Award winning local builders in Exeter

Why We Love Garage Conversions in Exeter

September 25, 2023

The Silver Fern team love helping Exeter homeowners with their garage conversions because theyโ€™re such a quick and simple way to add extra living space.  The main structure is already in place and the transformation from garage/storage space to inspirational living area is complete in just a few weeks.  Here are more reasons why we love garage conversions and the advantages of transforming your garage into a functional and valuable space.

1. Increased Living Space:

One of the key benefits of a garage conversion is the opportunity to create additional living space. Many garages are left unused or become a dumping ground for clutter. Converting this often neglected area into a useful room, such as an extra bedroom, home office, gym, or even a playroom, can significantly increase the overall functionality of your home.  Compared with an extension, garage conversions donโ€™t affect the natural light entering other parts of your home, inevitable when side or rear extensions are built in front of original door or window openings.

2. Cost-Effective Solution:

Compared to other home extension options, garage conversions are generally a more cost-effective solution. Since the basic structure and foundations of the garage are already in place, you can save on construction costs, making it an affordable way to add value to your property. By utilising an existing structure, you can also minimise the hassle and disruption associated with building an extension from scratch. 

3. Hassle Free:

The Silver Fern team is able to work within the garage area itself until the last minute if any knock through is required to the main house, this may be just a doorway or a larger opening to create an open plan space.

4. No Increase in Council Tax:

One of the advantages of converting a garage is that it usually does not have a direct impact on council tax. In most cases, this type of conversion is considered a permitted development, meaning it does not require planning permission. 

5. Enhanced Property Value:

In the UK's competitive housing market, adding a garage conversion can significantly increase the value of your home. Potential buyers are often drawn to versatile living spaces, and a well-executed garage conversion can enhance your property's appeal and desirability. This added value can make a significant difference should you ever decide to sell your home.

6. Versatility and Adaptability:

Here are some questions we often get asked about garage conversions:

  1. Do I need planning permission to convert my garage? No, most garage conversions can be carried out under permitted development, read  more here; https://www.silverferndevelopments.co.uk/what-is-permitted-development/ unless the building is listed or you are in a conservation area in which case it is worth checking with your local planning authority.
  2. How much does it cost to convert a garage?  It is much more cost effective to convert your garage compared with an extension.  A good guide price is ยฃ15000 to ยฃ25000 and a lot will depend on finishes such as flooring as well as installation of utilities for shower rooms, WCs, sinks and washing machines etc if needed.
  3. What is the cheapest way to convert a garage?  Selecting options such as timber frame for the inner skin of the new room and choosing windows instead of patio doors can help manage costs.  We have lots of other suggestions if you want to manage your garage conversion budget.
  4. Do I need building regs to convert my garage into a room? We would recommend that you do engage with building control so that you have the necessary documentation to classify the space as living accommodation rather than garage/storage space.  This is especially necessary if you decide to sell the property as solicitors will require confirmation that all alterations comply with building regulations.

Now you can see why we love garage conversions!  Silver Fern clients have converted their garages to gyms, playrooms, guest bedrooms with ensuites as well as knocking through from the garage into the main house to create open plan kitchen/living space.  If you live in Exeter or surrounding areas and are thinking about converting your garage space into living accommodation, call Matt on 01392 703373 for a chat and a free quotation.

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Letโ€™s talk! Tell us how you want to upgrade your space or create new space and we can arrange a visit to answer your key questions.

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