Garden Office FAQ
At For Garden Buildings we've done our best to provide the following answers to the frequently asked questions, if you do not find an answer to your question here, contact us at 01483-889666.

Where do I locate my garden office?

There will be many suitable places in your garden to locate your garden office. Our experience enables us to help you the choose the best position in your garden. Your garden office does not normally require planning permission if it is your back garden, however you will require permission if you are looking to place your office in your front garden.

Does an office in the garden require foundations?

We build all our garden offices on raised foundations. The depth of the foundation will vary according to the type of soil, normally about 2 feet, but less if it is chalk. You can build on a concrete base, but this is not recommended as over time the wood will take in moisture which will shorten the life of your garden office. Building on proper foundations increases the life and provides good air flow to the base of your office building keeping it free from rot. Proper foundations will add about £500.00 to the cost of the project, but is well worth the extra spend.

What about services to my garden office?

You will need electricity and well placed sockets within your garden office. It is a good idea to draw a rough plan of your office and decide where your desk(s) will be located - think about other appliances like kettles, TV, fridges etc. We will install a conduit to carry electricity, phone and broadband cable from your home to your office.

What about lighting?

You will need to draw a plan of the layout your furniture, desks etc which will help in deciding the best position for your lighting. We will be able to assist you in the planning of your lighting. It is also a good idea to think about an outside light with a sensor. Your office will have  an open lofted roof, there are many exciting lighting effects.

Will I need heating?

Although our garden offices use the best quality insulation you will need heating in winter - probably the best is wall mounted convection heaters which are cost efficient to run and keep your office at a good temperature on cold winter days.

What type of windows and doors?

The doors and windows play a part in the overall insulation of your office in the garden - we use double glazed doors and windows, either timber or PVC. You will be able to choose from a variety of double glazed doors and windows.

Will I need gutters and a soakaway?

Gutters are essential in keeping the walls and ground around your office dry. In some cases you will need a soakaway to take the rain water away from the foundations.

Where are your garden offices manufactured?

Our garden offices are manufactured in the UK using the best quality materials, this gives us total control and flexibility in the materials used to build your garden office.

How long will it take to install foundations and erect your garden office?

The foundations will take a day to install. Depending on the size of your garden office it will take between 10 -14 days - this includes all fittings and finishes.

What areas do you operate in?

We operate within a 30 mile radius of Guildford, Surrey.

Garden Office Press Release October 2005