No. A typical storage shed is not built to meet the code requirements as a habitable structure. If the shed company has certified engineer drawings, those are still based on sheds, not habitable spaces. But, working with local zoning and building inspectors’ offices, there are upgrades that can be made to turn it into one!

A Shed to Home conversion is a cost-effective, Do-It-Yourself option for those individuals looking to build a living space within a smaller footprint (downsizing, vacation retreat, etc.) and with the desire to take full ownership of their project. The shed serves as a “starter package” and the base of your new living space

No. Sheds are structures designed for storage that you can upfit or convert into a habitable/living space. This process requires working with local building authorities to ensure all the work meets code. Generally, sheds would be considered stick-built construction. Once complete it may be considered as real property.

This is a question for the local planning and zoning departments. There are different regulations for a stand-alone building on its own property versus an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU). The zoning authority will be the final answer to this question.

When looking at interior dimensions, it is very important to note that the exterior wall studs sit on the perimeter of the building sub-floor. The width of the wall studs should be deducted from all sides of the building.

Example: 14’ wide x 40’ long might have an approximate unfinished interior width and length of 13’5” x 39’5”.

But then you have to keep going. Remember to add your interior wall finish thickness, i.e., ½ or ¾ inch drywall, to determine your exact interior square footage of the building.

When determining the number for permitting, also keep in mind that when they require a specific minimum or maximum st ft of living space, you have to subtract spaces such as bathrooms and kitchens.

You’ll need to get your calculator out for this one. And you will want to work with your shed company for their exact interior measurements. Most shed companies provide dimensions based on the outside, eave-to-eave measurements due to transporting the units.

The foundation is a vitally important part of the conversion process.

Check with your local Building Inspector’s office about requirements in your area. Most areas do have specific requirements regarding foundation specifications. It is the responsibility of the soon-to-be homeowner to understand these requirements and ensure your building foundation meets code and will pass inspection.

Keep in mind, these units are not recreational vehicles or a tiny home on wheels like featured on many home improvement type shows.

It’s definitely more portable than a standard home. Most shed companies can relocate a building up to a 14’x40’ size with a specialized shed trailer. But remember that if you hook up plumbing and utilities, these would have to be unhooked just look a mobile home. And the insides can get moved around so it would need to be prepped accordingly.

No, Rent to Own programs are typically designed for storage buildings. Because rent-to-own is a monthly program, shed companies need access to remove the property if payment is not made. Electric and plumbing hookups can impede that process.

Check to see if your shed company works has a special financing option.

While turnkey tiny home solutions often sell for $110k - $250k, shed-to-home conversions are more economical, with typical investments for the shed itself between $20k - $40k and finishing ranging anywhere from $20k - $100k plus, depending on materials used and whether you are hiring subcontractors versus doing it yourself.

Here are a few items you need to consider in your budget planning:

1. The Shed

2. Permits

3. Foundation

4. Interior finishes

5. Utility hookups

6. Exterior/landscaping

7. A General Contractor (if you need professional help)

Every item has a huge range of costs available. Set the budget and then see where you can make allowances. Make sure you have the funds to follow through with the whole project.

The most important thing to realize is that when you see people touting that they built a tiny home for a price that seems too good to be true, that is because it’s too good to be true. Go into the process realistically!