Customizing Questions

1. What does it mean that your sheds are “Built-To-Order”?
Each shed is built individually for each customer. We are not set up to offer unlimited customizing but we offer a long list of options and choices from which you can design your own individual shed.

2. How much control do I have over the placement of door, windows, shelving etc.?
You can have them placed almost wherever you choose. We’ll assist you with these decisions when you place your order.

3. I’m looking for something different. Can you change the design of your sheds?
You can pick and choose from many features and options, but our basic design remains the same.

4. Can I have a custom size made?
Perhaps. Our largest size is a 20×24, and our only width choices are 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, and 20 feet (the width is the first number of any given size). However we can make a custom length. For example we can change an 8×10 to an 8×9.

5. Can you put 2 sheds together or attach the shed to my house?
No. What you do with your shed after we finish is up to you, but we can only build them as individual detached buildings.

6. Can I provide my own doors and windows and have you install them for me?
Usually not. Providing your own windows & doors usually adds extra costs for labor and re-engineering. The Shed Shop will not be able to warranty customer- provided doors or windows.

7. Can I get any type of roof shingle that I want for my shed?
We offer standard 20 or 30 year composition shingles in a wide range of colors. If you want tile or wood shake, you will need to arrange for your own roofing.

Foundation

1. Will I need to pour a cement slab or make some other type of foundation?
It depends. Our sheds 120 sq. ft. or smaller include a built-in floor which we elevate on cement blocks, shims, and treated runners. Although a slab is the best base, a block and shim base is sufficient for most all shed uses. Sheds over 120 sq. ft. typically need a concrete foundation in order to obtain a building permit. We can arrange for either a concrete slab or foundation if required or desired.

2. Will my shed need to be anchored?
Usually not. Unlike flimsy metal sheds, ours are very heavy and won’t get blown around. However sheds larger than 120 square feet will be anchored to a concrete foundation. If you want your shed anchored, or if your city requires it, we offer several anchoring options.

3. What about earthquakes?
Our smaller sheds on treated runners will ride out a quake with little or no damage. If your shed slips off its blocks during a quake, we can re-place your shed on its blocks for a nominal fee.

Pricing & Ordering Questions

1. Is there sales tax on the total price?
It depends. “Free-standing” sheds are classified as “personal property” and sales tax must be paid on the total price (similar to tax on a refrigerator or new car). However, sheds that are “attached” to “real property” by foundation or other method are taxed on the value of the materials only.

2. How will you determine a quote for a shed over 120 square feet?
Sheds of this size typically require a building permit and the price depends on many factors. We will be able to calculate a quote after we visit your site, determine what features/options you want, and determine what will be required by your city/county.

3. Will I be subjected to a high-pressure sales pitch when I visit one of your showrooms?
No. Because each shed is built-to-order, we’ve learned it’s better to take our time and do it right the first time. Our staff is trained to be helpful and service oriented.

4. Do you require a deposit when I place my order?
Yes. Your deposit enables us to reserve an installation date, purchase building materials, and pre-cut the lumber for your shed. The final payment is due on the day of installation.

5. Will I lose my deposit if I need to cancel my order?
Only if you cancel at the last minute. We will promptly refund your entire deposit if you can give us at least 5 business days notice prior to your installation date. (note: for sheds with permits, you will forfeit a portion of your deposit if plans have already been generated and/or if non-refundable fees have already been paid to the city.)

Permit & Zoning Questions

1. Are you a licensed contractor?
Yes. We have a “General” and “Electrical” contractor’s license—number 1062810. We also have worker’s compensation and liability insurance and we’re happy to provide proof if requested.

2. What kind of zoning rules apply to sheds?
City/county zoning regulations specify height & size rules, and distances to property lines, easements, & other structures. These rules apply to all sheds regardless of size. For most sheds less than 120 sq. ft., you just need to follow these rules, but no application or permission is required. Although we will help you understand your city codes and help you meet them, you as the property owner are responsible to know what they are and to follow them.

3. When does a shed require a building permit?
There are exceptions, but most cities/counties require a building permit for any shed larger than 120 square feet, and any building with electrical.

4. What is involved in the permit process?

Knowing and understanding building & zoning codes.
Creating and submitting acceptable shed drawings and site plan.
Submitting the proper application to the city/county.
Responding to modifications that may be requested or required.
Picking up the permit once it’s approved.
Scheduling inspections.
Meeting inspectors on site as required.

5. Can The Shed Shop deal with the city and get the permit for me?
Yes! We include drawings, permit procurement, meeting inspectors, etc. in our published pricing for all sheds larger than 120 sq. ft. This saves you the headache of dealing with the city, plus we know how to correctly present the project so that it has the best chance of being approved with the least amount of cost.

6. Can I save money by getting the permit myself?
No. We will still be managing the project; interacting with the building department regarding questions or modifications; scheduling inspections; meeting inspector on site, etc. We recommend letting us handle the entire process for you.

7. What about City/County permit fees?
Because we don’t know the exact amount of the fees in advance, they are not included in our initial quotes. Once known they will be added to the cost of the project, but with no added mark-up.

8. Can I use my permitted shed as a bedroom or in-law quarters?
Standard and permitted sheds, no. If you purchase our Mini Cottage building, yes.
The Mini Cottage was designed to meet most local habitable space requirements.

9. Will a permitted shed affect my home’s value for property taxes?
When a permit for improvements is taken out on your home, your home’s assessed value may increase by an amount of the cost of the project. For more information, contact your local proper tax assessor’s office.

10. Do I need to worry about my Homeowners Association rules?
If you have a homeowners association, we encourage you to find out what their shed rules are before making any shed decisions.