Shire Bespoke Summerhouses

The process, including delivery and installation, usually takes between 10-14 weeks.

Planning permission rules vary by location. We recommend checking with your local authority to see if permission is needed. - Read More:

Many summerhouses in the UK fall under "permitted development" rights, meaning no formal planning permission is required if specific conditions are met:

Size:

• If within 2 metres of a boundary, the height should not exceed 2.5 metres.
• If more than 2 metres from a boundary, height can be up to 4 metres for dual-pitched roofs or 3 metres for flat roofs.

Location:

• The summerhouse must be placed in the rear garden, not in front of the main elevation of your house.

Footprint:

• Outbuildings, including the summerhouse, should not exceed 50% of your garden's total area.

Use:

• The summerhouse should be for purposes incidental to the main house, such as a garden office, storage, or leisure space, and not as a separate dwelling.

Contacting Your Local Authority:

Before starting your project, we recommend checking with your Local Planning Authority (LPA). They can provide location-specific guidance and confirm whether you need planning permission or qualify for permitted development rights.

Opt for the largest summerhouse that fits within your space and budget-you'll always find a use for extra room. Consider its purpose, whether for work, hobbies, or relaxation. For added versatility, explore our log cabins with multiple rooms.

Choose a location with at least 18 inches of clearance around all sides for assembly and maintenance access. Consider roof overhangs and clear nearby shrubs or trees, factoring in future growth. A sheltered location is ideal for the best longevity.

A solid, level concrete base with a slight slope prevents water buildup and ensures stability. We don't recommend slab or shingle bases as they can settle unevenly. Base preparation guidelines are available upon request, and we also offer a Ground Screw option.

For assembly, you'll need a drill, hammer, electric screwdriver, rubber mallet, sandpaper, cutting knife, tape measure, step ladder, pencil, saw, damp-proof strip, silicone sealant, lock oil, spirit level, and string for alignment.

Our Shire Gold, Blenheim, Garden Studio, Mayfield, and Lela summerhouses are supplied untreated, allowing you to customise finishes. Treat the exterior after assembly for protection and oil hinges regularly. A professional pre-painted service is available for your bespoke summerhouse, providing a flawless, weather-ready finish from day one. This time-saving option ensures your garden building arrives with a perfectly applied, durable coating in your chosen colour. The Cali comes pre-treated.

Yes, we offer installation across most of the UK with the experienced team from Shire. Installation is included as standard with the Cali.

The teams at elbec and Shire will keep you informed throughout your bespoke summerhouse journey. From initial order confirmation to delivery scheduling and installation updates, we ensure clear communication at every stage. Have questions? Our friendly customer service team is readily available by phone or email to provide prompt assistance.

• Shire: Within 20 working days, Shire will text you to confirm your delivery date.

• Shire: After the order, you'll receive a text to book assembly terms; the delivery team will follow up with an installation date.

Assembly is straightforward, with easy-to-follow instructions. For questions, elbec's customer care team is here to help.

Yes, but we recommend hiring a qualified electrician for safe installation. If you require electrical installations alongside Shire's assembly service, please notify elbec in advance. It will help us to properly integrate electrical work into the assembly schedule, ensuring your chosen electrician can complete their installation efficiently and safely. Early coordination ensures a seamless process for your bespoke summerhouse

Please note: If you use Shire's assembly service and plan to install electrics in your building, you must inform elbec in advance. This needs to be planned into the assembly process to allow your electrician to carry out their work at the appropriate time.