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Nottingham Builders
All Aspects of Building Work Completed to a High Level Call Now on 0115-824-3368 Garage Conversions Nottingham | Transform Your Unused Space
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Nottingham Builders: Your Garage Conversion Specialists
Are you looking to add valuable living space to your Nottingham home without the hassle and expense of building an extension? A garage conversion could be the perfect solution. At Nottingham Builders, we specialise in transforming underused garages into beautiful, functional rooms that add real value to your property.
Our expert team has completed countless garage conversions across Nottingham and surrounding areas, helping homeowners like you maximise their existing space. Whether you're dreaming of a home office, extra bedroom, or cosy living area, we'll guide you through every step of the process.
On this page, you'll discover everything you need to know about garage conversions in Nottingham – from planning considerations and design ideas to costs and timeframes. We've drawn on our years of local experience to create a comprehensive guide that answers all your questions.
Our expert team has completed countless garage conversions across Nottingham and surrounding areas, helping homeowners like you maximise their existing space. Whether you're dreaming of a home office, extra bedroom, or cosy living area, we'll guide you through every step of the process.
On this page, you'll discover everything you need to know about garage conversions in Nottingham – from planning considerations and design ideas to costs and timeframes. We've drawn on our years of local experience to create a comprehensive guide that answers all your questions.
Why Convert Your Garage in Nottingham?
Space Optimisation for Nottingham Homes
Most Nottingham homes have garages that aren't being used to their full potential. In fact, a recent survey found that over 65% of UK garages don't even house a car – they've become glorified storage areas for bikes, tools, and those boxes we never quite get around to unpacking.
Converting your garage makes perfect sense in Nottingham, where property prices continue to rise and moving to a larger home can be prohibitively expensive. The average single garage provides around 150 square feet (14m²) of potential living space – that's enough for a generous home office, bedroom, or playroom without giving up any of your garden.
Nottingham's housing stock varies widely, from Victorian terraces to modern estates, but most properties have garages that are ideal for conversion. Semi-detached homes in areas like West Bridgford and Mapperley often have integrated garages that can be seamlessly incorporated into the main living space, while detached properties in Beeston and Wollaton frequently feature larger double garages that offer even more possibilities. click here to be directed to our main website for more great Ideas.
Converting your garage makes perfect sense in Nottingham, where property prices continue to rise and moving to a larger home can be prohibitively expensive. The average single garage provides around 150 square feet (14m²) of potential living space – that's enough for a generous home office, bedroom, or playroom without giving up any of your garden.
Nottingham's housing stock varies widely, from Victorian terraces to modern estates, but most properties have garages that are ideal for conversion. Semi-detached homes in areas like West Bridgford and Mapperley often have integrated garages that can be seamlessly incorporated into the main living space, while detached properties in Beeston and Wollaton frequently feature larger double garages that offer even more possibilities. click here to be directed to our main website for more great Ideas.
Value Addition to Your Nottingham Property
A professionally completed garage conversion can add between 10-20% to your property's value – a significant return on your investment. For the average Nottingham home currently valued at around £240,000, that could mean an additional £24,000-£48,000.
Local estate agents confirm that well-executed garage conversions are highly desirable in Nottingham's competitive property market. Tom Williams from Nottingham Estates notes: "Homes with converted garages typically sell faster and for better prices than similar properties without the additional living space. Buyers are increasingly looking for versatile homes that offer flexible living arrangements.
When compared to other home improvements, garage conversions offer exceptional value. While a typical extension in Nottingham might cost £1,500-£2,000 per square metre, a garage conversion usually comes in at around £600-£1,000 per square metre – making it one of the most cost-effective ways to increase your living space.
Local estate agents confirm that well-executed garage conversions are highly desirable in Nottingham's competitive property market. Tom Williams from Nottingham Estates notes: "Homes with converted garages typically sell faster and for better prices than similar properties without the additional living space. Buyers are increasingly looking for versatile homes that offer flexible living arrangements.
