[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]For growing families, one of the principal reasons to move house is to gain additional accommodation. Market conditions have not been easy for the last year or two and an alternative solution is to convert an attached or integral garage facility into habitable accommodation.
Planning permission is not usually required, providing the work is internal and the building is not being enlarged, but it will, be necessary to comply with the ‘building regulations’.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]The floors in an attached garage will typically be some 100-150 mm lower than the internal floor level in the main property. Thus, a further concrete floor screed laid over a damp-proof membrane and incorporating insulation may be required.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”1583″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The removal of the garage door necessitates that a wall is constructed on foundations the depth of which depends on the type of subsoil and proximity of any nearby trees. The new wall will require thermal insulation and the inclusion of a horizontal damp proof course.
Existing enclosing walls are likely to require substantial upgrading. Any new window or door will have to meet FENSA standards, and glazing may have to be toughened.
Ventilation is normally provided by an opening window, with a minimum area of one-twentieth of the size of the room.
The roofs may require upgrading to ensure weather-tightness and structural integrity. Flat roofs should be insulated with at least 10 inches of fibreglass quilting (or its equivalent). Some forms of insulation can be laid above the roof decking – these known as ‘warm’ roofs.
Some conversions may include sanitary appliances these are connected to the foul drains and the connection must be made strictly in accordance with building regulations.
The electrical installation will probably require extension with the addition of more power outlets. All electrical work should be undertaken by a ‘competent person’ under Part P of the building regulations.
The cost of moving house can be very substantial but the conversion of a garage into habitable accommodation is very often much cheaper. Typically, a garage conversion could cost upwards of £10,000, though of course costs may vary depending on specification and size.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Chris Ennis FRICS is a Chartered Surveyor Tel: 01903 261217 email: surveyor1@talktalk.net www.propdoctor.co.uk[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
