What to know before you buy a shed
This guide breaks down the key things to know before you commit.
What Most Shed Companies Don’t Tell You (Before You Buy) | 2026 Guide
Before you buy a shed, learn what most companies don’t tell you - from hidden costs to builders, approvals and timelines. Avoid costly surprises. Buying a shed seems simple - until you’re deep into quotes, permits, and unexpected costs. The reality is: there are a few things most shed companies don’t openly explain upfront.
This guide breaks down the key things to know before you commit.
1. Most companies don’t actually “build” your shed
Many shed companies are: Kit suppliers, not builders
That means:
- They design and supply the structure
- In many cases, you may need to organise a separate builder
Why this matters
- Builder lists may be supplied but not always locked in prior to signing the sale contract.
2. The quote often isn’t the final cost
- Many quotes exclude key items like:
- Site preparation
- Concrete slab
- Council approvals
- Installation
- Insurance
What this means
A “cheap” quote can quickly become expensive once everything is included.
3. Council approvals can be complex
Depending on your location:
- Site specific Wind actions matter
- Correct building classification matter
- Engineering must be compliant
- Approvals can take time
Some companies help with this, and others leave it entirely to you. Always clarify this upfront.
4. Lead times can be longer than expected
Common causes of delays include:
- Material supply
- Weather
- Installer availability
Even well-run projects can take longer than expected, so it’s important to plan ahead.
5. Not all sheds are engineered equally
Two sheds might look identical - but differ in:
- Steel thickness
- Connection systems
- Wind rating compliance
- Warranties
These differences impact longevity and structural strength.
6. Communication is where most projects fail
The biggest frustrations usually come from:
- Lack of updates
- Unclear timelines
- Misaligned expectations
Not the shed itself.
How to Protect Yourself
Before choosing a shed company, ask:
- What’s included in the quote (and what’s not)?
- Who handles approvals?
- What happens if there’s an issue?
Most shed companies aren’t trying to mislead you - but they often assume you understand how the process works.
The reality is:
- It’s not just about the shed
- It’s about the people delivering it
If you focus on:
✔ A reputable local team
✔ Clear communication
✔ Transparent quoting
You’ll set yourself up for a much better result.
Frequently Asked Questions
1) Do shed quotes include everything (kit, concrete, build)?
In many cases, initial shed quotes cover the structure only. Final costs can increase once additional items like site preparation, concrete slabs, drainage, and approvals are included. Always confirm exactly what is included before proceeding.
2) Do shed companies organise the builder?
Some shed companies can connect you with recommended builders, while others supply the shed kit only. In many cases, the builder is not formally locked in at the time of signing, so it’s important to clarify who is responsible for construction.
3) How long does it take to build a shed in Australia?
There are a few stages in the shed process, so it helps to break down the timeline:
1. Manufacturing
Your shed kit will typically take around 3–6 weeks to be manufactured.
2. Council approvals / building permits
This can vary significantly depending on your local council, ranging anywhere from 1 week to several months.
3. Construction (build time)
The time it takes to build your shed depends on size and complexity:
- A standard 6x6 garage may take around 1-3 days to erect
- Larger or more complex builds (like commercial sheds) can take 2–3 weeks or more
Factors such as weather and the size of the build team can also impact timelines.
Overall timeline
From signing your contract through to completion, most shed projects take approximately 2–4 months.
Please note timeframes can vary depending on your location, approvals, and project complexity.
Do I need council approval for a shed?
Most sheds require council approval, particularly for larger structures. Requirements vary depending on your location, size of the shed, and zoning. It’s important to confirm whether your shed company assists with approvals or if you need to manage this yourself. Take a look at our Council Approvals Guide for more information.
What wind rating should my shed have?
Wind ratings depend on your specific location and site conditions. Ensuring your shed is engineered to meet local wind classifications is essential for safety and compliance. You can learn more about Australian Wind Regions and shed industry accreditation here: Home - ShedSafe
What should I look for when choosing a shed company?
Key things to consider include:
- What’s included in the quote
- Does the company organise the builder or do they provide a list of builders – always lock in your builder prior to signing a contract.
- Engineering and compliance standards
- Communication and support throughout the process
- Warranties
Want help navigating the process?
If you’re unsure where to start, speaking with an experienced team can make the process much clearer.
At Totalspan, our local teams can take care of your entire shed project from start to finish - saving you the hassle of coordinating it all yourself. From design and kit supply through to council approvals, site preparation, concrete, and construction, we’ve got it covered.
Whether you’re just starting your research or ready for a quote, we’re here to help you make an informed decision.