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Garage conversions are becoming increasingly popular across the UK as homeowners opt to utilize the space they already have, as opposed to moving homes. A standard single garage is approximately 150 sq ft., too small to be able to open the doors of a family saloon but a lot of extra living space if converted to become an integral part of a house.
Even those with a double garage are choosing to do what is called a 'part conversion' where typically the front or rear of the garage might be retained to house the lawnmower or bicycle whilst the rest of the garage is converted into a useable room. Converting a cold and under-utilized garage into a warm and habitable room is not the only benefit; a garage conversion can add significantly value to your property.
New rules covering whether or not you can extend or add to your home without having to apply for planning permission came into force on 1 October 2008.
The limits and conditions for what is allowed without the need for planning permission apply largely to the dimensions of the proposed addition, its position on the house and its proximity to your boundaries.
Under the new regulations the conversion of a garage on property that is not within designated land is considered permitted development, not requiring an application for planning permission, providing certain limits and conditions are met. Designated land includes national parks and the Broads, Areas of outstanding Natural Beauty, Conservation areas and Word Heritage Sites.
Planning permission is not required if:
There are cases when permitted development rights have been removed from some properties with regard to garage conversions, particularly if you live on a new housing development. it is important to be informed of the relevant planning permission and regulations before commencing work.
You will need Planning Permission for:
You may also need Planning Permission if you live on a new housing development. (See above).
At Drawing and Planning, our consultants have extensive knowledge and expertise in the numerous and varying Planning Articles, Directions and restrictions of all Local Authorities.
Our team of consultants would be glad to assist you with any query you may have regarding your Garage Conversion.
Should you need Garage Conversion planning permission, we would be glad to assist you with all elements of your application.
If you would require drawing only, our in house architects can provide you withdetailed existing and proposed drawings for all types of Garage Conversions.
Planning permission for a garage conversion to make it an inhabitable area is generally not requires, as long as all of the work for the conversion project is being done along the interior of the garage. Also, if the conversion does not require an enlargement of the building, planning permissions will not be required. If the integrity of the building is going to be sacrificed during the conversion, then planning permissions will be needed.
Properties that have had development rights removed will need to contact the planning authorities. Normally, if you reside in a brand new housing area or live in a conversation area, your plans to alter your garage will need to be approved by the planning authority, before any alterations on this area of the home can be performed.
Do I need planning permission for a garage conversion? Usually, planning permissions are not required as long as your conversion is not going to affect the exterior surface of the home; once the exterior surface of the home starts being tampered with, then planning permissions will be required.
Permitted development for garage conversions requires an approval with the building regulations. In order to make the area a habitable space for someone to reside in, you will need the proper flooring, an in fill door, some walls that are below ground level, and proper ventilation.