FAQs | Stockman Shepherd Huts

These are just some of the questions we are often asked about our Shepherd Huts. If your query isn't covered here please don't hesitate to contact us and we will be happy to provide an answer.

Do you need planning permission?

In most cases when your hut is being used as a garden retreat, guest bedroom or office space, then you probably don't require planning as it classes as being "incidental to the enjoyment of the dwelling". However, if you want to use it for a commercial venture such as a campsite, or a B&B on land which you are currently not using for this purpose, you may need to apply for planning under "material change of use". If you are at all unsure then it would be wise to check with your local planning authority. They should be able and willing to advise you whether you need to make a formal application. For more information about planning permission and to access contact details for your local planning office visit: planningportal.co.uk. Sometimes other factors, such as whether or not you live in a listed property or a conservation area may have an influence, but this can usually be cleared up with a quick call to your local planning office. If you do require planning permission, then it's a reasonably simple process which takes up to about 8 to 13 weeks. You may also apply for a Lawful Development Certificate, which will give you peace of mind, and can be shown that your hut does not require planning in the eyes of the law.

Are the huts full insulated?

Yes all our huts are fully insulated with sheep wool.
For thousands of years sheep have been able to survive the elements using their wool coats to protect them from extreme cold and heat. Due to the crimped nature of wool fibres, they form millions of tiny air pockets that trap air, helping to provide a thermal barrier.
Thermal conductivity is the ability for heat to pass from one side of a material through to the other. It is measured in W/mK, where a lower value signifies a better insulator. Sheep wool's thermal conductivity has been measured at between 0.035 – 0.04 W/mK, whereas mineral wool has a typical thermal conductivity of 0.044 W/mK.

Do you get a warranty on your hut?

Yes our warranty covers cast iron chassis, wheels and external structure. Exceptions are fair wear and tear, accidental or deliberate damage, use of the hut for hire, freezing, fire or any post-purchase modifications that are not made by us. This warranty extends for a period of ten years and only to the first purchaser of the hut. In each case this is not transferable.

How manoeuvrable are they? So I can move it?

Yes, they are manoeuvrable as they have cast iron wheels on a turning plate, we can provide/sell an A frame draw bar with which they can be towed by a 4x4 vehicle.

Is there a range of sizes and options available?

Our huts start at 7ft (2.1m) wide by 12ft (3.6m) long, but can be up to 9ft (2.7m) wide by 20ft (6.1m) long.

Can I have an en-suite or kitchen in my hut?

Yes, all of our huts are designed around your requirements. Sizes can be increased and varied with your own specific designs. We also build to order shower/washroom huts, which can stand near your main hut.

How will you keep me posted on progress of my hut?

From the beginning of your order we will regularly send you pictures and updates via e-mail, often you may want to make changes along the way, which is not a problem and with regular contact this makes this much easier all round.
You are also welcome to come and visit on site whenever you wish during the build.

Can I just buy a chassis to build my own hut on?

Yes - we can provide the chassis only, for customers to build their own huts on. See here for more details.

What is the best base for my hut to sit on?

You can sit the hut on paving slabs bed on a mortar base. We can let you know the distance between the wheels so you can get this ready before the hut arrives. Some customers have placed a concrete slab sunk into the ground or even railway sleepers. Depending on the condition of the ground, you can always just leave it directly on the ground. We are always happy to come out on site and make recommendations, as well as providing this extra service for you.

Delivery Costs?

Delivery costs vary from location to location, depending on your order and the site in which the hut is going. We are able to provide this service via a hi-ab lorry or you can make arrangements to have your hut collected.

Are the Tin roofs noisy? (rain)

No, the huts are so well insulated that you will only hear a muffled patter.

What if my site is difficult to access?

In the instances where the locations are difficult to access for the hut to be delivered, we will build on site. Although this takes a bit longer this is all taken into account when you make your order. We also offer flat pack Shepherd Huts.

How does drainage work?

There are various options when it comes to drainage each site will be unique, so we are happy to visit and advise. The huts can be linked to the house drains, or cess pit. Or you could have the option of a compost toilet which can be placed in close proximity of your hut.

How do I pay for my hut?

Orders are accepted on receipt of a deposit, we then start work on your hut and give you an idea of lead time. The remainder of the balance is to be paid 5 working days before delivery.

What about disabled access?

We can customise each hut to cater for disabled access, the doors have a minimum clearing opening width of 800mm, ramps should have a clear width of at least 1.5 metres, with a preferred gradient of 1;20.
Please talk to us about disability access and we will design a hut that will cater for you.