A garage conversion can add extra storage space to the property, as well as adding value to the home too. You can gain an extra room, without having to apply for planning permission. There are lots of options to consider, like using it as a utility and storage room, to creating a home office, or a gym. 

Here, we’ll talk about everything you need to know about garage conversions. 

Cost of a Garage Conversion

A single garage conversion can cost from £7000 to £20000, while a double garage conversion could be anywhere from £15000-£55000. The overall cost will depend on the extent of your conversion, the size of the garage, and can also vary based on your properties location. 

Adding in ventilation, windows, doors, heating and plumbing systems can all make garage conversions a costly renovation project, but once you’ve completed it and got the extra space, it’ll be worth it. 

Do You Need Planning Permission?

A garage conversion falls under permitted development for the property because it’s not adding to the overall footprint of your home. That means you shouldn’t need to seek planning permission before starting the project. 

However, if you live in a listed building or conservation area, then you may need to get planning permission, anyway. You should always check with your local authority to find out whether planning permission is necessary. 

Is My Garage Suitable For Conversion?

Not all garages are suitable to be converted into extra rooms. Before you start the project, you should look into whether you need planning permission, and get an understanding of the garage’s foundations. If you need to sink a lot of money into reinforcing the foundations, or updating the roof, the cost of the garage conversion may not be worth the benefits. 

Ultimately, the choice is yours. There are lots of ways to convert your garage to get extra storage space – like changing the garage door and being sensible with your storage options – without opting for a full conversion. 

Will it Add Value To My Property?

Converting your garage can add value to the overall price of your property. According to some estate agents, it can increase the property value by up to 15%. But it’s individual to every home. You should consider if there is a price ceiling for your property, and if you’ve already hit it, then it will not add more value. 

Also, the garage conversion needs to be converted professionally, and it could decrease property value if you leave yourself with an unreliable parking situation. For example, if the garage is your only place to park your car and on-street parking in your area is difficult, you would be better off keeping it as a place to store your vehicle. 

Changes To Make To Your Garage For Conversion

There are lots of changes you’ll need to make to your garage to convert it properly. You’ll need to consider windows, the garage door, ventilation, and insulation requirements. It’s worth looking up the building regulations for your area. Without adding insulation, your converted garage won’t retain heat or meet building regulations. There’s no floor insulation in a garage, so you’ll need to add some there. You can use insulated plasterboard on the walls or set up insulation and seal it in with fireproof plasterboard. 

Windows

If your garage doesn’t join onto your property, and doesn’t have a separate entrance other than the garage door then you’ll need to add in windows for fire safety regulations. However, adding in a window or two can brighten up the space and make it feel more homely. 

Door

You can change your garage door from a large manual swing to an electric roller garage door and get more space. An electric roller garage door rolls up into a neat cover hood above the door instead of manually swinging into the garage, which makes it a better option for a door if you’re planning on using the garage for other things. 

It opens up the roof as extra space and is much safer for your home thanks to the sensitive sensors which mean the garage door won’t close if they sense an obstruction like a child or a pet. 

Regulations

Prior to starting the project, looking up the building regulations for converting garages is the best option. It allows you to understand the necessities like ventilation, insulation, and what criteria your windows must meet, for you to complete the job.