Is the conversion straight forward?
Yes is the simple answer, for a good builder, or someone competent at DIY and willing to get stuck in, surprisingly simple! Garages are often nothing more than storage for all that ‘good stuff’ people tend to keep, simply because they have the space to do so! Having plans to convert the garage into habitable living space is, compared to moving house, or building an extension, a very cost effective way of gaining additional space in your home. Brick up the garage door and install a window, add a floor, plaster the walls and ceiling, add a door from the house, install insulation and that’s the basics ready to go.
What can I do with the new space?
Popular options for the plans include an additional reception room, such as a study, bedroom, playroom or a combination of these. For example a sofa bed in a playroom makes a great occasional use guest bedroom. An increasingly common way to convert a garage is to have a utility room, if this can’t be attached to the kitchen it might be called a laundry room, it still achieves the same result of getting appliances out of the kitchen, whilst also creating good storage space. As well as the utility room, a WC and reception room is often achievable. Sometimes storage is required for things like pushbikes and wheelie bins, this can still be achieved by having a storage area at the front, accessed by a garage door.
Do I need Planning Permission?
Sometimes, is the not so helpful answer! There are several different ways to seek approval from the Local Planning Authority (LPA) for a garage conversion. Applying for planning permission is an obvious one, there are also options around the properties permitted development rights, such as a Certificate Of Lawfulness, or even a combination of these. Whatever type of planning application is required, we will discuss the options with you in full and advise of any risks before going ahead, often we can assure you approval will be forthcoming.
If you’d like to know more, call now to find out, 01634 757355.