FAQs

How do I get a YardPod?

Option 1 (DIY):

Select the location that you feel would work best.
Call your local Planning Department to understand your site setbacks to ensure that you can place your YardPod where you want it.
Select the size and style that you would like using our on-line YardPod Configurator.
Review the sketch that we provide and if you approve, request a price quote. We will provide the original sketch plus one modified sketch free of charge, after that, we charge $100 per sketch.
Review our price quote, sign the order form.
Arrange for foundations to be prepared.
We will deliver within about 4 weeks.

Option 2 (full service)

Invite us to meet you at your site for a design consultation.
Pay our $500 Design Consultation fee, refundable against the purchase of a YardPod.
Meet us on site, review the location options, review the design options, finishes, etc. Agree a design concept.
Review the sketch that we provide (under one week) and if you approve, request a price quote. We will provide the original sketch plus one modified sketch free of charge.
Review our price quote (under one week), sign the order form.
We will deliver, within about 4 weeks. We will normally install the foundations and the finished unit in a few days.

How do I design a YardPod?

Using our on-line YardPod Configurator, please give us your initial ideas about what you would like. We will discuss your ideas with you and will suggest alternatives. We will then sketch a design based on your preferences and, when you are ready to proceed, we will give you a firm price. Or:
We will design it for you. We will be happy to make a site visit to see where you wish to place the YardPod. We will make recommendations and will provide design sketches. There is a $500 fee for this service in the Greater SF Bay Area which is refundable upon ordering a YardPod.

Can I use my own design for a YardPod?

Yes. We are happy to work with you on your custom design (design fees will apply).

Can I order a larger (than 10×12) Yardpod?

Yes, we are happy to work with you on a Custom Design (design fees will apply). Permits will normally be required on larger YardPods.

Can I include a bathroom or kitchen?

Yes. This will be a “Custom Design,” see above. Permits will normally be required.

Why should I select a YardPod rather than a competitors product?

CUSTOMIZATION: We provide you with the freedom to design the perfect space for YOU. Select the configuration, doors, windows, materials, etc. We can even match your existing home.
STEEL: Yardpods are manufactured from Light-Gauge Cold-Formed steel (LGS) rather than wood framing. LGS is made from Galvanized steel with a high recycled content. It is lighter, stronger, will not warp, shrink or support mold or infestation and should last for at least 100 years. At the end of its life, steel is 100% recyclable.
ACCURACY: YardPods are manufactured to the highest tolerances by computer-controlled roll-formers in our high-tech factory in Rohnert Park, California.
GREEN: All materials used in YardPods are selected to be as green as possible. The frame is built with almost zero waste. We use bamboo flooring, recycled insulation with excellent thermal and acoustic insulation properties. We offer cool roofs which reflect the sun and we offer highly insulated doors and windows. As new green materials reach the marketplace, we will incorporate them.
PRICE: YardPods offer the best value.

Do I need a permit?

Each authority has its own set of regulations. It is the responsibility of the purchaser to verify whether or not permits are required.
Generally, you will not need a permit in California if you comply with planning setbacks because YardPods, which are a maximum of 120 sq ft, are defined as “Detached Accessory Structures” and are supplied without electricity and water hook-ups.
If you wish to apply for permits, we can provide you with a set of architectural and structural drawings for $500.

What kind of foundation do I need?

YardPods are normally installed on pre-cast concrete blocks (4 or 6 depending on size). Blocks are normally suitable for level sites with compacted soil, which is well-drained. When we install YardPods, we will normally use pier blocks. The cost for us to install pre-cast foundation blocks is $1000 for smaller units and $1500 for larger units.
YardPods can also be installed on a concrete slab, a gravel bed, or on treated lumber.

Will you deliver?

If the YardPod is to be located in the greater San Francisco Bay Area, we will deliver at a cost of $4 per mile.
Outside the Bay Area, we will be pleased to quote a price for delivery by freight carrier.

Will you erect the YardPod?

We would be happy to provide you with a price to erect any of our YardPods on your site, if within the Greater San Francisco Bay Area.
We do not normally erect outside the Bay Area and recommend that you contact a local General Contractor.

Can I erect the YardPod?

Yes. But unless you have some experience with building, we strongly recommend that you allow us to erect, or contract with a local builder. We take a lot of trouble to ensure that our components are dimensionally accurate and that they will fit well together. However, there is no substitute for experience.
If you plan to erect yourself, please plan to have a minimum of three physically fit people to help.

Do you install electricity?

Normally we do not. Buildings with mains electricity will usually require an Electrical Permit. You should discuss with your local building department or a local electrical contractor.
We build YardPods with an electrical junction box built into the floor so that electricity can be added quickly and easily later.

Does a Yardpod come with heating and/or cooling?

YardPods are designed to be well-insulated and (with a cool roof) to reflect heat from the sun. Also, we encourage the use of opening windows to create a natural air flow.
If you wish to add heating and/or cooling, please contact a local contractor.

Is there a solar-powered option?

When site conditions permit; we recommend adding a ground-mounted solar array complete with inverter and battery-back-up.

Are YardPods finished?

The DIY and FIY versions are unfinished. The “Complete” YardPod is finished inside and out, ready to enjoy immediately.