How to Choose the Right Shed Company for Your Backyard

A neat red wooden garden shed with tools hanging on its wall. Ever wandered into your backyard daydreaming of the perfect shed? It’s not just a place to stash stuff anymore – it could be your she-shed, man-cave, home gym or workshop.

Choosing the right shed company is like picking the final piece of your outdoor style puzzle: you want someone reliable and in tune with your vision. Imagine a local outfit that treats your backyard as carefully as you do. Let’s chat about how to pick the one that’s just right.

Know Your Shed Needs

Before you talk to any builders, get clear on what you really need. A shed isn’t one-size-fits-all. Maybe it’s just storage for bikes and tools, or perhaps it’s a full-blown workshop with electrical outlets or a window to let in the sun. Answering these will guide every other decision.

• Purpose: Will it hold lawn tools, serve as a garden potting shed, or be your new work-from-home hideout? The use (storage vs. workspace vs. leisure) changes the design.
• Size and Layout: Measure twice! A 3×3m unit might fit lawnmowers, but if you want a small home gym or carport extension, you need more room. Jot down dimensions – you’ll thank yourself later.
• Style and Features: Do you picture a sleek modern look or a rustic timber vibe? Fancy an awning or extra windows? Even a small choice (like Colorbond colour) can affect the feel. This is the fun part – Pinterest that dream shed and note what catches your eye.

Making a checklist of these needs will help when you talk to a shed company. They can then tailor the design (and quote) to your specs, rather than selling you some generic box.

Materials and Design

What your shed is made of and how it looks matter a lot, especially in North Queensland’s climate. Most Aussie sheds use Colorbond steel or zincalume – it’s tough against termites and cyclones. If you love a natural look, treated timber can work, but remember it needs paint/sealant and checks for rot.

• Steel (Colorbond): Durable and low-maintenance. Handles tropical storms and pests like a champ. Available in heaps of colours. Downsides: can be hotter inside, and premium grades cost more.
• Timber/Composite: Gives a cottagey feel. If you pick this, a good shed company will advise proper coatings (UV-resistant paint, termite treatments). Wooden sheds need a bit more TLC in our humidity.
• Roof Type: Classic peaked roofs (gabled) are timeless, but you could ask for a skillion (lean-to) or even a curved roof. Some locals even do corrugated iron for a retro vibe. The point is: the more unique the design, the fewer companies can supply it. Make sure your builder has done it before.
• Extras: Skylights, built-in shelving, extra doors – these all add cost and complexity. A clever shed company will show you catalogues or mock-ups of these features.

In short, match materials to your budget and style. A steel shed will outlast a plain wooden one here, but it might not have the cosy look you want. Talk options through with your builder.

Find a Reliable Shed Company

When you’ve nailed down what you need, it’s time to pick who will build it. In North Queensland, a local Reliable Shed Company with solid refs can be worth its weight in gold (minus the brand fluff). Here’s what to look for:

• Experience: Have they built lots of sheds? Seasoned companies know the local quirks – like cyclone kits if you’re above the Tropic of Capricorn.
• Reputation: Hunt down reviews on Google or Facebook. Chat with mates or neighbours who’ve had sheds built. A real person’s feedback trumps online ads every time.
• Communication: Do they respond quickly and listen? A top-notch shed builder explains things in plain English. If they’re patient with your questions, you’re off to a good start.
• Customization: Can they tweak the design? For example, if you want that extra-height door for a motorbike or a special window for the dog, make sure they say “no worries”.
• Warranty & Service: Always ask “What if something breaks later?” A trustworthy shed company will offer a decent warranty on materials and workmanship, and it should include installation in the package (not a surprise extra).

In short, treat this like interviewing contractors. The right shed supplier will feel like a helpful mate, not a pushy salesperson.

Compare Quotes and Budget

Quotes from different companies can vary wildly. Get detailed, itemized quotes so you really compare apples with apples. For example, one might include installation in the price while another lists it separate. Lay them out side by side:

Bottom line: bigger and fancier = more dollars. But dirt-cheap deals can backfire (thin steel, missing bolts, no follow-up). A good shed company will help you trim costs by suggesting smart compromises – for example, standard sizes or simpler rooflines that save cash without sacrificing safety.

