There are many things to consider before you build a chicken coop.
You will need to decide which type of chicken coop to build for your chickens.
There are several types and sizes from which to choose.
Are you going to want your coop to be a portable or a permanently placed structure? As the name implies, you can move the portable coop around to different areas of your property whereas the permanent structure will stay in one place.
The permanent structure would most likely endure the passing of time with less wear and tear than the portable coop.
Before you decide on which type of coop to build you will need to decide on the size of your flock.
If you only want to keep a couple chickens the portable should work just fine.
If you want to raise a larger flock than the permanent structure would be the best one to choose.
With the larger flock you will definitely need more space to accommodate all of your chickens in the and the accessories needed, such as nesting boxes, feeders and watering dishes.
Plus you will need a certain amount of space for each chicken.
Once you have decided on the type and size of your coop you will need to consider the different materials with which to build.
I'm certain you will want to keep the cost down but you need to research to determine which material will hold up the best over a long period of time.
Obviously that would be the cheapest material because you would not have to keep mending and replacing over time.
When you have decided on the best material to use, one that will last for many years, you're going to have to decide on where to locate your coop on your property.
The spot you choose should be flat so you can build a good strong and sturdy base for the coop.
If you decide to place your coop on an area that is not flat you will need to spend time and money to landscaping it.
Once you have decided on the location for your coop you will need to be sure to position it properly in order to protect your chickens against the different climates.
You will need to make sure there's plenty of indirect lighting in the coop but no direct sunlight.
Ventilation is important but you need to protect your chickens against wind.
Another very important thing you need to think about is protecting your chickens against predators.
That means a good strong sturdy fence around their run.
The run is the area around the outside of the coop where the chickens will no doubt spend their day.
The most important accessories you will need to place inside the coop are nesting boxes, watering receptacles and feeders.
You will also need to place perches in the coop so your chickens will have a place to sleep at night.
Last but by no means least you will need to maintain your flock and the chicken house in which they live.
You will need to check your chickens daily to guard against mites and lice.
You will also need to make sure they have fresh water and feed every day.
You will need to clean the coop at least weekly and give it a thorough cleaning biannually.
Now you have an overview of what is needed to keep a flock of chickens it is time to get started.
It may seem a little overwhelming initially but with the right plans you should be up and running in a minimal amount of time.