--- title: Why are you more expensive than other community sheds? last_updated: 2026-07-15T16:13:49Z --- # Why are you more expensive than other community sheds? We have a lot of bills to cover! Our operating costs include - * Rent for our physical space (at commercial market rates) * Utilities (power, internet...) * Insurance * Workshop operating costs Many community sheds get government support, subsidies, or grants to help with these costs, so they can keep their membership fees low. The Artifactory is a non-profit (and has many generous donors!), but our operational costs aren't funded by the government. Our membership fees reflect the true cost of running an independent community shed. In recognition of the role we play in the mental health of our members we have put significant effort into keeping our membership fees as low as possible. The last time our dues changed was over a decade ago. If you want to know where all the money goes we publish a full accounting every year as part of our annual report.