Credentials and Warranties

Don’t just take their word for it – verify credentials. In Queensland, any serious builder should be licensed or work with a licensed contractor (QBCC number is a good sign). Also:

• Insurance: Ask if they have public liability insurance. If someone gets hurt or your car gets scratched, you don’t want to be on the hook.
• Standards: Quality steel should meet Australian standards (e.g. AS/NZS 1170 for wind loads). It’s okay to ask if their sheds comply. A transparent company will know the codes or have a certifier on board.
• Warranty: A reliable shed usually comes with at least a 5–10 year warranty on materials (steel, bolts) and maybe 1–2 years on workmanship. If the quote has no warranty at all, that’s a red flag.
• After-Sales Service: If something’s wrong, will they come back and fix it, or do you call some random handyman? Check that the company stands behind its work.

Think of hiring a shed builder like choosing a plumber or mechanic: you want credentials, insurance, and a guarantee. It may not sound glamorous, but it’s your protection if the unexpected happens.

Local Regulations and Permits

A crucial (and often overlooked) part: regulations. Even a simple shed can trigger council rules. In Queensland, the Building Code of Australia lumps sheds under “Class 10a” buildings. The good news? If your shed is small and meets every limit, you might not need a full permit. For instance, Brisbane City Council notes you don’t need building approval if your shed is no more than 10 m² in area, under 2.4 m high, and no side longer than 5 m.

If your project ticks all those boxes, you can probably self-assess it. But tread carefully:

• If you exceed any one of those (bigger than 3m×3m, taller roof, etc.), you’ll need a private building certifier and council approval.
• Above the Tropic of Capricorn (most of North QLD), think cyclone ratings. Many local certifiers will insist on a cyclone-rated design kit even for small sheds.
• Never block waterways, drains or utility easements. Make sure the site is clear or get permission first.

Your shed company should point this out. Some even handle the paperwork or recommend a certifier. If they act like “Oh don’t worry about that,” take a step back. In Queensland it’s honestly better to get the approvals sorted – it saves heartache (and fines) if the weather turns ugly.

“You don’t need building approval if your shed is no more than 10 m² in plan area, no more than 2.4 m in height, and no longer than 5 m on any side.” – Brisbane City Council shed guidelines.

Delivery and Installation

Think logistics. A shed is a big delivery – make sure it’s included in the deal:

• Site Prep: Check if the company or you is responsible for the base. Most sheds need a flat concrete slab or compacted base. A true full-service shed company can often do this for you (for a fee) – worth considering in wet North QLD.
• Delivery Fees: Many Queensland shed companies serve most of the state, but remote delivery (think outback stations or islands) can cost extra. Ask upfront if your location has any surcharge.
• Lead Time: Custom sheds might take 4–8 weeks from order to ready. Kit sheds can be faster. Plan for delays (holiday seasons and cyclone season can push things back).
• Assembly: Does the crew unload and bolt it together, or do they leave it as a kit? The latter can be much cheaper but requires your DIY time. A great shed company will handle the whole install, anchor it, and show you it’s squared and sealed.

Get all these details in writing. A proper quote will list delivery and installation. If it’s vague (“installation extra”), get specifics. The last thing you want is the building truck at your gate with your shed – and then being told “you had to hire your own installer.”

Conclusion

Building a shed isn’t just about metal and bolts – it’s about trust. A good shed company will become your backyard’s best mate, not a mystery bill. When you do your homework (know your needs, compare quotes, check licenses), you avoid horror stories – like a dodgy shed turning into a kite in the first tropical storm.

At the end of the day, you want a strong, weatherproof space that makes your life easier (and maybe your neighbours a bit jealous). With the right partner, your backyard will gain a functional and stylish new space that stands up to Queensland’s sun, rain and even the occasional cyclone.

Go ahead: measure that space, gather a few written quotes, and pick the builder who listens. Enjoy making memories (and maybe a cold beer) in your shiny new shed – you’ve earned it!

Frequently Asked Questions