Garage Conversion Advice for a Newbie

Nazitf

Hi,

I'm looking to convert my adjoining garage into a bedroom with an en-suite. I have already checked that no planning permission is required however the work will need to conform with the buildings regulations.

How do I go about getting this work done? I'm aware that there are garage conversion companies but can an ordinary builder also do this sort of work? How does one select a good company? What things should be asked when they give a quote for the work? Never done anything like this before so any advice would be appreciated.

fwor

A lot depends on how much you want to do yourself.

If you employ a company the specialises in garage conversions, you're likely to pay a premium. If on the other hand you are willing to do research on building regs, there's no reason why you should not instruct any competent builder.

Obviously you get best value for money if you engage separate trades yourself, rather than have the builder bring in an electrician, for example.

Beware of one of things that often gets overlooked: the strict regulations on insulation for living space these days. A neighbour of mine had to have the flat roof on his garage raised to accommodate enough insulation, and that cost him a lot of money.

SailorSam

When you're walking/driving around where you live if you see any extensions or conversions that you like the look of, knock ans ask the people about the builder and what they think of him.

27col

I did mine myself. Not particularly difficult. Quite an interesting project actually.