Frequently Asked Questions

The Sheds

Do I need planning permission?

You won’t need planning permission for any of our standard range sheds to be located in a back garden. However, a front garden has different planning rules. In discussions with planning officers, any structure placed in a front garden technically requires planning consent. However, their advice has been that in practice, action is only taken if there are legitimate complaints from neighbours. We recommend looking along your street to see if there are any other structures in gardens and to talk to your neighbours. Unless you live in a strict conservation area, where there are no other structures in front gardens or if you have neighbours that you think might object, then it is unlikely that you will need to seek planning permission. On the whole most local councils support cycling initiatives.

If you are at all unsure, we recommend contacting your local planning office. In the event that you do need to submit a planning application, we are more than happy to supply you with the required planning drawings.

Do I need a concrete base for the shed?

A solid level base is required to ensure your shed works as intended, and prevent misalignment over time. A concrete slab is ideal, however units can also be built upon paving, tiles or decking.  Gravel and soil are unfortunately not suitable bases.

All sheds are supplied with adjustable metal feet to ensure the unit is made level during assembly. If your space is particularly uneven or has a steep slope, please let us know.

Do you do site surveys?

In all initial circumstances, we ask clients to provide measurements of their available space, accompanied by a photo or two of the intended location. From this we are able to offer the most suitable solution, and design bespoke bike sheds to fit your space perfectly. If the site poses any potential issues, or in cases of large commercial projects, we may find that a site visit is necessary.

I’d like a standard model but I need it to be a little smaller/bigger. Can you adjust the size?

Modifying the sizes of our standard models is not a problem – we can adjust the sheds to fit your particular requirements.

Can I add a green roof to my shed?

With bike sheds with a hinged lid (for easy access and low profile), we recommend a green roof on the fixed back part of the lid only. The weight of a green roof makes lifting the hinged lid too  heavy even with gas strut assistance). On a fixed roof this is not an issue. Please note, we supply the green roof structure only,  not the contents.

Can the shed be painted in a different colour?

Want to match your shed colour to your front door or fence and can’t find it within our 10 standard colour finishes? No problem. We offer a RAL colour matching service*, and if an exact match is required, we can often use the original brand of paint. Please ask when enquiring.

*Please note that there may be very slight variations  between the original colour and the match.

I have a manhole cover where I want to position the shed – will this be a problem?

Although a manhole is only accessed once in a blue moon, it is important that it can be reached. Often we can create a hatch or access panel so that moving the shed isn’t required. It depends on the exact position but we’ll do our best to amend a design to accommodate this access issue.

I don’t have any bikes to store; do you build sheds for other purposes?

Our sheds are constructed to ensure that they are completely protected from the elements. You can store anything in the shed and it will stay dry. An airflow created by the lid overhang ensures there is no build up of condensation.

Can I install the shed myself?

We can provide full instructions for self assembly. Installation requires a reasonable understanding and experience of building similar structures.  We recommend that two people assemble the shed, as the components are heavy.

For bespoke projects we offer installation only, due their nature.

Installation

What is the usual lead time?

All of our sheds are hand built to order. Delivery is normally within 10 weeks from the date of ordering. Please do contact us for current lead times, which may be longer during particularly busy periods.

What areas do you cover?

We install in most parts of the UK but can also deliver the sheds for self assembly, where appropriate. Please contact us for more information.

Do you export to other countries?

Yes, we are able to provide a delivery service of our Pedalbase and Spokeshed models to Europe.  Please contact us for further information.

How long does installation take?

The installation usually takes around 2 hours for a standard shed. For bespoke project, the time varies depending on the size of the unit.

What does installation involve?

Once your shed is ready, it will be delivered by our team in flat-packed panels. Our installers will then build the shed on site, ensuring that it is perfectly level. The shed will be fitted with an anchor point to chain your bikes to, and a locking mechanism to ensure it is kept secure when not in use. Once assembled, the team will finish the shed with any additional painting as needed, and will then have a thorough tidy up ensuring nothing is left behind but your lovely new shed.

Can you install the shed although I will not be at home at the time?

Our install team is totally self sufficient. As long as there is access to where the shed is going, they can carry out the work by themselves.

Aftercare

Does the shed come with a guarantee?

All our sheds come with a 5-year guarantee covering faults relating to manufacture. For a copy of our guarantee please email the office at info@thebikeshedcompany.com. In the event of a malfunction occurring, please do not hesitate to contact us and we will endeavour to resolve any issues as quickly and as conveniently as possible.

Is any maintenance required?

To keep your shed looking at its best we recommend applying a fresh coat of paint every 3-4 years, and ensure the unit is kept free of dirt and debris. Applying a small amount of oil to the hinges and locking mechanism on an annual basis will also maintain good working order.

Can my bike shed be added to my home insurance?

Insurance companies are very happy to include our sheds on home insurance policies. We are happy to provide any drawings or details if they are requested.

If I move house, can I take the shed with me?

In most cases, due to the bulk and weight of your bike shed, it will need to be dismantled and re-assembled in order to move it to a different property. We can provide you with instructions on how to undertake this – please contact the office on info@thebikeshedcompany.com, advising which shed you have and we would be happy to advise you.