Sheds and outbuildings

Sheds are great for storage or hobbies, but there are a few important things to keep in mind. 

Everything you need to know about sheds is right here: from permission and installation, to maintenance and moving out.

Shed maintenance responsibilities

If you’ve moved into a property with a shed, here’s how maintenance works:

  • Freestanding sheds: You’re responsible for maintaining and repairing these.
  • Brick sheds and outhouses: If they’re attached to your building or in communal areas, we’ll maintain them.

Want to put up a shed?

You’ll need to get our permission first. This helps make sure your shed won’t cause problems for you or your neighbours. 

When we review your request, we look at:

  • Size and location.
  • Impact on neighbours.
  • Whether it suits the area.

Your shed should:

  • Be under 15m² or take up less than 50% of your garden.
  • If it’s over 2.5m high, it needs to be at least 2m from the boundary.
  • If it’s 2.5m or lower, it can be on the boundary, if it stays within the fence line.
  • Be for storage or hobbies only – not extra living space.
  • Avoid blocking drains or underground pipes.

How to ask for permission

Please email us with:

  • Shed specifications.
  • Drawings (if you have them).
  • A quote or cost estimate.
  • Contractor details, including their name and public liability insurance information.

If we say yes

You’ll be responsible for all costs associated. You’ll also need to:

  • Follow any conditions we give you.
  • Get any building or planning permission (if needed).
  • Use a competent professional for the work.
  • Provide certificates for the work (e.g., electrical or FENSA for glazing).
  • Fix any damage caused during the work.

When the work is done:

  • Let us know so we can inspect it.
  • You’ll be responsible for looking after the shed.
  • Ask us again if you want to remove it or make changes later.

Moving out?

If you have a shed:

  • You must either gift it (free of charge) to the next tenant or remove it and return the area to its original condition.
  • If the shed is gifted and the new tenant doesn’t want it, we’ll arrange removal.
  • If they do want it, they’ll sign to agree to the conditions and take responsibility for upkeep.