From Choosing a Garden Home to Moving In: The Main Steps

A garden home project can seem like a single purchase: choose a model or a builder, arrange delivery and move in. In reality, the building is only one part of a process involving site checks, planning status, design, building standards, groundworks, services and handover documents. Setting out the stages in the right order helps you avoid paying for decisions that may later need to change.

1. Define the need and budget

Decide who will use the home, how it will be occupied, what rooms are essential and what future needs should be allowed for. Set a realistic budget that includes the building and the work around it. Keep a contingency rather than spending the entire budget on the structure itself. remeber you will require an Architect/Engineer to do the Design/assigned Certification so include this in your budget too.

Decide which features are essential and which could be added later, but do not postpone items required for safety or compliance.

2. Check the property

Gather planning permissions, site plans and information about existing structures. Note down access routes, boundaries, possible building footprint, drains, trees, slopes, retaining walls and neighbouring windows. Check whether delivery equipment can reach the site and where materials can be stored. If the site information is incomplete, arrange a survey or professional review before fixing the design.

3. Confirm the planning route

Since 27 July 2026, the new Irish exemption has covered certain detached auxiliary dwellings in the rear garden of a principal house. Check the exact legal conditions, previous planning conditions and site constraints. If there is uncertainty, ask the planning authority about the appropriate process, including whether a formal declaration is available. Do not treat a supplier’s general statement as a property-specific decision. You will require an architect/engineer at the construction stage so get them involved early for advice.

4. Establish building-control requirements

A planning exemption does not remove Building Regulations, building-control procedures or fire-safety requirements. Identify which qualified professionals are needed and who will handle design, inspections, certification and any required submissions. Confirm how the building will address structure, fire safety, insulation, ventilation, drainage, services and other relevant technical standards. Make these appointments early enough to influence the design.

5. Choose the design certifier / supplier

Consult for advise as well as design and technical requirements from a certified professional. Ask for a complete list of inclusions and exclusions.

Review dimensions, layout, materials, thermal specification, windows, doors, heating, ventilation, kitchen and bathroom fit-out.

Check warranties, payment milestones, programme, delivery access and aftercare. Ensure that the design is intended for the actual use of the building and that any changes are reviewed by the relevant professionals.

6. Prepare the site

Before build or delivery, confirm foundations, ground conditions, drainage routes, utility connections, access requirements and any necessary tree or boundary protection. Check the delivery route, lifting equipment and temporary access needs. Do not assume that site preparation is included simply because installation is included in the quote.

7. Build, inspect and record

Follow the agreed construction sequence and inspection plan. Keep records of materials, concealed work, site visits and approved changes. Contact the relevant professionals before stages are covered or inaccessible. If the builder proposes a change, get it reviewed and documented. A tidy record of the work is easier to maintain during construction than to recreate afterwards.

8. Complete and hand over

Before moving in, confirm that outstanding work is complete, services are operating, defects have been recorded and the documents required for the project have been provided. Collect final drawings, certificates, warranties, appliance manuals and maintenance guidance. Make sure the occupant understands heating, ventilation, drainage and maintenance requirements. Keep a digital and paper copy of the project file. Before you can occupy your ancillary dwelling, your assigned certifier must issue the Completion Certificate through the BCMS.

Keep the sequence flexible—but controlled

Some stages overlap, and site conditions can change the programme. What matters is that no major commitment is made before the decisions it depends on have been checked. Treat planning, compliance, site readiness and supplier scope as linked workstreams. A clear sequence reduces avoidable surprises and gives the household a better basis for planning the move-in date.

Thinking About Building an Ancillary Dwelling?

Whether you're planning a garden dwelling for a family member, creating additional living space, or exploring the potential of your property, getting the design and compliance right from the outset is essential.

At GardenDwellings.ie, our registered architects provide professional advice, architectural design and Building Regulations compliance services to help you bring your project from concept to completion.

Start your project with confidence.

Book an Online Consultation Today and let our experienced team guide you through the planning exemptions, design requirements and Building Regulations that apply to your project.