Building a Studio Part 1

First steps in the process of building a studio.

1. Do you have a location to build a studio on your property?

2. Does the zoning laws in your town/city allow you to build a studio on your property? I suggest you contact your town zoning administrator to find out. If you live in a HOA, you will need to check their rules and regulations regarding building a studio.

3. Have a property survey done. You will want to know your property boundary and setbacks. If you want running water and a bathroom in your studio you need to either be able to connect to existing water/sewer lines or have a septic survey done to see if you can install a septic system and well.

4. What is your budget? How much can you spend on building a studio? Once you have established this you can start to look at what options are available in your area.

5. Research. What kind of building can you get for your budget? How much of the building process do you want to be involved in? You can hire a company that does everything from start to finish. Or you can act as your own general contractor and hire the builder and all the subs that go along with that (site prep work, concrete, electric, insulation, heating/cooling, flooring, drywall, finish carpentry, paint, and anything else that needs to be done). Also, you need to make sure all your sub-contractors have insurance and get refences for each one.
Being your own general contractor can save you money but there is a lot more work involved because you need to research, compare building quotes, and decide who to hire each step of the way.

6. Zoning Permit. Now you need to take your building plan to your town and apply to get a permit to build your building. You may also need a permit to operate your business in the space such as a cottage industry business or home occupancy business so you will need to apply for this as well. Your town zoning administrator will be able to help you with this. Once your application is filed you will be scheduled to have hearing with the town zoning board. Bring a copy of your building plans, your deed and a map of your property showing any easements or rights of way.