Welcome to

Inclad Steel Buildings

Frequently Asked Questions

Planning & Regulations

Do I need planning permission for a steel frame building?

In many cases, yes – but some agricultural and commercial steel buildings fall under Permitted Development rights. The exact answer depends on the size, use, and location of your building. We can advise and help with applications if required.

What are permitted development rights for steel buildings?

Permitted Development (PD) allows certain agricultural and commercial buildings to be built without full planning permission, subject to strict size and location limits. Agricultural buildings under 465m² on land over 5 hectares usually qualify.

Can you help with planning applications and prior approval?

Yes. We regularly assist clients with planning, prior notification, and lawful development certificates, providing the drawings and specifications needed for council approval.

How close to a boundary can I build a steel building?

This depends on the building type. For commercial PD rights, heights and distances are restricted near boundaries. For domestic use, buildings within 2m of a boundary must be under 2.5m high. We’ll review your site and advise the best approach.

Are steel agricultural buildings covered by permitted development?

Yes, provided they meet the criteria: used solely for agriculture, under 465m², and on land over 5 hectares. A prior notification must still be submitted to the council before construction begins.

Do commercial steel buildings need planning permission?

Small extensions and new buildings on existing industrial sites may be allowed under PD. However, most commercial projects require either prior approval or full planning permission.

Will I need building regulations approval?

Yes, in most cases. Building regulations cover structural integrity, fire safety, and insulation. We provide structural calculations and drawings to support applications.

Can I get a lawful development certificate for my building?

Yes. Even if your building qualifies under Permitted Development, it’s wise to obtain a certificate of lawfulness. This protects you legally and avoids issues when selling or refinancing your property.

Design & Customisation

What sizes of steel frame buildings can you supply?

We manufacture and install buildings in virtually any size – from small domestic garages to large industrial warehouses. All designs are bespoke to your requirements.

Can you design bespoke buildings to suit my site?

Absolutely. Every building is designed to suit your intended use, available space, and budget. We create CAD drawings and structural plans for each project.

What roof styles are available (mono-pitch, apex, curved)?

Most customers choose an apex (gable) or mono-pitch roof. We also supply curved and custom designs if required. Roof type depends on use, aesthetics, and planning considerations and budget.

Can I add roller doors, personnel doors, or windows?

Yes. We offer a full range of access options including roller shutters, sectional doors, sliding doors, and personnel/fire exit doors. Windows, rooflights, and ventilation can also be added.

Do you offer insulated or uninsulated options?

Yes. Uninsulated (single skin) is ideal for storage, while insulated composite panels or built-up systems are recommended for workshops, livestock, or commercial use.

Can the steel frame be extended in the future?

. Steel frames are modular, meaning we can extend or adapt your building at a later date if your needs change.we keep your design model and drawings on record so if in the future we can access the data and use this to design the extension to the building.

Do you provide drawings for planning or building control?

Yes.We provide full sets of drawings 2d and 3d for each project, We can provide structural calculations for planning, building control, and engineering sign-off if required.

Cost & Quotes

How much does a steel frame building cost per square metre?

Because every project is different. The size, height, design, location, access, and features (like doors, windows, or insulation) all affect the cost. A simple £/m² rate would be misleading, so we price each job individually to give you the most accurate and fair quote

What factors affect the price of a steel building?

Size, height, roof type, insulation, number of doors/windows, site access, and foundation requirements all affect price.

Do you provide free quotes and site visits?

Yes. We provide free no-obligation quotes and can arrange a site visit to assess your requirements.

Is there a deposit required to place an order?

Yes. We typically take a deposit to secure materials, with staged payments agreed in advance.

What payment terms do you offer?

Payment terms are generally 70% on order. 30% on delivery. Fitting is scheduled on milestones on progress.

These are all set out on the agreed quotation.

Do you offer finance?

Yes we do. After the quotation is sent over we can then process the application and pass over the details.

Installation & Timescales

How long does it take to manufacture and install a steel building?

Manufacture usually takes 4–8 weeks depending on workload. Installation time varies from a few days (small garage) to several weeks (large commercial unit).

Do you provide groundwork and foundations?

Yes, we can arrange full groundworks including site preparation, foundations, and concrete floors.

Can you build on an existing concrete pad?

Yes, provided it meets structural requirements. We can assess your base and advise if additional work is needed.

Who handles the erection of the steel frame – your team or subcontractors?

We use our own skilled fitters and trusted subcontractors where necessary. All work is supervised to ensure quality and safety.

Do you work nationwide?

Yes. We supply and install steel frame buildings across the UK.

Durability & Maintenance

How long will a steel frame building last?

With proper maintenance, a steel building can last 40–60 years or more. Galvanised and coated steel frames are highly durable.

Is the steel galvanised or treated for rust protection?

Yes. Our frames are either galvanised or painted for corrosion resistance, and cladding panels are coated for long-term durability.

What kind of maintenance is required?

Minimal maintenance is needed – mainly keeping gutters clear, checking fasteners, and touching up any scratches to cladding.

Are steel buildings suitable for livestock or grain storage?

Yes. Steel buildings are commonly used for cattle housing, equestrian arenas, and grain stores. Insulation and ventilation can be added to suit specific agricultural needs.

Do your buildings come with a warranty or guarantee?

Yes.Our frames are covered by a structural warranty, and cladding/doors carry manufacturer warranties. Details are provided with every project all warranty’s are calculated on location.