Outbuilding Cost Guides

Outbuildings refer to any building that is free standing and not attached to your main home. This could include a greenhouse, pool house, shed , gazebo, or barn. One thing that most outbuildings (although not all) have in common that makes them simpler and less expensive to build than a home, is that most of them do not have foundations. The types of outbuildings that do have foundations, tend to have only a simple cement slab foundation, rather than the type that sits below ground level. For this reason, outbuildings can be constructed more inexpensively and faster than an addition to your home or a new building with an excavated foundation.

Finished Buildings

The single largest cost factor is size. The larger the building the more you will pay in both labor and materials. But once you have established the size, other major cost factors would be the level at which you want the building "finished". For example, a garage building or workshop may not need anything more than drywall or a cement floor, whereas a pool house may require indoor finishing, plumbing for showers and bathrooms, heat, furniture for relaxing after a swim, flooring wall covering and windows.   Continue Reading
  • Build a Barn, Shed or Playhouse Costs
    Most homeowners spent between:
    $1,745 - $4,447
    Average cost:
    $2,965
    Low cost:
    $490
     
    High cost:
    $6,500
  • Clear Land or Prepare a Construction Site Costs
    Most homeowners spent between:
    $1,254 - $4,202
    Average cost:
    $2,728
    Low cost:
    $350
     
    High cost:
    $8,000
  • Repair a Shed, Barn, or Playhouse Costs
    Most homeowners spent between:
    $428 - $1,098
    Average cost:
    $722
    Low cost:
    $150
     
    High cost:
    $1,960

Select your Outbuilding project

A good assumption to follow is that the more your outbuilding resembles the level of finishing required in your home, the more expensive it will be. If your ultimate desire is to have a completely finished pool house or guesthouse this may be similar to costs of building another home. As daunting as that may feel, it is also good to keep in mind that additional buildings on your property can greatly increase your home's value. And the more your second building resembles a home, the greater possibility hat it could be considered as a potential rental income generator.

Pre-fabricated Structures

The complexity of the building will also play a role in how expensive it will be. A simple rectangular structure is not only easier to build but often, when it comes to sheds, playhouses and storage units, they don't even have to be constructed at all, but can be purchased as pre-fabricated units that just require installation.
A good rule of thumb when it comes to price is that the more customization you want, the more expensive it will be. A pre-fabricated building kit can vary in price based on size, complexity, quality of materials used and brand name. With a small amount of online research you can discover the best brands and styles of pre-fabricated building kits.

Building Permits

Building a second structure onto your existing property will most certainly require building permits. Speak with your contractor about obtaining the correct permits as every city has specific rules about building on your existing property, and proximity from your current home or the surrounding streets.
In addition, if you live in a community with a Homeowners Association, you will most likely need to get permission to build anything in addition to any city permits needed.

Share your cost experience

Help others plan and budget for their projects

Cost Guides

Carpet Patching Cost Cost of Flagstone Patio Cost to Install Bamboo Flooring Cost to Remove Popcorn Ceiling Door Installation Cost Drain Tile Installation Cost Earthquake Retrofitting Flooring Costs Flooring Installation Prices Garage Door Repair Cost Garage Door Springs Repair Home Warranty Coverage How Much is a Pallet of Sod How to Build a Staircase Lawn Care Companies New Kitchen Appliances Paint for Appliances Plumbing Costs Recessed Lighting Installation Resurfacing Asphalt Driveway Cost Sunroom Additions Swimming Pool Maintenance