Get started turning your backyard shed into a guest house by prioritizing your guests needs and what you can afford to do. Do you want to make up the shed with just a bed and some warmth so people will have a place to sleep? Do you want to make your shed a full service vacation stay, with full amenities? How many people will your shed accommodate? These are all questions that should be answered before you start in on your project.

Once you’ve decided if you’re going to add electrical or plumbing and any outside additions, you’ll need to check with your city’s building department to see if you need any permits. You may also need to check with the county. If you have an HOA, check with them, as well.

Electricity

Most likely you will have chosen to install electricity, at the very least. It’s a pretty basic necessity for most people in the evening, unless you happen to have a family who loves to camp or has natural night vision. The Old Hickory Manchester office is wired like an RV so just plug and go!

These days, with laptops and charging stations, your guests are sure to want a place to plug in. Make sure you install enough electrical outlets for the amount of guests you’ll typically have in the guest house. Don’t forget to make sure your wi-fi reaches all the way out there, as well.

Windows

Windows are an absolute necessity for your guest house. If your shed isn’t already outfitted with at least one window, you’ll need to install one, but ideally, at least two. Two windows across from each other will create extra light and additional airflow. Speaking of airflow, with an additional window, you’ll be able to install a window A/C unit for the summertime, so your guests can be comfy. In the winter consider using an electric fireplace that pushes out some heat! Make sure you have dedicated outlets for these!

Insulation and Plumbing

Plumbing and insulation up next as bonuses, but depending on climate, insulation may not be a necessity. Insulation can be easy to add if you have a pre-made shed. Blown insulation will do the trick and make your job much simpler.

Some sheds have open framing. This can also make insulation installation simple. Install your insulation and then put up some drywall to finish up the job.

If you plan on insulating, make sure you install your plumbing pipes before you insulate.

If you are planning on installing a toilet or sink, make sure you plan this out carefully, depending on sleeping arrangements and food storage. For toilets, there are a variety of options. You can use something as simple as a portable toilet or something a little more stable like a pre-fab toilet for a motor home.

Personalize Your Shed/Guest House to Make it Feel Welcoming

Once you’ve done all the basics, make sure that you make your guest house feel warm and inviting.

Put in the bed or beds and if you have room, put a small couch or some soft chairs and maybe a lamp or two, in the living space. A nice rug and some artwork on the walls will spruce it up. A nice paint job will really tie the room together. And if you can, put up some amenities like a television, And voila! You are the owner of a guest house. Just hope that it’s not too comfortable that they overstay their welcome!