Garage Conversion Cost 2024

A garage conversion is a cost-effective solution to add more usable space to your home. For many homeowners, the garage is often just a space filled with random objects, rarely serving its intended purpose of housing a car. Therefore, why not use it for something? An extra kitchen, bedroom, or a gym? Doing this can increase your living area and boost your property’s market value.

Though significant, a garage conversion requires thoughtful planning and consideration. Several factors come into play, from understanding the legal requirements to making a budget. To help with this, we have created this garage conversion cost guide for 2024. After reading the below, you should know whether the extension costs are worth the price.

Why Consider a Garage Conversion?

Benefits of Converting Your Garage Into a Living Space

Like most house extensions, garage conversions offer homeowners several benefits, including:

Space Without Sacrifice: Expand your living area without reducing valuable outdoor space.
Minimised Household Disruption: Garage conversions often cause less disruption to daily life compared to significant home extensions.
Cost-Effective Expansion: Garage conversions are more affordable and may have fewer planning hurdles.

Alternative to Relocation: A garage conversion provides a sensible solution for homeowners seeking more space without moving.

Understanding Garage Conversion Costs

Average Garage Conversion Cost

For a standard 16m² structure, the average cost of a garage conversion in the UK ranges from £10,000 to £20,000 for integrated and detached garages.

Garage Type	Cost + VAT (Range Low – High)	Average Cost
DIY garage conversion	£4,500 – £10,000	£7,250
Partial garage conversion	£5,500 – £8,500	£7,000
Integral garage conversion cost	£10,000 – £14,000	£12,000
Garage conversion cost	£10,000 – £20,000	£15,000
Attached garage conversion cost	£10,000 – £20,000	£15,000
Carport to garage conversion cost	£10,500 – £22,000	£16,250
Detached garage conversion cost	£15,000 – £25,000	£20,000
Double garage conversion cost (Based on 36m²)	£20,500 (integral) – £45,000 (detached)	£32,750

These prices are based on a 16m² garage conversion and include the basic fit-out costs. It is assumed that insulation and screed will be added above the existing slab and that the current services are adequate for the scope of the works.

Costs typically cover blocking the garage door and insulating existing external walls. However, it is important to note that these estimates do not account for moving any meter boxes, creating new doorways to exterior walls, or adding kitchen and bathroom fixtures.

Cost of Garage Conversion in the UK vs Other Regions

Knowing that the price can differ depending on where you get a garage conversion is important. The main reasons behind this are the cost of living and transportation costs (tolls, etc.). This isn’t just for garage conversions, also, this is for all house extensions in London and other cities.

Below is an overview of the different construction per square meter in the UK across various cities:

City	Cost per sq. m (£)	2022 Inflation (%)	2023 Inflation (%)	Wages / Hour (£)
London	3,137	10	4.0	42.47
Manchester	2,504	10	4.0	37.50
Edinburgh	2,425	8	3.5	35.97
Bristol	2,410	10	4.0	34.50
Leeds	2,350	9.5	3.5	38.25
Birmingham	2,336	8.0	3.5	36.75
Glasgow	2,309	8.0	3.5	34.25
Newcastle	2,275	10.0	4.0	34.75
Belfast	2,259	11.0	2.0	33.83

Factors Influencing Garage Conversion Costs

Type of Garage Conversion

Like any type of extension, whether a front house extension or a garage extension, the type comes at varying price tags. Here is a quick breakdown of the typical costs involved:

Attached is the Garage Conversion Cost

The attached garages are the UK’s top conversion choice due to existing utilities and the potential to expand your living space. Basic conversions cost around £10,000 – £20,000, but significant structural changes will increase the price.

Integral Garage Conversion Cost

Integral garages are built into your home, making conversions cost-effective due to minimal structural changes. Expect to pay around £10,000 – £14,000 for a budget-friendly way to gain extra living space.

Detached Garage Conversion Cost

Converting a detached garage is costlier since you will need to install utilities and reinforce the structure. However, it offers the benefit of a separate space ideal for a home office, guest suite, or hobby room. For the detached garage conversion cost in the UK, expect to pay somewhere around £15,000 – £25,000.

Double Garage Conversion Cost

Double garages offer significant space for larger conversions like a spacious living room, kitchen-diner, or even a bedroom with an ensuite. Converting an integral double garage starts at around £20,500, while a detached double garage conversion could cost more.

Partial Garage Conversion Cost

Partial conversions are a wonderful way to gain extra living space (like a small gym) while still keeping some garage storage. This cost-effective option typically runs from £5,500 to £8,500.

