-
Garage Conversion ‘permission to change use’
Garage Conversion ‘permission to change use’
Looking to convert Garage into a bedroom and ensuite.
We will need ‘permission to change use’. Anyone else gone through this? Does it require an architect to draw up design. The external change of a window will surly need permission.
How much do these designs and permissions cost approx?
-
4 Replies
-
No you don’t need any architect but you do need permission from you local council, I you want to do everything lawfully . I have did recent plz have look . Garage conversion in mk
-
Generally you DO NOT need PP for a garage conversion. However, you will always require Building Regulations if you are converting it to a habitable room
There are 2 ways of applying for BR approval.
1. BUILDING NOTICE – Fill in a form, pay a fee, crack on with the work No drawings/ specification, just your trust in a builder who is up to speed on CURRENT Regs
FULL PLANS – Fill out a form, pay a fee and have drawings/specification ready for inspection/ approval. These plans are then used as “instructions” on how the project is constructed
It’s entirely your call.
ps No need for an architect an architectural technician will suffice
-
You’ll often find that converting an attached garage into a bedroom with an ensuite falls under permitted development, so planning permission isn’t always required. What you will almost certainly need though is Building Regulations approval because you’re turning it into a habitable room. That covers things like insulation, ventilation, drainage, fire safety and structural elements.
Adding a new window on the front can sometimes require planning permission depending on the property and location, but side or rear windows are often fine. If the property is in a conservation area, the garage is detached, or permitted development rights have been removed, then you may need to submit a full planning application.
You don’t necessarily need an architect. A lot of people use a garage conversion company or if you’re doing it yourself then you don’t need an architects drawings. As a rough guide, drawings for planning or building regulations are usually somewhere around £500 to £1,500 depending on who you use. Building Control fees are typically in the region of £400 to £900 depending on the council or whether you use a private inspector.
It’s also worth checking early on things like the garage floor level compared to the house, insulation requirements, drainage for the ensuite and whether there are any drains or manholes inside the garage.
If it helps, I’ve put together a step by step guide and checklist that explains the whole garage conversion process and permissions in simple terms. I’m happy to send you the link if you’d like.
Hope this helps
-
Garage conversion can be a bit tricky as it depends on whether the council treats it as a change of use and whether the external window alteration affects permitted development. It’s usually best to get an architect to review it properly before applying so you avoid issues with planning or building control.
Log in to reply.