# What is a Shell (Casco)?
**A shell (or casco) is the structural envelope of a building, consisting of the foundation, load-bearing walls, floors, roof and external facades — without any internal fit-out, finishes or building services.** A shell house is structurally complete but needs to be fully fitted out inside.
## What Is Included in the Shell?
– **Foundation** — the base on which the building rests
– **Load-bearing walls and columns** — the structural core
– **Floor slabs** — concrete or timber floor structures
– **Roof structure** — including roof covering
– **External walls** — masonry or cladding
– **Windows and doors** — sometimes included, depending on the contract
## What Is Not Included?
– Internal partition walls (non-load-bearing)
– Plastering and painting
– Floor and wall finishes
– Kitchen and bathroom
– Electrical installation and plumbing
– Heating system
## Application
Buying or building a shell is popular with self-builders who want to carry out the fit-out themselves. A shell handover is cheaper than a turnkey handover but requires more effort and coordination from the buyer.
## Related Terms
– Shell construction
– Structural frame
– Foundation
– Fit-out
– Construction process
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