Think a prefab garage is just a quick fix? Think again.
Skip the right questions, and you could end up with a space that’s too small, over budget, or not even legal in your area.
Before you buy, ask smarter. This guide gives you the must-ask questions so you avoid surprises and buy with confidence.
Questions About Your Needs and Usage
Before you compare prices or materials, get clear on your purpose. The most common mistake buyers make? Jumping into options without knowing what they actually need. Here are the questions to ask yourself first:
What will I use the garage for?
- Vehicle storage: Will it house one car, two, or even an RV?
- Workshop or hobby space: Need room for tools, benches, or storage systems?
- Extra room: Planning a gym, office, or guest space?
Your intended use directly affects the size, layout, and features you’ll need.
How much space do I realistically need?
Think long-term, not just today.
- What are the dimensions of your current vehicles or equipment?
- Will you need space for shelving, overhead storage, or future upgrades?
Tip: Measure everything then add extra space for walkways and access.
Do I need insulation, electricity, plumbing, or HVAC?
- Insulation matters if you live in a cold or hot climate or plan to spend time inside.
- Electricity is a must for lighting, tools, or charging stations.
- Plumbing could be a game changer if you need a sink or bathroom.
- HVAC makes sense for year-round comfort in office or workshop use.
Asking these questions now helps avoid expensive add-ons later.
Questions About the Garage Structure
Once you know what you need, dive into how the garage is built. This determines durability, flexibility, and value.
What materials are used: steel, wood, or vinyl?
Steel (metal garages)
- Cost-effective and installs quickly often in under a day.
- Extremely durable: resists pests, rot, fire, and harsh weather. Low upkeep required.
- Rust can be an issue in damp or coastal areas but modern coatings help prevent that.
Wood (especially engineered wood like LP® SmartSide®)
- Offers classic, customizable aesthetics that blend with homes.
- Requires regular painting, pest control, and moisture protection.
- Engineered options (e.g., LP® SmartSide®) resist decay and pests but still need upkeep in wet climates.
Is the garage customizable in layout, features, and finishes?
- Many manufacturers now offer 3D design tools or builders to tailor size, color, doors, and windows.
- Steel garages often allow architectural accents and siding that match your home.
What’s the expected lifespan and warranty?
- Steel garages can last well over 100 years with proper care.
- Warranties vary; common offerings include 50-year limited warranties on siding or roofing, and lifetime warranties on metal panels or shingles.
- For example, manufacturers may offer “…as long as you own the garage” lifetime warranties, or limited lifetime coverage on roofing and siding.
Why These Questions Matter
| Parameter | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Material | Affects durability, budget, maintenance needs |
| Customization | Ensures it fits your space and your aesthetic |
| Warranty & Lifespan | Gives peace of mind and future cost savings |
Questions About Installation and Site Prep
Before installation begins, understanding what’s involved in preparing the site is essential. Let’s break down the most important questions and what real sources say.
Is site preparation included in the quoted price?
- Some providers include site prep like clearing and leveling in their package, while others expect you to handle it separately .
- Always ask: What exactly is included? This helps you avoid surprise costs.
Do I need to pour a concrete slab, or are there alternative foundation options?
Different foundation types suit different needs:
- Crushed stone (gravel) pad: A budget-friendly, effective option. A 1-inch layer of crushed stone about 3–5 inches thick is leveled and compacted, with at least 1 foot extra on all sides for drainage .
- Concrete slab: Offers a solid, durable base with excellent support and less attraction for pests .
- Footers: Recommended for larger or plumbing-ready garages. Trench (16–18″ wide, 12–24″ deep) filled with concrete, spaced every 8–10 feet, provides strong support .
- Hardpack base: For smaller structures, compacted hardpack over a geotextile (road fabric) can work. Ideal for single-piece units.
How long does installation take, and who handles it?
- Some sellers offer full installation, while others deliver the unit unfitted, expecting you to hire installers separately .
Confirm:
- Lead time from order to delivery.
- Who manages installation , the company or a contractor you hire.
What about drainage, overhead, or underground obstacles?
- Choose a site with smart drainage and proper grading.
A well-draining, level base prevents water pooling and foundation damage. One Canadian assembly guide urges selecting a “suitable location for your pre-engineered structure with proper drainage and level ground,” plus clearing the site of obstacles for smooth setup.
- Use the right base to avoid moisture issues.
Gravel or crushed rock is often preferred. For example, Canadian mini‑shed suppliers recommend a compacted gravel pad 4–5 inches thick and level larger than the building footprint to reduce shifting and support drainage.
- Be mindful of overhead obstacles.
While Canadian-specific sources are scarce on this point, it’s universally important to clear overhead obstructions like tree limbs or utility lines that might block delivery routes or crane access.
- Locate and avoid underground utilities.
In Canada, underground utilities (e.g., storm sewer, water, hydro, telecommunications) are common. You should check with local utility providers or municipal services to map these lines before digging or setting stakes.
What clearance or access is needed for delivery?
- Ensure enough space around the site (at least 1 foot) to maneuver the garage into place .
- Confirm delivery vehicle access: driveway width, height clearance, and proximity for unloading .
Questions About Local Regulations
Buying a prefab garage? Understanding local rules is a non-negotiable step; it can mean the difference between a smooth build and costly delays or legal headaches.
Does this prefab garage require permits in my area?
- Ontario (e.g., Ottawa, Norfolk County): Most accessory buildings over 10 m² (108 ft²) require a building permit .In Ottawa, sheds or garages under 15 m² (approx. 160 ft²) without plumbing may not require one
- British Columbia (e.g., Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen): A building permit is needed for buildings over 10 m² (108 ft²) .
- Alberta (e.g., Lethbridge): Permit needed unless the structure is under 10 m² (100 ft²) .
