Starting a home business can be a very rewarding experience, offering you the flexibility to work from home, avoid a long daily commute, and be your own boss. If you are considering starting a home business, it’s a good idea to convert an outbuilding into your workspace. Converting an outbuilding is a cost-effective way to create a designated workspace that allows you to work from home but is separate from your home. But if you don’t know where to start, the conversion process can be a challenging one. Keep reading for some top tips for converting your outbuilding into a thriving home business space.
Evaluate the Space
The first step involves evaluating the outbuilding’s space to determine if it is suitable for your business. Consider the size of the building, the ceiling height, natural light, ventilation, and electrical supply. For example, if you are considering using the outbuilding to start a microbrewery, you’ll need a clean-in-place system which will require adequate space along with access to electricity and water.
Check Building Codes
Before you begin any renovations, check with your local building codes and zoning regulations to ensure that you are compliant. Depending on your location, there may be some restrictions on the type of businesses that can operate from a residential property. It’s crucial that you obtain any necessary permits and ensure that your business meets all legal requirements.
Insulate the Building
An outbuilding might not always have the same level of insulation compared to your home. This is why it’s so important to insulate the building – it helps to regulate the temperature, reduce energy costs, and create a comfortable working environment for yourself and any employees you hire. The insulation will also help with soundproofing if you expect running your home business to generate a lot of noise.
Install Adequate Lighting
Any workspace needs good lighting in order to be run as effectively as possible. If there is not enough natural light getting to your outbuilding, then you may want to consider installing artificial lighting. Choose bright, energy-efficient bulbs that you can rely on to see clearly and reduce eye strain. You may also want to consider installing windows or skylights to bring in more natural light.
Upgrade the Electrical System
An outbuilding might not always have adequate electrical supply to power all your business equipment. It’s a good idea to hire a licensed electrician to assess the electrical system and upgrade it as needed. This could include installing additional outlets, adding a subpanel, or upgrading the circuit breaker, for example.
Secure the Building
You’ll want to make sure that your outbuilding is secure before you start adding things like work equipment or office furniture. It’s worth adding a security system with cameras and alarms to deter thieves and protect your business. Add deadbolts to windows and doors and install outdoor lighting to keep the perimeter illuminated.
Converting an outbuilding into a workspace can be a smart way to create a designated workplace that allows you to easily run a home business, but separate from your house.
