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Prefab garage purchase checklist: 10 points to consider before buying

A prefab garage is an investment that will last for decades. To help you make the right decision, we have compiled a list of the most important points you should consider before buying. Use this checklist as a guide—it will help you remember everything you need to know.

Point 1: Determine space requirements

How many vehicles will be parked in the garage?

Checklist:

  • Number of vehicles: ___
  • Additional storage space required? (Bicycles, tools, tires)
  • Workshop or hobby room planned?

Recommendation:

  • One car = single garage.
  • Two cars or lots of storage space = double garage or large garage.

👉 Overview of garage types

Point 2: Check vehicle dimensions

How big is your vehicle?

Checklist:

  • Vehicle width: ___ m (+ at least 55 cm on each side for getting out)
  • Vehicle length: ___ m (+ at least 50 cm at the front/rear)
  • Vehicle height: ___ m (note for SUVs, vans, and transporters!)

Recommendation: SUV or van? Then a wide garage (up to 3.59 m) is the better choice for comfortable entry and exit.

Point 3: Measure your property

How much space is available on your property?

Checklist

  • Available width: ___ m
  • Available length: ___ m
  • Check boundary distances (usually 3 m, often 0 m possible at the boundary)
  • View the development plan (municipality/town hall)

Recommendation: Measure generously! The garage needs some space around it for delivery and maintenance.

 

 

Point 4: Clarify building permit

Do I need a building permit?

Checklist:

  • State: _______________
  • Garage size below exemption limit? (usually 30–50 m²)
  • Boundary construction permitted?
  • Checked with municipality/building authority?

Recommendation: In most federal states, garages up to 30–50 m² do not require a permit – but distance rules still apply!

👉 Building permits by federal state

Point 5: Set your budget

How much do you want to invest?

Checklist:

  • Budget for garage: ___ €
  • Budget for foundation: ___ €
  • Buffer for extras: ___ € (electricity, water, special equipment)

Orientation:

Garage type Price range

Single garage 6,500 to 13,000 €

Wide garage 9,950 to 19,000 €

Double garage 13,000 to 26,000 €

Large garage €23,100 to €30,000

Prices include delivery and installation, plus foundation

👉 How much do garages really cost?

Point 6: Determine the type of foundation

What kind of foundation do I need?

Checklist:

  • Is the soil condition known? (Load-bearing capacity)
  • Build it yourself or hire someone?
  • Have you obtained quotes from civil engineers?

Options:

Type of foundation Suitable for

Strip foundation Normal ground

Point foundation Solid ground

Floor slab Unstable ground

Recommendation: ZAPF provides a detailed foundation plan. This allows any civil engineer to build the foundation.

Point 7: Check access for delivery

Can the garage be delivered?

Checklist:

  • Access width
  • Is the turning radius sufficient for trucks?
  • Are there any obstacles? (Trees, pipes, walls)
  • Is it possible to set up a crane? (Stable ground)

Important: The prefabricated garage is lowered as a whole by crane. The truck needs a setting area near the parking space.

→ If you are unsure: ZAPF consultants will check the access route in advance!

Point 8: Select equipment

What extras do I need?

Checklist:

  • Door type: Up-and-over door / Sectional door
  • Door drive: Manual / Electric
  • Do you want windows?
  • Do you want a side entrance door?
  • Electrical installation? (Lighting, sockets)
  • Green roof?

Recommendation: An electric door drive costs little extra and greatly increases convenience—especially in bad weather.

👉 Equipment options

Point 9: Select garage type

Which garage type is right for me?

Overview:

Garage type For whom?

Single garage 1 car

Wide garage 1 large vehicle (SUV, van)

Double garage 2 cars

Large garage 2+ vehicles, workshop

Checklist:

  • Garage type selected: _______________
  • Suitable for vehicle(s)?
  • Suitable for property?

👉 All garage types

Point 10: Compare suppliers

What should I look for in a supplier?

Checklist:

  • Material: concrete, steel, or wood?
  • Manufacturer's experience?
  • Delivery and installation included?
  • Warranty and service?
  • References and reviews?

Why ZAPF?

Criterion ZAPF

Experience Since 1904 (over 120 years)

Material Reinforced concrete – durable & easy to maintain

Delivery Throughout Germany, own KTM fleet

Installation Included, in one day

Production Made in Germany (Bayreuth)