Garage-to-Bedroom Conversion Cost

A garage-to-bedroom conversion is simply when you convert your garage into a bedroom. It’s great for growing families and much more affordable than moving. The cost to convert a garage to a living space, like a bedroom, is anywhere form £10,000 – £20,000, with additional features like an ensuite bathroom increasing the price.

Carport-to-Garage Conversion Cost

Unlike the above garage-to-room conversion costs, you can also turn an open carport into an enclosed garage. While you will not gain living space, you get a new garage space. If you go for this, expect conversion costs to range between £10,500 – £22,000.

Size of Conversion

Also, naturally, the size of your garage influences the overall conversion cost.

Small Conversion

Project: Adding a small home office or utility room within a portion of the garage.
Size: 6-8m²
Estimated Cost: Around £5,000 – £10,000 (potentially lower with minimal electrical/plumbing work)

Medium Conversion

Project: Converting the standard-sized garage into a single room (bedroom, living area, etc.)
Size: 16m²
Estimated Cost: £10,000 – £20,000

Large Conversion

Project: Double garage conversion, knocking down garage walls for open-plan living space, or a multi-room conversion.
Size: 30m²+
Estimated cost: £25,000+ (Can change based on project scope, materials, and structural changes)

Location

Garage conversion prices change depending on where you live in the UK because:

Market Demand: Areas with high demand for construction services, such as London and other major cities, naturally experience higher costs. This stems from both the volume of projects and the higher operating expenses for contractors in these locations.
Material and Labor Accessibility: Remote or rural areas may face increased costs due to challenges in sourcing materials and skilled labour. However, these higher costs may be partially offset by a lower overall cost of living in such regions.
Regulatory Framework: Planning permissions and building regulations differ across regions. Conversions impacting conservation areas or listed buildings often need extra paperwork and compliance.
Regional Cost of Living: Areas with a higher cost of living translate to higher labour costs within the construction industry. These wage differences influence the price of your garage conversion project.

Cost Breakdown: From Planning to Completion

Planning and Design Costs

The cost during this stage varies hugely, depending on who you need to hire and what you can do yourself. However, typically, most homeowners will need to pay for the following:

Architect: £50 – £100 per hour if you hire one.
Party Wall Agreement: £700 – £1,000 per neighbour if your garage shares a wall.
Building Notice Application: £206 from local authorities.
Planning Permission: £624 if required for your project and location.

Construction Costs

Labour Costs

When converting your garage, one big expense is labour. Typically, it hovers around the following:

Plumber: £325 – £375 per day
Kitchen fitter: £250 – £350 per day
Joiner: £240 – £360 per day
Electrician: £400 per day
Plasterer: £300 per day
Window fitter: £25 – £35 per hour

Materials

Material costs also vary. Here are some examples to give you a general idea:

Kitchen Garage Conversions

Kitchen Appliance/Unit	Average Cost Per Unit
Fridge/freezer	£600
Cooker	£450
Washing machine	£350
Dishwasher	£300
Tumble dryer	£400
Laminate worktops	£18-£35 per m2
Solid wood worktops	£65-£110 per m2
Granite worktops	£150 per m2 upwards

Bathroom Garage Conversions

Bathroom Appliance/Unit	Average Cost Per Unit
Toilet	£90-£260
Pedestal basin	£65
Bath (standard)	£180
Shower cubicle	£200-£300
Power shower	£90-£130

Additional Expenses

Type of Material/Equipment	Average Cost Per Unit
Vinyl flooring	£18 per m²
Wooden flooring	£30 per m²
Underfloor heating: dry system	£75 per m²
Underfloor heating: wet system	£600 (incl. thermostats, pipes)
Tiles 600x300mm	£12 per m²
1m x 1m double glazed window	£120
Plain UPVC door	£300
Damp proofing (single garage)	£140
2.4m x 1.2m insulation board	£12
4 – 6 bar spotlights	£40-£65
Wall lights	£22 each
Downlights (mounted in ceiling)	£8 each

Legal Considerations & Costs

Most garage conversions fall under Permitted Development rights, meaning you will not need full planning permission. However, always double-check with your local council, especially if you live in a conservation area.

All garage conversions must comply with Building Regulations. A Building Notice (around £206) will suffice for simple changes. Significant projects require a complete application, with costs varying based on the work involved.

Alongside the above, if your conversion affects a shared wall with a neighbour, the Party Wall Act applies. You will need a Party Wall Agreement (£700-£1,000 per neighbour).

