Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do I need Planning permission?

The short answer is “It depends”. Most garden buildings including our abodes can be built within permitted development rights and should not need planning permission. However, this is not always the case. If you are unsure you can either talk to our planning consultants or visit the government planning web site.

Abodes being used in the leisure market as holiday homes will almost certainly require planning permission and we will help support you through this process.

2. How long will it take to build?

One of the main advantages of this type of build is the short time from our team arriving on site to you being able to move in. Our experts typically will be able hand over the keys within 4-6 weeks providing there have been no significant issues with access or the weather.

3. How much input will I have to the design of my abode?

At abode4 we pride ourselves in making sure we tailor each abode to its owner, we have numerous options across the abode product range to ensure the interior and exterior are styled to your taste including wonderful kitchens from Magnet, and all the options to suit your lifestyle. Contact us to chat about what options are available.

4. What is included in the price?

Delivery, construction and project management for the standard model are all included in the quoted prices. See pricing Information for more detail.

VAT is not included in the price as depending on the situation it will not always be chargeable.

5. Who will do the work?

Abode4 will perform the initial site survey and then once you decide to go ahead our experienced production team who have over 20 years experience of in the timber frame sector will undertake all the work to your satisfaction. Tea and biscuits are optional....

6. Do your prices include foundations?

Our abodes are designed to sit on minimal pile foundations that are easy on the environment and cause less site disruption. These are included in the price and will be appropriate for most locations. However if your site requires levelling or soil conditions require another type of foundation this will be priced on a case by case basis.

7. Drainage?

Will usually be able to be linked to the existing system, if not possible we can investigate an alternative, this is assessed on the free site survey.

8. Access?

Ideally we would access the site directly however the modular design means that it can be possible to hand carry materials to some locations.

9. What about building regulations?

We have already worked with our production partner to ensure that we already comply or exceed all the current regulations. All our abodes are built to the same high standard regardless of their intended use. This is not the case for all garden / outside buildings that will not be usable all year round and may not last as long due to a lower standard of construction and insulation.

10. What guarantees are available with my property?

Each Property will benefit from a Residential NHBC guarantee. All wiring and plumbing works are installed to the same high standard you would expect from a brand new house. This also gives you the reassurance that the abode will be enjoyed long after whoever moves in.

11. Can I get a mortgage?

Yes. As our abodes are built to full building regs it is possible to fund your project by means of a mortgage. There are a number of options available even in these current times. If you need some professional advice please feel free to take advantage of our free financial assessment from our independent financial advisor.

12. Is Council Tax payable?

If your abode is ancillary to your existing property then you will not have to pay separate Council Tax. If you rent out your property for a period you will pay rates rather than council tax.

13. Is an abode a good investment?

We think so. Not only can you get the additional living space you require it will add value to your existing property. Subject to planning permission you may also be able to sell the property as a new independent dwelling or it could be used as alternative source of income. We pride ourselves in the high specifications of our abodes, meaning that the running costs in terms of heating will be low, being good news for your pocket as well as the environment.

14. Can I use it all year round?

Most defiantly!! Our building spec will ensure you are cosy in the winter and cool in the summer.