What is a sleepout in building terminology?

Backyard studios, granny flats, home offices, man-caves, she-sheds, teenage retreats… the differences between building terminologies can be confusing. The term “sleepout” has evolved in meaning over the years, and the meaning can depend also on where you’re located. What does a “sleepout” mean in today’s language, when you’re thinking of building in Australia?

Not to be confused with charity sleepout events

All over the world, you will find charity events called “sleepouts” or “executive sleepouts” which are intended to raise money for conquering homelessness. These worthy endeavours do not relate to the building industry at all.

Different from the old Queenslander sleepout

Historically, old Queenslander homes are usually surrounded by a veranda. When the veranda was enclosed to make one or more bedrooms, these used to be called “sleepouts”, but they’re still part of the main home. This is how you can tell the difference between the old-school meaning of sleepout and the modern-day reference that applies to all of Australia, not just in Queensland.

The modern meaning of sleepout in Australia

Similar to New Zealand, the modern Australian sleepout means a building that is separate from the main dwelling and designed as an additional bedroom or bedrooms. The sleepout doesn’t have a bathroom like with backyard studios or kitchenette facilities like backyard granny flats.

The versatility of a separate sleepout building

The separate sleepout building could also function as a home office, teenage retreat, man-cave, or she-shed. Not only could the sleepout accommodate occasional guests, it could be used as a permanent bedroom for a member of the family or family friend.

Does a sleepout need building approval?

All buildings intended for habitable use in Australia require building approval. It’s worth going through with the approval process for a sleepout, as it enables you to have proper insurance cover for the occupants in case something catastrophic happened to the building (like a fire) causing harm to the occupants. Although some people will build a sleepout unofficially, without approval, we strongly advise getting approval and we can help you with the process in NSW, VIC, QLD and ACT. You might find that you would prefer a backyard studio (with ensuite) or a fully-fledged granny flat (with kitchenette and laundry facilities) once you get into the process, where budget allows.