Types of Garage Conversions and Their Costs

Attached vs. detached garage conversion cost

Attached garages often offer the most budget-friendly conversions due to their existing utilities and potential to become part of your main living space – (£10,000 – £20,000). On the other hand, detached garages involve more expense since you will need to bring in utilities and may require structural reinforcement. However, they offer fantastic potential for creating genuinely separate spaces – (£15,000 – £25,000)

Single vs. double garage conversion cost

Single garages make for more affordable conversions, mainly if you aim for a smaller, functional room. A single-garage conversion cost is around £7,000 – £20,000. Double garages, while significantly more expensive, offer better flexibility in terms of design and the potential for larger, more complex living areas. A double-garage conversion costs around £15,000 – £55,000, depending on whether it is attached or detached.

Specialised conversions Costs

Converting a garage into a bedroom is a practical solution for changing family needs or accessibility concerns – (£10,000 – £20,000, with costs increasing if you add an ensuite). However, the price depends heavily on your chosen layout – (£20,500+ for integral double, £45,000+ for detached double).

Planning Your Garage Conversion

Do You Need Planning Permission?

Since garage conversions are primarily internal, you usually will not need planning permission. However, sometimes you do. You may need planning permission for a garage in the following situations:

Separate Dwelling: Turning your garage into a self-contained living space requires permission.
External Changes: Altering the roofline, adding large windows, or impacting your home’s overall appearance might need approval.
Special Designations: Listed buildings and conservation areas have stricter regulations.

Hiring the Right Team

Choosing the right professionals for your garage conversion is critical for a successful and stress-free project. Here is why:

Understanding Building Regulations: Expert builders know the ins and outs of Building Regulations. This ensures your conversion is beautiful but also safe and compliant, avoiding costly mistakes or delays.
Technical Expertise: Garage conversions sometimes involve structural changes, plumbing, and electrical work. Experienced professionals handle these elements expertly, preventing future problems.
Problem-Solving: Even the best-laid plans can have hiccups. A seasoned team can anticipate challenges and offer creative solutions, keeping your project on track.
Design Sensibility: A skilled designer can help realise your vision, maximising your garage’s potential while considering practical constraints.

Garage Conversion with Fittra: Why Choose Us?

Your Most Convenient Construction Company in West London

At Fittra, we are your trusted London-based building experts. With over 10 years of experience, we bring quality and value to your home. We are NHBC-registered for your peace of mind, and our network of architects, engineers, and specialists ensures a smooth process from concept to completion.

Our Services: Extensions, Loft Conversions, Renovations, and More

At Fittra, we have helped countless London homeowners get more from their homes through our services:

House Renovation: Assessing your goals, creating a plan, and managing and executing the complete renovation process.
New Build: Designing your ideal London home from planning permission from complete construction.
House and Garage Extensions: Transforming existing spaces into beautiful, functional living areas.

The Fittra Advantage: NHBC Registration, Comprehensive Services, Customer Satisfaction

Fittra is proud to be registered with the National Home Builder’s Council, demonstrating our dedication to high standards. Our comprehensive services cover everything from initial consultation through completion – and ensure customer satisfaction every step of the way.

Easy, Stress-Free Process with Fittra: From Free Consultancy to Project Completion

We believe in making the construction process as straightforward and stress-free as possible. Here is what you can expect when working with us:

Free schedule of works and detailed cost breakdowns.
A low initial deposit of only 10%.
Accreditations from NFB, FMB, NHBC, TrustMark, and Considerate Constructors.
Accessible customer service that is available any time, any day.
An integrated, internal team that ensures consistency and quality.
We pass trade discounts directly onto you.
Comprehensive insurance coverage, including £5M public and products liability and £10M employer’s liability.

With Fittra, you are not just choosing a builder. You are choosing peace of mind. Our quality craftsmanship and dedicated team ensure your garage conversion exceeds expectations. Contact us today for a garage conversion quote today.

Key Considerations for a Successful Garage Conversion

Design and Aesthetics

When designing or outsourcing your design to an architect, you need a general idea of what you want. Here are some tips you should consider when planning the design and aesthetic of your garage conversion.

Plan and Measure: Carefully measure your converted garage. Use sketches or floor plans to try out different layouts and find the best traffic flow for your needs.
Use Vertical Space: Look upwards. Wall-mounted shelving and displays make the most of the space you have. Arrange products in an organised and visually appealing way.
Create Open Pathways: Avoid clutter and ensure clear walkways through your converted space. This encourages visitors to explore and interact with what you are offering.
Opt for Multi-Functional Furniture: Choose pieces that serve double duty. Think tables with storage, seating that doubles as display space, etc.
Use Lighting Strategically: Spotlights highlight essential items or areas. LED lights are energy-efficient and provide excellent illumination to make your space inviting.

