depend on its location and the amount of sunlight it receives.