A garden shed is one of the more affordable ways to add real storage or workspace to a UK garden, but prices vary enormously depending on material, size, and whether you buy ready-made or have one built. This guide breaks down realistic 2026 costs so you know what to budget.
How Much Does a Garden Shed Cost in the UK?
A garden shed in the UK typically costs between £500 and £3,000 fully installed, with a mid-range timber shed on a prepared base usually landing between £1,500 and £4,000 once base preparation and delivery are included. Basic budget models start from as little as £150 to £400, while larger, better-specified sheds can exceed £5,000.
Garden Shed Cost by Material
| Material | Typical cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Budget timber (overlap) | £150 to £900 | Thinner timber, needs regular treatment to avoid rot |
| Mid-range timber | £1,500 to £4,000 | Better build quality, often log-lap or interlocking construction |
| Metal | £150 to £2,500 | Lower maintenance than timber, less prone to rot |
| uPVC | £300 to £1,500 | Very low maintenance, though less traditional in appearance |
| Brick or block | £3,000 to £10,000+ | The most durable and long-lasting option, but needs planning permission in most cases |
What Affects the Cost
- Size: a small 6×4 shed typically costs less overall than a large 12×8, though larger sheds often offer better value per square foot.
- Base preparation: a solid concrete or slab base typically costs £300 to £800, and is essential for stability regardless of shed material.
- Timber thickness and treatment: thicker log-lap or interlocking timber lasts significantly longer than thin overlap panels, even at similar advertised sizes.
- Delivery and installation: DIY assembly saves on labour cost but requires time, tools, and some building confidence to get right.
- Electrics: if you plan to use the shed as a workshop or home office, adding power should always be done by a qualified electrician, and adds to the overall cost.
Do You Need Planning Permission for a Garden Shed?
Most garden sheds fall under permitted development and do not need planning permission, provided they stay under 2.5 metres in height (or 3 metres with a pitched roof), are positioned behind the house rather than in front, and do not cover more than half the garden. Brick or block sheds, and any structure close to a boundary or used for purposes beyond simple storage, are more likely to need approval, so it is worth checking with your local planning authority if your plans go beyond a standard timber or metal shed.
If you are planning a wider garden project alongside your shed, our garden landscaping ideas on a budget covers other low-cost improvements worth considering at the same time.
DIY Versus Ready-Made
Buying a factory-made shed and having it professionally installed is often more cost-effective than building one from scratch once errors, rework, and finish quality are taken into account, unless you already have the tools, time, and building experience to do it well. For small standard sizes in particular, a ready-made shed can sometimes cost less than sourcing the raw materials yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a basic garden shed cost?
A basic budget timber or metal shed typically starts from around £150 to £400, though this usually excludes base preparation and installation.
Do I need planning permission for a garden shed?
Most garden sheds fall under permitted development and do not need planning permission, provided they stay under the standard height limits and are not positioned in front of the house.
Is a metal or wooden shed better value?
Metal sheds generally need less maintenance and resist rot better than timber, while wooden sheds are more traditional in appearance and easier to modify or extend later, so the better choice depends on your priorities.
How much does a shed base cost?
A solid concrete or slab base typically costs £300 to £800 depending on shed size, and is an important investment regardless of the shed material chosen, since it affects long-term stability.
Can I add electricity to a garden shed?
Yes, though any electrical installation must comply with UK regulations and should always be carried out by a qualified electrician, particularly for a shed used as a workshop or home office.
Costs in this article are general UK estimates for 2026 and vary by region, supplier, and specification. Always compare total, all-in costs including base, delivery, and installation rather than the advertised shed price alone.
About the Author
Spire Homes Editorial Team researches and writes practical, UK focused home improvement guides covering renovation planning, financing, interior design, and outdoor living. Our content is reviewed for accuracy and updated as prices and standards change.