Budgeting and Cost Management

Managing your garage conversion budget is critical to getting the space you want without breaking the bank. Here are some tips:

Use A Reliable Contractor

A contractor’s past work matters – but so does their approach to budgeting. Ask how they manage costs and plan projects. You want someone who provides accurate estimates, anticipates potential hiccups, and stays on schedule.

Consider Materials Carefully

The cheapest is not always the best—factor in installation costs and long-term durability alongside the initial material price. Sometimes, investing a bit more now saves money later.

Consider Long-Term Costs

Do not just budget for the initial build. Energy efficiency matters. Better insulation and appliances might cost more upfront but save you significantly on utility bills for years. Plus, quality materials and construction lower the risk of costly repairs.

Simplify The Design

Complex plans = complex builds, making it harder to stay on budget. Opting for a more straightforward design often lets you afford higher-quality materials and have a fantastic result.

Conclusion

As you have probably learned by now, the cost of converting a garage varies based on numerous factors – size, scope of project and materials selected are just a few examples.

Alongside this, choosing a construction company can make or break your experience. When searching for garage conversion specialists, quality commitment and clear communication practices are important criteria.

The company you are looking for is Fittra. If you would like to know more about how we can help, consider contacting us today.

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Team at Fittra possesses all the attributes necessary to be an excellent contractor: they know their market extremely well; they are diligent, responsive, and yet very understanding with their clients. They are very professional and offer cost saving alternatives when possible. The thing that has impressed me the most is the professionalism, knowledge and helpfulness of all the workers. Hanwell, New Build

We did our house fully renovation last year July 2019 – December 2019 with Fittra. We are very pleased with the results – our new kitchen (rear extension with lantern roof light), loft conversion, hardwood flooring, underfloor heating, tiling and etc.. Ivan and his team are truly professional. They finished the job with timely manner and customer satisfaction. Their breakdown quotes are easy to understand and easy to work with. We are highly recommended for Ivan, Igor and the team. Great job!!! Isleworth

The work that Fittra did for me was a full house renovation – this did not include any new build or extension work but it did include moving a number of internal load bearing walls and extending external openings to install large sliding doors. The work was reasonably complex structurally as the upper floor is steel beam and concrete block construction. Externally all windows and doors were changed, guttering and fascias were changed and a new tiled deck constructed to give an outside/inside feel. Internally, walls were moved, new door openings created or widened to give a modern open plan look and feel. Maidenhead

Fittra completed a rear extension, loft conversion and full refurbishment of our house in Ealing late last year. This included new bathrooms, heating system (including underfloor heating), electrics and plumbing. When obtaining quotes, Fittra’s prices were in the middle of the three companies who came back to us with costs, but the fact that it was fully itemised (unlike the other costs we received) gave us piece of mind that we knew exactly what we were getting for our money. Ealing

Can’t speak highly enough of Fittra and the job they did. They completed a rear extension, side return and loft extension and pretty much a full refurbishment of our house and garden in SW London. They not only did an incredible job, but they were also great to work with too. Vadym and Ivan’s team were incredibly efficient and hardworking and really amenable and collaborative. I have recommended them to a few friends subsequently, and will continue to do so. Wandsworth

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FAQs About Double Storey Extensions

Can a garage conversion be done without planning permission?

Sometimes, yes. Garage conversions fall under “Permitted Development” rights and do not require full planning approval from your local council. However, it is always important to double-check with them, as there may be instances where authorisation might be needed.

How do you finance a garage conversion in the UK?

Options include:

Mortgages
Remortgages
Further advances
Equity release
Personal loans
Self-funding

What are the common mistakes to avoid during a garage conversion?

We would say that the top 3 common mistakes consist of the following:

Choosing the wrong contractor
Underestimating costs
Overlooking regulations

How does a garage conversion impact home insurance premiums?

Converting a garage can increase your home’s rebuild cost. As a result, in case of an accident, such as a fire or flood, the insurance company will pay more – resulting in you having higher premiums.

Are there any specific building regulations for converting a garage into a living space?

Yes. Including:

Fire safety measures
Adequate ventilation
Thermal insulation for floors, walls, and lofts
Soundproofing
Certified electrical work
Structural integrity assessments

How long does it typically take to complete a garage conversion project?

An average conversion can take three to six weeks, depending on its scope and complexity.

Can I convert my garage into a separate dwelling unit for rental purposes?

You can turn your garage into an independent unit to rent out for rental purposes. However, full approval for planning by your council could be required. Additionally, any conversion must be in compliance with Building Regulations and multi-family occupancy Zoning restrictions.

How do you choose between a garage conversion and building an extension?

It all depends on your end goal. We recommend that you consider:

The intended use of the additional space
Your budget (garage conversions are usually cheaper)
Planning permission requirements
The impact on your lifestyle during construction

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