The Basics of Garage Conversions
Garage conversions are an easy, affordable way to create more space in your home all while adding up to 20% of the value of your home. The possibilities are endless when it comes to garage conversions. Here at West Yorkshire Garage Conversions, we’ve seen a variety of garage conversions like mini-at-home pubs, stunning modern libraries, offices to accommodate the new WFH era, holiday lofts to Airbnb out, kids playrooms, and man-cave and she-sheds galore.
If you’re considering converting your dusty, dilapidated garage into something more fun and practical, but you’re not sure where to start. This blog is for you.
How Must Does a Garage Conversion Cost
If you’re thinking about converting your garage in West Yorkshire, budget is the most important question you’ll need to consider.
You’re probably asking yourself, “how much is this going to cost me?”
Unfortunately, the price of a garage conversion varies on the work, specifications, and materials used, so we’ll need to more about your wants to give you an accurate quote.
What we can tell you is that a basic conversion of storage space is the cheapest option starting at around £7000 – £9000. This wouldn’t be a habitable space, and there would be no requirements for building regulations because it’s purely for storage purposes.
A basic habitable garage conversion would range from about £11000-£14000. This increase is due to the fact that a habitable space has more requirements than a storage space.
We also have garage conversions that range anywhere from £15000 up to £30000. It is completely dependent on the bespoke style you want your conversion, the materials you choose, and the size. We can work within your budget to give the garage conversion of your dream, reach out today to get your quote.
How Long Does a Garage Conversion Take?
Like the budget, the timeline for a garage conversion depends on what you want to create.
Here at West Yorkshire Garage Conversions, we’ve worked on projects as short as 7 days and upwards of a month. It all depends on the level of work and the size of the conversion. A basic garage conversion for storage could take as little as one week because you’re simply setting up the floors, walls, and ceiling.
However, if you’re looking at a habitable conversion, you’ll need to account for the time to install plumbing, heating, furniture installation, and electrical. These conversions can take 2 to 3 weeks.
Typically, conversions don’t take longer than 3 weeks, unless the project requires a complete rebuild of a garage between the required planning permission and the building it could take around 6 weeks.
If you’re curious how long your garage conversion will take, get your quote today.
Do You Need Planning Permission for a Garage Conversion
Some garage conversions require a planning permit and others do not.
If the work is only internal, and it does not involve extending the garage externally, then the work should be covered under ‘permitted development rights It depends. If the work is internal only and does not involve extending the garage externally then the work should be covered under ‘permitted development rights.’ Even if you’re replacing garage doors with windows, but all the other walls remain, it typically isn’t required.
However, if your garage conversion involves adding windows to the side or back of your garage, then permitted development may not apply. You may need to consider your neighbour’s line of sight or privacy. We always recommend if you are adding windows to the side or rear of your property, and there is a property adjacent, you seek guidance from your planning department or contact your local council for advice.
Find out if you need a planning permit when you get a quote.
Do You Need an Architect for a Garage Conversion?
There is no legal requirement to hire an architect for any conversion or extension.
However, working with a professional architect will give you a much better chance of converting the space to a high standard, especially if you plan for a habitable space. They will also have experience in dealing with local planning authorities and other relevant agencies that are involved in the process. Just as importantly, using an architect will ensure the space is converted to meet the latest safety regulations.
In short, an architect is not required but it can be useful especially if the customer is not certain about what’s possible, whoever is doing the proposed works should be able to offer you this advice and planning however if you would like to get a second opinion from a professional who would be regulated on the subject it can be worthwhile.
Does a Garage Conversion Add Value to a House?
A garage conversion will definitely add value to your home, in some cases, it could be around a 20% increase. Another bonus when doing a garage conversion is that planning permission is not always required which cuts down further costs and stresses, but it will still provide you with the same end product. If you get your conversion signed off by building regulations as a habitable space, then your home will have an extra bedroom/liveable space which of course will certainly add value to your home.
Ready to Start Your Garage Conversion?
If you’re ready to transform your garage into a high-end space, then our team at West Yorkshire Garage Conversions is ready to bring your dreams to life. Contact us today to get your free quote.