Browse Forums General Discussion 1 May 17, 2015 6:07 pm Hi guys, We are looking at converting our shed, which is about 10 sqm in size, into a teenagers retreat, with a bed, desk, wardrobe etc. The shed is on a slab, has electricity, a window and is a few metres away from the main house. I was just wondering if we are able to convert our shed into a teenagers retreat and if there are any approvals required? We currently live in south Australia. Regards, Robbie Re: Converting a shed into a teenagers retreat 3May 18, 2015 11:38 am It would have to comply with the BCA now NCC for a habitable space - 2400mm high ceilings, distance from your side boundary etc etc. What is the shed made of? Roof ,walls etc. Stewie Re: Converting a shed into a teenagers retreat 4May 18, 2015 11:53 am The shed is made from colorbond (roof and walls) with guttering and sits on a slab The main purpose of the "shed" is for my son and his mates to hang out, play xbox etc. Re: Converting a shed into a teenagers retreat 5May 18, 2015 12:04 pm I did it to a 9x12 shed but added plumbing as well. It's easy to do but like above can't be habitable ie someone live in it. From what you're suggesting seems fine. What I did was went around and sealed all gaps at bottom so no pests could get in Then used a 5mm wood veneer sheet as internal wall cladding as it didn't require finishing and was cheaper than plaster. Just screwed them to the metal frame and used plastic strips to hide the joins. I didn't bother doing the ceiling but could do the same for that if you like. Floors we tiled half and did carpet for the other half Re: Converting a shed into a teenagers retreat 6May 18, 2015 12:32 pm Hi guys, Thanks for the feedback. I just called my local council, and they didn’t seem to “strict” with regards to the intentions of the shed i.e. turning it into a teenagers retreat, tv, xbox, bed etc. He actually brought up the term “man cave” which many Australians have, but technically they not legal as they are “habitable” yet they seem to turn a blind eye to it. The worst case scenario would be a complaint from neighbor which could lead to them having it checked out, then asking me to remove the TV, couch, bed etc. There are no major fines or penalties. He did suggest to me that my shed is properly ventilated (windows and door), but suggested I put in a smoke alarm… so this seems like a “grey” area. Mmmmm.. do I go-ahead or not? Cheers, Robbie Re: Converting a shed into a teenagers retreat 7May 18, 2015 2:06 pm Get the teenager to do the conversion himself Re: Converting a shed into a teenagers retreat 9May 18, 2015 5:42 pm MrBee I did it to a 9x12 shed but added plumbing as well. Then used a 5mm wood veneer sheet as internal wall cladding as it didn't require finishing and was cheaper than plaster. Just screwed them to the metal frame and used plastic strips to hide the joins. I didn't bother doing the ceiling but could do the same for that if you like. Do this need to be waterproofed? I was thinking doing what you did, but using MDF coated with a primer and paint (both sides) Re: Converting a shed into a teenagers retreat 10May 19, 2015 10:17 am Absolutely do it, for the sheer fact your teenager will love it! Re: Converting a shed into a teenagers retreat 11May 20, 2015 10:43 pm If it's for your teenager and you're comfortable with him being in there then go for it, convert without approval, but I wouldn't be renting it out without approval, that could get you into big trouble if something went wrong (ie fire etc). I think I know the answer but just checking to see if anyone has had experience with it. I want to build a small 20 square metre retreat in my backyard, it will have a… 0 7983 2 7810 If I hire a contractor to convert a window to a sliding door will I need to show them Council approval paperwork? That is, if I want to take a risk of carrying out the… 0 625 |