atHome UK Garden Rooms | FAQs | atHome UK

Do I need planning permission/ are there any boundary restrictions?

All of our pre-designed units fit within standard permitted development guidelines UK-wide. The unit should sit at least 1 metre away from your boundary. If you wish to build a guest house, or have any specific requirements out-with these permissions, you may need approval from the council. We will be able to identify if any permissions are required at a site survey.

For more information on permitted development, please see guidelines relevant to your location: Scotland, England, N.Ireland & Wales.

What preparations do I need to do before it is built?

All you need to do is remove any obstacles such as trees, rocks, shrubs etc. Anything over 300mm from level may require additional groundwork.

What foundations do you use?

For the foundations we use ground screws - which are a low carbon alternative to concrete - with a raised timber-framed cassette floor on top. The beauty of our system is that it makes it simple to level an uneven site - so no digging or groundwork is required beforehand. No mess, damage or concrete. You can read more about our foundation system here.

What materials are they made from?

The cladding of our garden rooms are made from FDA-approved, construction-grade timber. We chose Premium Larch for the exterior as it is environmentally friendly, low maintenance and extremely appealing visually. We also have other options available including cedar and composite cladding. The taped and filled walls, ceiling and wooden floor are fully insulated with 100ml of glass wool and PIR boards. The windows and doors are PVC double-glazed and we use the latest, most advanced models to ensure maximum warmth and security.

Will grass or weeds grow underneath?

atHome installs a weed barrier membrane. Daylight won't reach underneath the garden rooms and therefore grass/weeds will not grow.

Will it have power?

The price includes the installation of a fully tested and certified consumer unit, electrical sockets, lighting and light switch. There is an additional cost to connect an armoured electrical cable from the unit to your house. This is because of the expertise and additional work required which can vary depending on the size of the garden and distance to your home’s distribution board.

If you have an electrician, they can do this for you or you can use one of our own who will be happy to provide a quote.

Will it be heated?

Your garden room will be fully insulated with reinforced glass fibre - an extremely strong and durable composite. The unit is also supplied with double glazed doors/windows and on top of that, even from our smallest of garden rooms we provide a Wi-Fi controlled heater as standard allowing you to heat up the room in advance from the comfort of your home.

What are your lead times?

All units are built in our very own factory in Ayrshire, Scotland. We currently have a 5-week turnaround for the fabrication, and then installation at your home should take approximately 3-7 days depending on unit size and weather conditions. You can also choose a pre-fabricated build delivered and installed in just 1 day (subject to access).

Is there a finance option?

atHome, we believe that you shouldn’t have to pinch your pockets to be able to purchase a garden room. You can pay in affordable monthly instalments to better suit your needs and budget.

We have partnered with Kandoo, a regulated credit broker to offer all our customers a range of highly flexible finance options. Kandoo is a comparison service that searches to find you the best Personal Loan option that’s right for you.

atHome UK Garden Rooms is part of the BOHO Group Ltd and is registered in Scotland, Company Registration Number: SC660081. Our registered office is 138 Hydepark Street, Glasgow, G3 8BW. atHome is an Introducer Appointed Representative ('IAR') of Switcha Limited, Trading as Kandoo which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, Firm Registration Number: 828963 for Credit Broking and Insurance Distribution. Switcha Limited is a Credit Broker and not a Lender. You can check this on the Financial Services Register at https://register.fca.org.uk/.

What upkeep is required?

Our units are all externally clad in Siberian Larch. This type of timber has lots of natural properties making it low maintenance – it does not require any further treatment. Over time it will weather to a natural silver-grey colour, so some people choose to add a translucent stain or coloured treatment. This is easy to apply at your own convenience if you choose to do so.

Will the doors and windows be secure?

All doors and windows are UPVC double-glazed as standard and supplied with a secure operating mechanism for ease of opening and locking. The door is fitted with a secure multi-point locking system and windows have lockable handles to provide maximum security. All doors and windows use insurance approved locks.

Can I have a bespoke build?

Yes! We have an expert team of experienced architects, designers and construction engineers who can bring your idea to reality. Just send us an enquiry by clicking below.

Is it guaranteed?

atHome, advanced design and quality is assured which is why we offer a 10-year guarantee against any structural defects. This comes as standard for any of our builds, please read our terms and conditions for more information.

How long does it take to build?

Construction at your home should take approximately 3-7 days. This all depends on the size of the unit and weather conditions. You can also choose a pre-fabricated build delivered and installed in 1 day (subject to access).

What is the delivery cost?

atHome Delivery Truck With Garden Room Parts

atHome offers free delivery anywhere within 60 miles of Glasgow City Centre. 60-100 miles from Glasgow is approximately £1350 and anywhere beyond can be priced on request.

I’m interested. What are the next steps?

Great! If you send us a message with your requirements and any questions you have, one of the team will get back to you shortly.

Frequently asked questions