Start with use, not brand. Record what will be stored, the site exposure, condensation risk, security need, future modifications and who will maintain the structure. Those facts determine which material and build specification are suitable.
Compare the two material systems
| Question | Timber | Steel |
|---|---|---|
| Moisture management | Ask how timber is treated, how cut ends are protected and what re-treatment is required. | Ask about ventilation, condensation control, corrosion protection and contact with the base. |
| Modification | Shelves and internal fixings may be simpler, but confirm fixing points and structural limits. | Confirm approved fixing methods before drilling panels or frames; changes may affect written cover. |
| Maintenance | Record coating, roof-covering and inspection requirements. | Record coating repairs, fastener checks, drainage and ventilation requirements. |
| Site fit | Check base, floor ventilation, splashback and access for panel erection. | Check anchoring, base tolerances, door clearance and access for assembly. |
Write one brief for every quote
- External dimensions, internal usable dimensions and door opening.
- Material and finish, including the exact cladding or panel specification.
- Floor construction, load assumptions and whether the floor is included.
- Roof build-up, drainage, ventilation and condensation provisions.
- Base design, tolerances and who is responsible for preparing and checking it.
- Delivery access, lifting or carrying constraints, installation and removal of packaging.
- Anchoring, locks, glazing and any electrical or insulation work, itemised separately.
Ask for evidence, not adjectives
Words such as “premium”, “heavy duty” and “maintenance free” are not a specification. Ask for measurable panel or cladding details, floor construction, roof material, fastener type, treatment process, base requirements and installation instructions. Keep the product description that formed part of your purchase record.
Contract and deposit checks
The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission guidance on deposits recommends confirming the exact product or service, deposit amount, balance date and delivery or completion date. Ask whether any part is non-refundable and get the conditions in writing before paying.
If installation is included, distinguish the goods from the service. Record who is responsible for the base, assembly, anchoring, snagging and any subcontracted work. The CCPC explains that goods must match the sales contract and that services must meet the agreed standard.
Read warranty wording without treating it as an endorsement
Compare the written exclusions, claim process, covered parts, labour, transport, maintenance obligations and the legal entity providing the cover. A headline duration does not show the scope. The CCPC guarantee and warranty guidance states that optional warranties do not replace statutory consumer rights.
Five records to keep
- The dated specification and final written quote, including VAT and every extra charge.
- The order confirmation, drawings, colour and agreed product description.
- Deposit terms, receipt, balance schedule and delivery date.
- Base and installation instructions plus photographs before and after installation.
- Warranty or guarantee wording and all correspondence about defects or delays.
Next step
Use the total-cost checklist to compare the same scope, the planning route before committing to a site, and the business-verification checklist before paying a deposit.
Scope note: This page is general consumer information. It does not rank products or suppliers and does not establish suitability, durability, planning status or warranty cover for a specific shed.