What to expect during a single-storey rear extension
A clear, practical overview of the stages, site routines and everyday impacts of a single-storey rear extension in…
Many garages are used for storage rather than cars, which makes them ideal for conversion. Because the walls, roof and foundations already exist, a garage conversion is often quicker and less disruptive than an extension.
What we check first
- Foundations under the garage door opening, where the new wall will sit.
- Walls – many garages have a single skin of brick or block that needs insulating and protecting from damp.
- Floor levels – garage floors are usually lower than the house and need raising, insulating and damp-proofing.
- The roof – flat garage roofs often need replacing as part of the project.
- Planning conditions – on some estates, the original planning permission removed the right to convert the garage without permission.
Common uses
Family rooms and playrooms, home offices, ground-floor bedrooms with shower rooms, larger kitchens or utility rooms. For a fully self-contained annexe, see our granny annexe conversions.
Building regulations
Converting a garage into a habitable room needs building regulations approval. Building control checks the foundations of the new wall, damp-proofing, insulation, ventilation, fire safety and escape windows. We arrange this and make sure you receive the completion certificate.
Making it feel like part of the house
The best garage conversions do not look like converted garages. That means matching the brickwork or render where the door was, choosing a window that suits the front of the house, and getting the floor level right so there is no awkward step.
