Converting a Garage

Garage conversions are becoming increasing popular throughout the UK. They are a quick and cheap way of adding extra space to a property, whether you need a spare bedroom, larger kitchen or want to expand your living room.

Below we have information on the rules & regulations, finding a builder, money saving tips and an overview on the average garage conversion cost.

Compare Garage Conversion Prices

Are you looking to convert a garage into a living space or bedroom? We can help you find a great deal by comparing prices of local garage conversion professionals. To find out how much a garage conversion costs in your area, simply use the price calculator below.

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Garage Conversion Cost

There are a few important components that influence the cost of a garage conversion. The main factors are:

• Garage Size – Larger garages will require additional materials and labour to complete the construction, and as a result they will cost more than a smaller garage. Whilst the cost will be higher for double garages, you will end up with a larger living space.
• Type of Conversion – There are a lot of options available when converting a garage, and each room type will cost differing amounts. For example, a bathroom garage conversion costs more than a bedroom conversion due to the plumbing, tiling and fittings.
• Location in the UK – A major factor in determining the cost of a garage conversion is your location within the UK. Typically, costs will be highest in London and the South East of England. Locations without local garage conversion builders will also cost more.

How much does a garage conversion cost?

An average single garage conversion costs between £4,500 to £8,000 in the UK. The price of converting a double garage typically ranges from £6,000 to £12,000. More complicated builds, such as kitchens and bathrooms, will cost more than a standard room, such as a bedroom.

Garage conversion prices are much cheaper than a traditional home extension, as they benefit from already having foundations, walls, a roof and often electricity in place. As a result, if you are on a tight budget, converting your garage into much needed living space may be the ideal solution.

Below we have compiled a useful table to help you better understand the average price of a garage conversion in the UK.

Please note: the garage conversion prices above are estimates – for accurate pricing, please use our cost comparison tool.

Garage Conversion UK

Whilst the building costs for a garage conversion are minimal due to the structure already being in place, there are some important details and add-ons that need consideration.

Additional Garage Conversion Costs

Below are a few important garage conversion costs and considerations:

Garage Doors

As part of your garage conversion, you will most likely remove your garage door and replace it with a solid wall, window, door or a combination of these. Depending on the garage door size and method you use, the price will range from £500 to £2,000.

Flooring

There are a number of flooring options available, including carpet, tiles and lino. For older garage floors, a new base may need to be laid before the installation of carpet to ensure it is even and flat.

Walls

For most garage conversion, insulated stud walls will be installed and then covered with plasterboard to provide an energy efficient room. In some cases, especially if you want to maximise space, the walls can be plastered directly.

Doors & Windows

Doors and windows important to provide access and light to enter your converted garage. It is recommended to choose double or triple glazed windows, which will provide a higher level of insulation for your new room.

Utilities

Whilst most garages will have an electricity supply, some conversions will require additional electrical rewiring, radiators and even phone lines. For kitchen and bathroom conversions, there will also be additional gas, plumbing and drainage required.

Is planning permission required?

In most cases, as long as you don’t plan on changing the structure of your home, planning permission won’t be required. Garage conversions are typically considered permitted developments, as long as the work is internal and does not involve enlarging the building. There are however restrictions to certain buildings, such as those in conservation areas. We recommend checking with your local authority or the Planning Portal website.

Garage Conversion Ideas

If you are considering converting your garage into usable living space, you may already have a good idea of exactly what you want. However, if you want some inspiration to best maximise your space, we have put together a list of the best garage conversion ideas.

Some of the most popular garage conversion ideas include:

• Additional Bedroom: Bedrooms are one of the most popular garage conversion ideas. Converting a garage is a great way to add an extra bedroom or two.
• Split Garage: If you have a double garage, you can convert half into living space, such as a bedroom, whilst still retaining a garage space for your car.
• Extended Living Room: Many garages are built next to the living room area, and knocking through a wall is a great way to expand your lounge room.
• Bathroom: If your property doesn’t have a bathroom downstairs (or perhaps needs an additional toilet), you can convert part of your garage.
• Larger Kitchen: Whilst it may seem unusual, but moving or extending your kitchen into the garage area is one of the cheapest extension options.
• Home Office: If you run your own business or work from home and need your own space, a converted garage may be the perfect option.

Home Extension Alternatives

As well as converting a garage, there are a number of other ways to extend your home and improve your living space. It is always a good idea to consider these extension options, as they may be a better fit for your home or a more affordable alternative to converting a garage.

Some of the most popular home extensions include:

• Conservatory or Orangery
• Loft Conversion
• Basement Conversion
• Barn Conversion
• Garden Room
• Home Extension

Money Saving Tips

We love helping UK consumers save more on their home improvements. To ensure you receive the cheapest garage conversion deals, we have put together some helpful tips and tricks.