Overview

When you’ve settled on buying a shed, you need to know which mistakes to avoid so you don’t waste your time and money on a storage solution that isn’t suitable for your intended purposes. Why not use Smart Shed’s expertise in portable building construction to your advantage?

Our shed builders have put together this helpful guide outlining the most common errors to avoid when purchasing an outdoor storage building. From choosing the wrong size and skipping proper foundation prep to overlooking local by-laws and permits, we break it down in simple terms so it’s easier for you to choose a shed that truly fits your needs.

Introduction

While the benefits of a portable storage building are practically endless, they only hold true when the space you buy matches your goals for its use. Choose the wrong unit, and you could end up with more problems than solutions, still needing storage and now dealing with unexpected costs or limitations.

When you can’t afford for things to go wrong, it pays to learn from where others have missed the mark before you. With the right insight, you can avoid common pitfalls and make a smart purchase that gives you exactly what you need with no regrets about it.

Here are the top 6 most common shed-buying mistakes:

1. Choosing the Wrong Shed Size

This one catches more people off guard than you’d think. You figure you just need a little extra space. Somewhere to stash your lawn mower, a few storage bins, and maybe some tools. Fast forward a few months, and suddenly, that “little extra space” feels like a cramped closet with no wiggle room.

Choosing a shed that’s too small is like buying shoes a size too tight. Sure, things feel ok at first, but before long, you start to regret every step. On the flip side, going all out with a portable structure that’s too big can overwhelm your yard, drive up costs, and lead to permit issues, depending on your location.

How To Determine Your Ideal Shed Sizing

The best way to get shed sizing right is to be honest about how much space you need (not just today; you also need to look forward to the future). Think about how your storage needs might grow.

Are you planning to start a hobby requiring a workbench and moving space? Are you hoping to turn your shed into a tiny home office or garden station later? Maybe you’re tired of playing Tetris whenever you put something away. Taking a few minutes to map out what you’ll store, measure your space, and envision how you’ll move around inside your shed will save you a lot of headaches (and money) later.

2. Ignoring Moveable Shed Foundation Requirements

Most people who buy sheds focus on what’s above the ground (design, size, features) but forget to consider what’s underneath it. That’s where problems often begin. A portable shed still needs a solid, level foundation to sit on.

Skip this step, and you could deal with water damage, sagging floors, or a crooked structure sooner than you think. It’s tempting to assume a flat patch of lawn will do the trick, but soil shifts, water pools, and grass won’t provide the best long-term structural support. Without a properly prepared base, there’s a good chance your shed may not last as long or look as good as it should.

What’s the Best Foundation for a Portable Shed?

Before your delivery day arrives, it’s worth making sure you understand what kind of foundation works best for your situation. Depending on your shed’s size and purpose, concrete pads, gravel bases, and pressure-treated skids are a few solid options. If you have questions about leveling, slope requirements, and drainage, your shed supplier should be able to answer them once you give them more information about site conditions at your preferred installation location.

3. Failing To Check Local Bylaws and Permit Requirements Before Shed Installation

You’ve picked the perfect shed. It’s the right size, it fits your space, and the design is exactly what you wanted. However, there’s one big mistake that can throw your entire project off track: not checking your local bylaws and permit requirements.

Depending on where you live, there may be specific rules about what you can build, where you can place it, how tall it can be, and how close it can sit to your property line. Overlook these considerations, and you could be forced to remove or relocate your shed entirely. This is an expensive and frustrating outcome that’s easy to avoid.

Some municipalities require a permit for any shed over a specific square footage or height. Others may have zoning rules that dictate how far your shed must be from fences, trees, or other structures. Even if a permit isn’t required, confirming what’s allowed in your area before installation day is still a good idea.

Do You Need a Permit to Install a Shed?

It depends on the size and specs of your shed and any rules set by your local municipality. Each area has its own bylaws and building regulations, so it’s important to check with your local building department before proceeding.

Most municipalities don’t require a permit for small sheds (typically under 120 square feet and only one story) if they meet height limits and are installed away from property lines and other structures. However, once your shed exceeds this size, or if you plan to run electricity or plumbing to it, a permit is usually required.

Most shed-building companies are up-to-date on permitting, zoning requirements, and restrictions and will help you determine the following:

Maximum shed size allowed without a permit
Setback requirements from property lines, fences, and other buildings
Height restrictions for new storage building installations
Utility connection rules (for electricity, plumbing, etc.)
Zoning considerations (especially in rural or mixed-use areas)

4. Purchasing a Temporary Shed Based on Price Alone

We all love a good deal, but going for the cheapest portable storage option can backfire fast. Low-cost sheds may seem like a budget-friendly solution upfront. The downside is that they often lack the durability, weather resistance, and functionality you need.

You might save a few bucks at first, but if the structure starts to warp, leak, or fall apart after the first harsh season, you’ll end up spending more on repairs, replacements, or upgrades than if you invested in a higher-quality shed from the start. That’s not just for the shed—leaks can also affect the items you’re storing inside.

Rather than choosing based on price alone, think in terms of value. Look for materials made for long-term use in your climate, construction that’s built to last, warranties that protect your interests, and features that match your long-term needs.

How Much Will a New Shed Cost?

The cost of a new shed can vary widely. Pricing usually depends on your selected shed style, preferred customization features, and delivery requirements. Cost breakdowns should be clear and listed on the estimate you receive from your chosen provider.

Look over this document thoroughly, and don’t be afraid to ask questions to make sure you’re not signing up for hidden costs or surprises that could come back to bite you later.

Are Shed Financing Options Available?

Some local dealers offer budget-friendly shed financing options. When you phone to request an initial estimate, it doesn’t hurt to see if you qualify or ask for more information about the terms and conditions that will apply to your situation.

5. Overlooking Transportable Shed Customization Options

When you’re planning to use your transportable shed as a home office, the last thing you want is a dark, windowless box with a barn-style door. The beauty of a quality portable shed is that it’s functional and highly customizable. From the layout to the look, you can let your preferences lead the way.

Think about what matters most for your use case. Ask yourself if you need natural light for working during the day or if you want a specific entry style or color that matches your home or property. Since you can take your shed with you if you move, it’s worth investing in a design that fits your lifestyle now and down the road.

Customizing your shed’s window and door placements, size, exterior finish, and interior features will dramatically improve its usability and give you far more value for your money.

6. Bypassing Backyard Shed Security Features

When you’re planning a shed, it’s easy to focus on aesthetics and layout, but security should never be an afterthought. This is especially true when storing expensive tools, outdoor equipment, business inventory, or personal valuables inside. A shed that looks great but lacks proper protection is an open invitation for trouble.

Many basic models come with standard locks or latches, but they might not offer enough resistance against break-ins. Depending on your location and what you’re storing, you may want to upgrade to heavy-duty locking mechanisms, tamper-proof hinges, reinforced doors, and consider mounting motion-sensor lighting nearby.

Install a Shed That Solves Storage Problems Instead of Creating New Ones

Buying a shed should be a smart, stress-free upgrade, not a source of frustration. Now that you’re aware of the most common mistakes people make during this process, you’re in a much better position to choose a structure that truly fits your needs, supports your goals, and stands strong in varied weather conditions.

Every decision you make, from sizing and foundation prep to permits, customization, and security, influences your portable shed’s long-term value and performance. With the right plan (and builder), you can avoid setbacks and enjoy a durable, reliable storage solution that works for your home or business.

Speak with a Smart Shed specialist today for personalized guidance and expert support. We look forward to helping you get the movable shed that’s just right for you. Call us at (706) 405-4637, and don’t forget to ask us about our financing options.