Shed vs garage vs workshop — what do you actually need?

A "shed" in Adelaide typically means light storage (garden, mower, bikes) — usually a Colorbond kit on a small slab. A "garage" is engineered for vehicle weight, has proper flooring and often a personal-access door. A "workshop" adds insulation, wiring, ventilation and durable flooring so you can spend hours in there in December without cooking. Prices scale accordingly — figure out use before you shop.

Real all-in cost by size and spec

Adelaide pricing spread as of Feb 2026. "Installed" means shed + slab + install labour — does NOT include electrical, insulation, roller door upgrades or council fees unless noted.

• Small garden shed (3m x 3m, Colorbond, on slab) — $2,800-$4,200
• Standard shed (6m x 3m, Colorbond) — $4,500-$7,500
• Single garage (6m x 3.5m, Colorbond, one roller door) — $9,000-$14,500
• Double garage/workshop (7m x 7m, insulated, electrical) — $22,000-$38,000
• Brick veneer detached garage (6m x 3.5m) — $18,000-$28,000
• Concrete slab (per m²) — $180-$260
• Electrical (10A power, LED lighting) — $1,800-$3,500
• Council development approval — $400-$1,400

SA council rules — setbacks, easements, and hidden costs

Adelaide councils each have their own detached-structure rules. Common catches: any shed over 15m² typically needs Development Approval, most councils require 900mm boundary setback, and many older Adelaide properties have stormwater easements running through the backyard that you legally can't build over (Prospect, Norwood, Unley are particularly strict). Always ask the shed supplier to check your title for easements before quoting — they usually don't, and it becomes your problem.

How to shortlist a shed/garage builder

Two paths: buy from a major kit supplier (Fair Dinkum, Best Sheds, Ranbuild, Stratco) and have their preferred installer erect it, or engage a builder to do a fully-custom job. Kit sheds are ~40% cheaper but you'll get the same shed as your neighbour.

• Get quotes from at least 2 kit suppliers and 1 custom builder for the same footprint
• Confirm the wind rating (SA metro N2, Hills N3, coastal C1-C2)
• Ask for slab spec in writing — thickness, mesh grade, edge beam
• Verify SA building licence (BLD) for any structure over 15m² or over 3m tall
• HBCF Building Indemnity Insurance mandatory for jobs over $12,000
• Get the roller-door quality/brand specified — cheap doors fail within 3-5 years in Adelaide dust

Frequently asked questions