Do I need building regulations approval for my garage conversion?
Converting a garage is a great way to make the most of your existing space and add value to your home. Watch this video on garage conversions and building regulations to find out more.
Garage conversion considerations
A garage converted to make a living space, whether that's a home office, cinema or even a new kitchen, is a complex building project and you should seek professional advice from an architect or building contractor and check with your local council building control team before starting. Particular attention will need to be paid to the following when drawing up plans:
- Foundations – often the foundations of a garage are not deep enough to handle the extra weight of floors, walls and ceilings so will need to be tested to see what strengthening is needed. Infilling door opening – should include suitable foundations, damp course, weather proofing and insulation.
- Structural strength – often garage walls are of a single layer of bricks which may not be suitable to carry an additional floor, new roof or additional insulation.
- Weather proofing and insulation – the garage will need to be weather proofed and insulated if it is to be used as a living space.
- Windows and ventilation – windows will need to meet minimum energy efficiency standards and have adequate ventilation provided. Watch our video on garage conversion to find out more.
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