Garage Conversions

Article 246 [ added on 22-09-2009, updated on 20-07-2010 ]

 

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Planning Permission  

Under normal circumstance most Garage Conversions will not require Planning Permission provided the “permitted development” allowance has not been used up or removed from the dwelling.

If the dwelling is situated in a “designated area” i.e. Conservation Area, Listed Building, National Park or Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Planning and other permissions may be required.

Building Regulations

Most attached and integral garages lend them selves to conversion to a habitable room.

The main issues are thermal insulation and weather resistance.

Thermal Insulation

The walls, roof and floor should, as far as is practical, be brought up to current standards. As far as the walls are concerned a new inner leaf of lightweight block work with an insulated cavity provides the best solution. This new inner leaf may require a new foundation if the existing garage floor is inadequate.

The upgrading of thermal insulation to the roof a floor will very much depend on site circumstances.

Weather Resistance

All external elements must now provide adequate resistance to water penetration. If the floor is not water tight a damp proof membrane must be installed. This may involve the excavation and reconstruction of the floor.

The roof and walls should be assessed and suitable remedial measures applied.

Further Matters

All new electrical installations must be carried out to safety standards and certificated.

If means of escape is an issue the window that usually replaces the garage door must have an opening light suitable for escape. 

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