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Frequently Asked Questions
So your thinking of getting your garage converted but there are a few things you just can't put your finger on, scroll down to find answers to the most frequently asked questions we get from our customers.
Welcome to the Garage Conversion Gurus FAQ page! We understand that converting your garage can be a big and costly decision, and we want to make sure you have all the information you need to make an informed choice. That's why we've compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions about garage conversions, along with detailed answers to help you understand the process.
Whether you're considering a garage conversion to add extra living space, create a home office, or simply improve the functionality of your home, our team of experts is here to help. We have years of experience working with homeowners to design and execute successful garage conversions, and we've learned a lot about what it takes to create a space that meets your needs and exceeds your expectations.
We cover a range of topics on this page, from the planning and design process to building codes and permits, building control and inspections, financing and budgeting, and adding value to your home. We also address common concerns such as the impact on your home's resale value, the potential for increased energy efficiency, and the possibility of extending your home's footprint.
We provide useful information on how to get planning permission, the building regulations you need to consider, and the best materials and styles for your conversion. We also have a guide to help you plan the layout of your new space, as well as tips on plumbing, flooring, and other essential elements. Our team is here to help you schedule and undertake your project every step of the way, from the initial planning stages to the final touches on your new space. We look forward to helping you transform your garage into a functional, stylish, and comfortable living space.
We also have advice on how to make your garage conversion suitable for the whole family. Whether you're looking to create a playroom for the kids, a home cinema for movie nights, or a bar for entertaining friends, we have plenty of garage conversion ideas to help you make the most of your space. We also provide useful tips on how to make sure your conversion is safe and secure, as well as advice on how to fall-proof your new space.
Finally, we have a range of ideas for garage conversion projects, from creating an extra bedroom to turning your garage into a home gym, kitchen, additional bathroom or even just workshop. We also have plenty of advice on how to make the most of your space, including tips on how to maximise storage and make the most of natural light with new windows and doors and whether or not anything has structural implications and if it requires a structural engineer or architectural drawings.
We hope this FAQ page has been helpful in giving you the information you need to make an informed decision about your garage conversion on your house. If you have a question that isn't answered here, don't hesitate to reach out to us for personalised assistance. Our team is here to help you every step of the way, from the initial planning stages to the final touches on your new space. We look forward to helping you transform your garage into a functional, stylish, and comfortable living space.
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Do you need planning permission for a garage conversion?In most cases planning permission is NOT required. The only time planning permission may be required is if your property falls under the following: Listed Building | Conservation Area | Roof exceeds ridge height of 4 meters | Garage footprint exceeds more than 50% of the house | Garage is located further away from the property that the public highway. Below is a short video explaining this further, credits to this video belongs to Resi UK, chartered architects.
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Is a garage conversion a worthwhile investment?Having a garage on your property is normally put there as an aesthetic incentive for property developers when developing multiple houses on an estate, to aid the sale. You will notice if a house has a garage and a driveway then most of the surrounding properties will too, this is because they are generally built in batches. However, as time has gone on, vehicles have got bigger and garages have got smaller! How many people actually park their car in a garage? Next to none, this is because they are either too small or once parked you cannot exit the vehicle. Having your garage converted, naturally extends the living quarter's and adds an additional room to the property, whether it be an additional bedroom or a home office, the conversion will add between 17-25% value to the overall worth of your home. For example- If you own a £200,000 house and your garage conversion costs £10,000, your house will then be worth approximately £240,000. A lot of our customers have their garage converted to then remortgage, and make a whopping £30,000. Taking this into consideration the answer is YES a garage conversion is without a doubt a worthwhile investment.
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Do you need architectural drawings for a garage conversion?99% of garage conversions do NOT need architectural plans drawn up. The only time drawings would be deemed appropriate is if you was massively remodelling the rest of the property, extending the original footprint or changing the structural integrity of the build, in which you would also need structural calculations. However, we work very closely with multiple architects and structural engineers who can provide these services. In some cases, a builder may request drawings for even the most basic conversions, with respect and without tarnishing other tradesmen, this request is somewhat questionable. In avoidance of this, it is always beneficial and cost effective to have your garage conversion project undertook by specialists like ourselves. If you still have concerns regarding this then get in contact with us and one of our project managers will advice you accordingly. Below is a short video explaining the costs incurred when involving an architect, credits to this video belongs to Resi UK, charted architects.
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How much does a garage conversion cost UK?The cost of a garage conversion can depend on multiple factors. Everyone has different preferences as to how they want their garage converted, dependant on the purpose of the project. However, below is an average price of standard garage conversions: Standard single garage conversions can range between £9000-£11,000. Standard double garage conversions can range between £17,000-£25,000. Why not see for yourself and check out our garage conversion cost calculator page? Or simply drop us an email and make arrangements with one of our project managers for a home visit for a more tailored quote. Below is a short video explaining this further, credits to this video belongs to Resi UK, chartered architects.
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Does your garage conversion come under permitted development?99% of garage conversions fall under permitted development. Below is a short video explaining this further, credits to this video belongs to Resi UK, chartered architects.
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How long does a standard garage conversion normally take to complete?The length of a garage conversion project can vary, dependant on numerous factors. However, below is an average timeframe in which we can convert your garage: Standard single garage conversions can range between 7 to 12 days. Standard double garage conversions can range between 12 to 16days.
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Can you convert your detached garage?YES! 99% of detached garages can be converted. In some cases additional approval maybe required if your property falls under the following: Listed Building | Conservation Area | Roof exceeds ridge height of 4 meters | Garage footprint exceeds more than 50% of the house | Garage is located further away from the property that the public highway.
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How much does Building Control cost?Building inspection fees can vary dependant on the size of the project and as to what work is to be done. It also depends on the inspection service you use. The council provide a direct inspection service through an in house team, 'LABC' (LocalAuthorityBuildingControl). However, through experience it is recognised throughout the industry that a private inspection company can work out cheaper and the dealings with them are more efficient. For this reason alone for the past 7 years we have worked direct with a reputable company called 'Approved Inspectors Ltd', these guys are great and we have a very good working relationship with them. Head over to our 'Regulations' page to find out exactly how building inspections work and at what stages they come todo onsite assessments. The average price of a garage conversion inspection is below: LABC- £650-800 Approved Inspectors Ltd- £400-600
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Theres a boiler, electric box or gas meter in your garage. Is this going to be a problem?In most garages we convert we are faced with service meters, boilers and consumer units. This is perfectly normal for these to be housed within your garage and do not create any issues nor do they interfere with a conversion. We incorporate these into the partitions with in the wall and finish them nicely with accessible doors. See the images below:
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Can you put a toilet or shower in your garage?This is a question that we are faced with daily, the answer is yes providing there is access to foul waste within the property or within its grounds. The ideal solution would be to tap into the main foul waste run either through a 4" soil pipe BUT sometimes this is not doable and will require the use of a macerator. A macerator is a machine that gets plumbed in to the waste outlets and it essentially chews up the waste and pumps is through a narrow pipe and into the soil stack located within the property. Although this option can be achieved in most cases, it normally entails a-lot more work within the property as the pipe runs will need to be routed and in most cases require some additional remodelling and alterations to the existing house which can be costly. Below is a video explaining how a macerator system works:
If you still have questions regarding your garage conversion, then don't hesitate to contact us. Our project team are available 7 days a week and will be more than happy to help.