What permits might be needed?
- A Development Permit may be required in some municipalities to confirm proper placement and zoning compliance .
- A Building Permit ensures safety and structural compliance. Many regions also demand specific submission documents such as site plans, elevations, or engineer-stamped drawings .
Are there zoning rules or setback restrictions?
Lethbridge, Alberta requires accessory buildings:
- In side or rear yards only,
- At least 0.6 m (2 ft) from the side/rear property line,
- At least 1.2 m (4 ft) from the main building, and no taller than 5.18 m (17 ft)
Jasper National Park (Alberta) requires at least 0.9 m clearance from property lines and 1.5 m from the primary building, adheres to site coverage limits, and prohibits utilities overhead or underground in the building footprint .
Are inspections or plan reviews required?
In Ottawa, permits require:
- A construction application,
- Permit fee,
- Scaled drawings (including truss and joist layouts),
- Inspections at key stages like foundation and framing
Wasaga Beach, ON mandates a site grading plan, engineered drawings, and submission of a digital site plan with setbacks. Costs start at $155 and may include road occupation permits depending on size .
Why these rules matter
Failing to check local requirements can lead to:
- Fines or stop-work orders,
- Denial of building permits or insurance problems,
- Take-downs and rebuilds,
- Safety and structural concerns
Quick Summary Table
| Region / Jurisdiction | Permit Threshold & Zoning Rules |
|---|---|
| Ontario (e.g., Ottawa) | Accessory buildings >10 m² require permits; detailed submissions & inspections needed |
| BC (e.g., RDOS) | Permit required for buildings >10 m²; unconditioned small garages may be exempt |
| Alberta (e.g., Lethbridge) | Permit required >10 m²; setbacks, heights, and location rules apply |
| Jasper National Park, Alberta | Requires both Development & Building Permits; strict coverage and setback rules |
| Wasaga Beach, ON | Detailed drawings, grading plan, and fees required even for smaller garages |
Questions About Costs and Financing
Money matters, getting clear on costs and exploring funding options helps you avoid surprises and keep your budget in check.
What’s the typical cost per square foot?
- In Canada, a turn-key detached prefab garage runs about $35 to $60 per square foot, depending on finish quality and location.
That means a 500‑sq‑ft garage might range from $17,500 to $30,000.
What should be included in the quoted price?
When requesting quotes, be sure they itemize:
- Materials (walls, roof, doors, insulation)
- Delivery and installation fees
- Foundation work or site prep
- Permits, design plans, and inspections
- Any add-ons like lighting, HVAC, or electric wiring
- Tax, deposit amount, and payment schedule
What about “hidden” or extra fees?
- Always clarify if quotes include permits or if these are extra.
- Ask how much the deposit is and when the remaining balance is due.
- Confirm whether the quote includes provincial sales tax, utility hookups, or site prep.
- In Nova Scotia, Superior Garages includes permit costs in the quoted price and handles submissions.
- Compare this approach with companies that price out only the structure and then add extras afterwards.
Absolutely. Financing helps make a prefab garage more affordable. Here’s how Canadian buyers can explore options:
Is Financing an Option?
Absolutely. Financing helps make a prefab garage more affordable.
Questions About the Company
Before signing any deal, vetting the company you’re buying from is crucial. Here are must‑ask questions and why they matter:
How long has the company been in business?
Experience often reflects reliability.
Established companies tend to have smoother processes and stronger customer support.
Are there verified reviews or testimonials?
Feedback from past customers is invaluable.
Ask for photos or case studies of completed garages similar to yours.
What kind of after-sales support or maintenance do you offer?
Support doesn’t end at purchase.
Inquire about help with permits, warranty service, maintenance tips, or parts availability. Transparent companies will clearly explain what support they offer post-installation.
What is the current lead time and when does it start?
Timing matters.
Can you send me an itemized quote that shows each feature’s cost?
Detail matters.
An itemized quote breaks down costs for materials, installation, delivery, permits, utilities, and extras. Knowing what’s included and what isn’t prevents surprises later.
Is delivery included?
Hidden fees can inflate costs.
You need clarity on whether the quoted cost includes delivery.
Will you provide plans if needed, and is there a charge?
Necessary for permits.
Blueprints and structural drawings are often required for permitting. Confirm if plans are included or offered at an extra cost :
“Will You Be Able to Provide Plans if They Are Needed? If So, How Much Would That Be?”
How long will my quote be valid?
Market prices fluctuate.
Quotes can expire quickly. It’s wise to ask:
“How Long Will My Quote Be Valid?”
This gives you time to compare options and plan installations without rushing.
Decision Support Tools
Trying to keep everything straight? These tools help you plan, compare, and visualize so you can pick your prefab garage with confidence and ease.
Smart Budget Checklist & Cost Guide
Budgeting for your garage shouldn’t feel like guesswork. That’s why we’ve created our own Prefab Garage Cost Guide to help you plan with confidence.
Municipality Permit & Zoning Worksheet
- Although mostly aimed at modular homes, Ontario’s government provides a planning worksheet outlining key permit steps, zoning checks, and municipal requirements. This can be easily adapted for prefab garages.
- Use it to track required documents, approval status, and submission timelines.
Conclusion
Buying a prefab garage is more than a quick purchase; it’s a long-term investment in your home and lifestyle. By asking the right questions about your needs, the structure, installation, permits, costs, and the company itself, you’ll eliminate surprises and make a decision you feel confident about.
At Metal Pro™ Buildings, we’re here to make that process simple. From transparent cost guides and financing options to customizable steel garage kits built for Canadian weather, we provide everything you need to move forward with peace of mind.
Ready to take the next step? Get your personalized prefab garage quote today, and start planning a space that works for you now and for years to come.
