What to Look For When Buying a Chicken Coop and Run

What to Look For When Buying a Chicken Coop and Run

What to look for when buying a chicken coop and run is one of the most important questions new chicken keepers face. Get it right, and you’ll have happy, healthy hens and an easier time caring for them. Get it wrong, and you risk poor hygiene, predator attacks, frustrated chickens, and constant upkeep.

In this guide, we’ll explain exactly what to look for when buying a chicken coop and run so you can make an informed, practical choice for your flock.

What size coop and run do you need?

When buying a chicken coop and run, start by deciding how many chickens you’ll keep and what you’re keeping them for. Most families want fresh eggs, so you’ll need to plan based on the number of eggs you expect.

For example:

• 3 to 4 hybrid hens lay ~700 eggs a year
• Less productive breeds need more birds to hit the same number

Remember, hens lay less as they age, and seasonal changes affect laying. If you plan to keep older hens or grow your flock, get a coop that can handle the future.

What to look for in chicken coop sizing

While DEFRA recommends 1 square foot per bird inside the coop, that’s the legal minimum – not the ideal. Your coop must allow chickens to:

• Move comfortably
• Access perches and nesting boxes
• Avoid food and water contamination
• Reduce stress and bullying

If a coop claims to fit 6 hens, assume it means 6 bantams, 5 average-sized hens, or 4 large breeds like Orpingtons. Always check actual dimensions before buying a chicken coop and run.

What coop features make daily care easier?

Easy cleaning and egg collection

Look for:

• Pull-out droppings trays
• Removable perches
• Hinged roofs or wide access doors
• External nesting box access

These features save time, reduce mess, and help maintain hen health. Cleaning your chicken coop regularly is essential – an accessible design makes it easier.

Tip: Compost droppings in a sealed bin for 6+ months before use in the garden.

Ventilation without draughts

Ventilation is a must. Ammonia and moisture build-up can cause illness. Your coop should have:

• Two high-mounted vents for airflow
• Adjustable ventilation flaps
• Mesh coverings on any large openings

Fresh air in, stale air out – but never at hen level.

Predator protection features

In the UK, foxes, mink, badgers, and birds of prey are all threats. A good coop includes:

• A raised base to prevent digging and damp
• Galvanised bolts or lockable doors
• Sturdy construction that can’t be pulled open

Buying a chicken coop and run with proper predator defences protects your flock both day and night.

What makes a good perch and nesting area?

Removable, comfortable perches

Chickens naturally roost at night. Your coop should include:

• One perch space per hen
• 3–4cm wide wooden bars with rounded edges
• Easy access for cleaning
• Perches positioned away from food and water

Avoid plastic or metal bars – they’re too slippery and cold.

Cosy, clean nesting boxes

A nesting box should be:

• Quiet and enclosed
• Raised from the ground but lower than the perch
• Lined with dry bedding
• Divided into sections (1 box per 3–4 hens)

Many coops allow you to expand the nesting box if your flock grows.

What to look for in build quality

When buying a chicken coop and run, materials matter. You’ll typically choose between wood and plastic.

Wooden coops:

• Look for thick, tongue-and-groove timber
• Galvanised metal fittings
• Treated for weather protection
• Re-treat annually with pet-safe preservative

Plastic coops:

• Should be thick and UV-resistant
• Watertight and pest-resistant
• Check that hinges and locks are strong and reliable

Avoid coops sold as rabbit hutches – they’re often poorly suited for chickens.

What to look for when buying a chicken run

A run gives chickens outdoor access while protecting your garden. Here’s what to consider:

Run size and structure

• Minimum 1 square metre per bird, more if possible
• Strong timber or metal frame
• Roof or cover for shade and rain protection
• Human access door for cleaning and feeding

Predator protection

Don’t rely on cheap chicken wire. Instead:

• Use galvanised, close-mesh wire
• Secure mesh to a solid frame
• Bury or border the run edge to stop digging
• Add a mesh roof to prevent climbing predators or birds of prey

Enrichment inside the run

Hens need more than just space. Include:

• Dry, loose soil for dust bathing
• Natural perches (branches or logs)
• Grit for digestion
• Hanging treats or pecking toys (avoid leftover food)

A well-designed run keeps hens active, healthy, and mentally stimulated.

What optional extras are worth considering?

• Automatic door openers – great for early mornings or weekends away
• Run extensions – some coops are modular and expandable
• Weather covers – protect part of the run from rain and sun
• Electric fencing kits – perfect for free-ranging in a larger area

Where to buy a chicken coop and run

You’ll find coops for sale at garden centres, pet shops, and online. For quality and support, we recommend buying from a chicken coop specialist.

They’ll understand things like:
“Is this coop suitable for three Orpingtons?”
Try getting that answered accurately at Argos.

Look for clear product details, reviews, and robust support before buying.

How to care for your coop over time

• Re-treat wooden coops annually
• Clean thoroughly every week
• Check for rot, leaks, or splinters
• Repair or replace worn parts as needed

If your coop becomes unsafe, too small, or hard to clean – replace it.

Don’t forget the accessories

When buying a chicken coop and run, you’ll also need:

• Feeder and drinker (inside and outside)
• Disinfectant and cleaning tools
• Bedding
• Pest control (like red mite powder)

Conclusion

Knowing what to look for when buying a chicken coop and run can make all the difference in your chicken-keeping journey. Choose the right size, safe materials, and practical features – and your hens will reward you with happy clucks, healthy eggs, and fewer problems.

For coop reviews and buying guides, check out our dedicated chicken coop reviews section.