Can I Run a Salon From my Garden?

Running a salon from your garden is becoming an increasingly popular option for hairdressers, beauticians, and nail technicians in the UK. With the rising costs of high street rent and the benefits of working from home, many beauty professionals are considering setting up a garden salon or beauty studio.

But is it feasible, and what do you need to consider? We explore the ins and outs of running a salon from your garden.

Is it legal to run a salon from my garden?

The short answer is yes, it can be legal to run a salon from your garden, but there are several factors you need to consider:

Planning permission

You’ll need to check with your local council whether you need planning permission to run a business from your garden. This often depends on the scale of your operation and whether you’re making significant changes to your property.

Business use

Even if you don’t need planning permission, you may need to apply for a change of use for your garden room or garden office if you’re using it primarily for business purposes.

Licences

Depending on the services you offer, you may need specific licences. For example, if you’re providing treatments like laser hair removal, you’ll need to comply with additional regulations.

Health and safety

Your garden salon will need to comply with all relevant health and safety regulations, just like a high street salon.

Insurance

Your home insurance may not cover business activities, so you’ll need to look into specific salon insurance.

What type of garden room do I need for a salon?

When setting up a salon in your garden, you have several options:

Garden room: A purpose-built garden room can provide the perfect space for your salon. These are often highly insulated buildings that can be used year-round.
Garden office: A garden office can be easily converted into a beauty studio or hair salon.
Log cabin: A log cabin can offer a rustic, charming atmosphere for your salon.
Bespoke build: Some companies specialise in creating custom garden rooms for specific business needs, including salons.

Whichever option you choose, consider the following:

Size: Ensure you have enough space for your equipment, storage, and clients. A typical small salon might be around 3m x 3m.
Insulation: Good insulation is crucial for year-round comfort.
Power: You’ll need adequate power outlets for your equipment.
Plumbing: Consider whether you need running water, especially for a hair salon with a back basin.
Ventilation: Proper ventilation is essential, especially if you’re using chemicals.
Lighting: Good lighting is crucial for most beauty treatments.

How can I create a professional salon atmosphere in my garden?

Creating a professional atmosphere is key to the success of your garden salon. Here are some tips:

Branding

Use this as an opportunity to brand your space. Choose colours and decor that reflect your style and appeal to your target clientele.

Equipment

Invest in professional-grade equipment. This might include cutting stations, a nail bar, or treatment beds, depending on your services.

Comfort

Ensure your space is comfortable for both you and your clients. This includes temperature control and comfortable seating.

Privacy

Consider how you can ensure privacy for your clients, both visually and in terms of sound.

Accessibility

Make sure your garden salon is easily accessible, including for clients with mobility issues.

What are the financial implications of running a salon from my garden?

Running a salon from your garden can be cost-effective, but there are financial factors to consider:

Business rates: You may need to pay business rates, although small businesses can often get relief.
Utility costs: Your household bills are likely to increase, but you may be able to claim a portion as business expenses.
Insurance: You’ll need specific business insurance, which may be more expensive than standard home insurance.
Initial investment: Setting up a garden salon requires an upfront investment in the building and equipment.

What are the benefits of running a salon from my garden?

There are numerous benefits to running a salon from your garden:

Lower overheads: You’ll save on rent and commuting costs.
Flexibility: You can set your own hours and have a better work-life balance.
Personal touch: A garden salon can offer a more intimate, personalised experience for your clients.
Tax benefits: You may be able to claim a portion of your home expenses against your business income.
No commute: You’ll save time and money by eliminating your daily commute.

Protect Your Garden Salon with Salon Saver

Running a salon from your garden can be a rewarding and cost-effective way to build your beauty business. However, it’s crucial to ensure you’re properly protected. At Salon Saver, we understand the unique insurance needs of garden salons and home-based beauty businesses.

Our salon insurance policies can be tailored to cover your specific situation. We can help protect your business against risks such as client injuries, damage to your equipment, and more.

Don’t let insurance worries hold you back from realising your dream of a garden salon. Contact Salon Saver today to discuss your insurance needs and get a quote tailored to your home-based beauty business.

Dean Laming

Dean Laming is a Chartered Insurance Broker with more than 25 years insurance experience. Through various underwriting, operational and management roles, Dean has built up extensive knowledge of the hair and beauty sector and is now Managing Director of Salon Saver, part of the wider Henry Seymour Group.

All articles by Dean Laming