If you’ve always wanted some extra space around your property for things like storage, workspace, additional living space, and more, an outbuilding might be a great option for you. However, putting an outbuilding onto your property isn’t as easy as simply throwing a shed up or nailing some pieces of wood together. To really make this project work, you’ll need to do some planning beforehand.
To help you through this process, here are three things to consider before putting an outbuilding on your property.
Check Out Your Local Laws First
The very first thing you’re going to want to do when considering an outbuilding is to learn about the local laws surrounding this type of construction.
Depending on where you live, both in relation to your actual property and the city or county you’re living in, the rules and regulations will vary. In many instances, you’ll need to get licenses and permits to start any kind of construction on your property. These hoops will ensure that you’re staying within your property, building something that’s structurally sound, and avoiding some pitfalls that could cause you bigger problems in the future, like building over your septic system. So before you get started with any of the actual building, make sure you know the laws of the land and have gotten any of the permissions that you need.
Ready The Land
Once you know where on your property you’re going to be able to put an outbuilding, you then have to get the land ready for construction to start.
Ideally, you should put your outbuilding on a patch of land that’s dry, flat, and solid. If there are things like trees coming through the area you’re wanting to build on, make sure you completely clear the land first. This way, you’ll remove any stumps or roots that might be underneath where you’re wanting to build.
Know What Your Plans Are For This Building
As you get nearer to the actual planning and construction phase for your outbuilding, it’s wise to really think through what you’re wanting to use this building for.
While you might know what you’re wanting it for right now, like storage for a specific item, the last thing you want to do is make the building too small for your needs. So while you might just want to store your lawnmower in your outbuilding, consider how your needs might change in the next few years and if adding some extra space could be beneficial to you.
If you’re wanting to add an outbuilding to your property, consider using the information presented above to help you take the right steps with planning and preparation so that you’re able to get exactly what you want from this construction project.