Garage Conversion Cost Guide – How Much do Garage Conversions Cost?

Garage Conversion Cost Summary

Price Range = £4,995 to £7,000

Average Cost = £6,098

Cheapest Price = £4,995

Many homeowners have garages that they barely use, meaning that precious space is going to waste each day.  You can increase the size of your home by simply using this neglected space, but many people wonder about the cost of converting a detached garage into extra living space.  We have found that the benefits far outweigh the garage conversion costs.  So what are they?

When people ask “How much do garage conversions cost?” they need to take into account the wide-ranging benefits of this type of home improvement.  The benefits are clear – you could soon have a new playroom, lounge, bedroom or study for your family home instead of junk room and unused space. It is also easier to convert a detached garage than to convert an attic, loft or basement area, since the walls and floor are already exactly where they need to be.  Therefore, the garage conversion can be cost effective and relatively good value for money.

Average Cost of Garage Conversion – things to consider

But how much is a garage conversion? Well, there’s no absolute way of knowing without a proper and thorough assessment of your property, but generally speaking the final cost of a garage conversion will depend on a number of different factors, including the following:

• The condition of the existing structure; if alterations need to be made in walls and/or the frame attaching the garage to the home, this can potentially set you back another £5,000 in garage conversion prices. Your local authority also may require planning permission.
• The room you want your garage converted into. Living rooms and bedroom generally require fewer additional fittings and fixtures, and therefore cost less; while new kitchens, bathrooms or utility rooms require greater access to water and electricity, and can therefore significantly increase garage conversions cost. You might want to consider hiring structural engineer for the job.
• The size of the garage. Obviously the larger the space, the more materials you will need and the longer the project will take; hence the increase in a double garage building cost, or those attached to sizeable detached properties outside of the city.
• Whether or not you hire a project manager and/or architect. Although they can prove to be pretty expensive, hiring these professional architects and project managers can help keep your renovation on track and provide expert advice on how things should be restructured – which potentially could be more cost effective solution.
• The materials and/or labour you purchase and hire. Although you want good quality construction items and a reliable workforce who won’t let you down, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t keep an eye out for the best deals on the market. Also try not to buy any more than you need, even if it means additional shopping during the course of the renovation.
• The position of existing utilities. Moving around and/or repairing and replacing pipes and wiring so you have streamlined access to water, heating and electricity outlets can set you back anything between £1,000 and £3,000.
• The height of the existing floor. If this is lower or not on the same gradient as the main section of the property, it will need to be adjusted accordingly, either with an extra layer of flooring (i.e. a cement layer) or via the installation of steps. 

How Do Garage Conversions Work Best?

When converting a garage, it is essential to consult a good builder who will advise you about the best use of space.  Most detached garages tend to be long and narrow, so adding a WC at the rear can improve the proportions and maximise the room’s extra living space.

You might even add in a shower, if creating a guest bedroom – a very popular garage conversion idea.  It will help to have a conventional gravity drainage system but if not a pump will work and you can install an extractor fan for ventilation.

That aside, you might need to consider laying new foundation, building stud walls, remodelling flat roofs, changing door positions in relation to staircase and furniture plans – an experienced tradesman will plan for all this in the garage conversion cost. Good structural engineer will ensure that permitted development is acquired if necessary.

Garage Conversion Costs, Savings and Maintenance

How much will a garage conversion cost?

The precise cost will be determined by the style of the actual conversion and the contractor that you use – so getting some good quotes is essential.

Various factors affect the material cost of garage conversions including the size and condition of the existing structure, the necessity of structural adjustments, the type of new room required, plus any additional insulation, plumbing or wiring.

When people wonder ‘how much would a garage conversion cost?’ they should rest assured that the average cost of garage conversion in the UK stands at between just £4995 and £7000.

Savings from Garage Conversions

You can save thousands when you compare the integral garage conversion cost to that of building a completely new extension. Moreover, your garage conversion cost could be fully absorbed by the increase in the value of your property.

You can maximise the savings benefits by being selective about who you hire to carry out your garage conversion.  Shop around through us and research the different garage conversion prices on offer and you could save both time and money.

Do Garage Conversions Require Maintenance?

Detached garage conversions cost no more to maintain than other areas of the house that may have drainage, electricity etc.  Your builder will advise you of the best way to ensure that your garage conversion remains in tip-top condition.