Have a supplier in mind?
Before committing to a garden dwelling, make sure you understand what you are buying, what is included and what still needs to be done.
Our paid online consultation at €250 with one of our Registered Architects provides you independent architectural guidance to help you review your proposed garden dwelling, understand your responsibilities and identify important questions to address with your supplier.
Before committing any further
A garden dwelling is a significant investment, and the supplier's package is only one part of the process.
The design, site conditions, foundations, drainage, access, fire safety and regulatory requirements all need to be considered. Understanding what is included — and what remains your responsibility — can help you avoid unexpected costs, delays and misunderstandings.
Our consultation gives you an opportunity to discuss your concerns, understand the questions worth asking and make more informed decisions about the way forward.
What should you prepare?
To make the most of your consultation, have the following available where possible:
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Your supplier's quotation and details of what is included.
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Any proposed floor plans, drawings or specifications.
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Information about your garden and the intended position of the dwelling.
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Details of any deposit paid or agreements already made.
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Any planning advice, correspondence or compliance information you have received.
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A list of your main questions or concerns.
Don't have everything yet? That's fine. We can discuss the information you have and identify what else may be needed.
Understanding your suppliers proposal
Has your supplier provided drawings, specifications or a package price? We can help you understand what has been proposed and identify areas that may need clarification.
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What exactly is being supplied?
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Does the proposal address your intended use and requirements?
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Are there important details you should clarify before proceeding?
Understanding the full cost
A quoted price may not cover everything needed to complete a garden dwelling. We can help you identify potential exclusions and ask the right questions before committing to further expenditure.
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Are foundations, groundworks and drainage included?
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Are delivery, installation and service connections covered?
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Could additional design, professional or compliance costs arise?
Planning and building requirements
Choosing a supplier does not automatically mean your proposed dwelling meets every applicable requirement. We can help you understand the main planning and building considerations and identify what needs to be confirmed.
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Has the planning exemption and its conditions been considered?
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What drawings, technical details or professional input may be required?
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Who is responsible for building-control documentation and completion certification?
Knowing what happens next
If you have already paid a deposit or agreed to proceed, you may be unsure what needs to happen before the dwelling can be installed or occupied. We can help you establish the next questions to resolve.
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What information is still outstanding?
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Which responsibilities belong to the supplier, homeowner or appointed professionals?
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What should be clarified before moving to the next stage?