When compared to other home improvements, garage conversions offer exceptional value. While a typical extension in Nottingham might cost £1,500-£2,000 per square metre, a garage conversion usually comes in at around £600-£1,000 per square metre – making it one of the most cost-effective ways to increase your living space.
Council Tax Considerations for Nottingham Residents
One of the major advantages of garage conversions for Nottingham homeowners is that they typically don't affect your council tax band. Unlike extensions that add a new bedroom or significantly increase your property's footprint, converting existing garage space usually falls outside the criteria for council tax reassessment.
This gives garage conversions a significant financial advantage over other home improvement projects. While extending your home might result in higher monthly outgoings through increased council tax payments, a garage conversion adds valuable space without this ongoing cost penalty.
Nottingham City Council assesses properties based on their fundamental size and structure, and internal reorganisation of space rarely triggers a revaluation. However, it's always worth checking with your local authority before starting any conversion project, especially if you're planning to use the space as a separate annexe or for business purposes.
This gives garage conversions a significant financial advantage over other home improvement projects. While extending your home might result in higher monthly outgoings through increased council tax payments, a garage conversion adds valuable space without this ongoing cost penalty.
Nottingham City Council assesses properties based on their fundamental size and structure, and internal reorganisation of space rarely triggers a revaluation. However, it's always worth checking with your local authority before starting any conversion project, especially if you're planning to use the space as a separate annexe or for business purposes.
Popular Garage Conversion Ideas for Nottingham Homes
Home Office Conversions
With remote working becoming the new normal for many Nottingham professionals, dedicated home office space has never been more important. A garage conversion offers the perfect solution – creating a separate workspace that allows you to maintain a healthy boundary between work and home life.
A typical home office conversion includes:
We've completed numerous garage-to-office conversions across Nottingham, particularly in professional areas like The Park and West Bridgford. One client, Sarah from Mapperley, told us: "Converting my garage into a home office was the best decision I've made. I no longer have to work from my dining table, and having a dedicated space has dramatically improved my productivity."
A typical home office conversion includes:
- Professional electrical installation with plenty of sockets for computers and equipment
- High-speed internet connections and dedicated workstations
- Customised storage solutions for files and office supplies
- Natural and artificial lighting designed to reduce eye strain
- Proper insulation and heating for year-round comfort
We've completed numerous garage-to-office conversions across Nottingham, particularly in professional areas like The Park and West Bridgford. One client, Sarah from Mapperley, told us: "Converting my garage into a home office was the best decision I've made. I no longer have to work from my dining table, and having a dedicated space has dramatically improved my productivity."
Additional Living Space Solutions
Many Nottingham families are looking for extra living space without the disruption of moving house. Converting your garage into an additional living area offers the perfect solution, creating versatile space that can adapt to your changing needs.
Popular living space conversions include:
These conversions work particularly well in areas like Wollaton and Gedling, where family homes often have integrated garages that can flow naturally into the main living space. With careful design, nobody would ever know the room was once a garage.
Each living space conversion is unique to the family's needs, but all include proper insulation, heating, lighting, and decoration to create a comfortable, welcoming environment. We pay particular attention to seamlessly integrating the new space with your existing home, ensuring consistent flooring, décor, and architectural details.
Popular living space conversions include:
- Family rooms with media centres and comfortable seating
- Playrooms for growing families with storage for toys and games
- Teenage dens that provide independence while keeping young adults at home
- Guest rooms for visiting friends and family
- Dining rooms for those who love to entertain
These conversions work particularly well in areas like Wollaton and Gedling, where family homes often have integrated garages that can flow naturally into the main living space. With careful design, nobody would ever know the room was once a garage.
Each living space conversion is unique to the family's needs, but all include proper insulation, heating, lighting, and decoration to create a comfortable, welcoming environment. We pay particular attention to seamlessly integrating the new space with your existing home, ensuring consistent flooring, décor, and architectural details.
Specialised Room Conversions
Nottingham homeowners are increasingly looking for space to pursue their hobbies and interests at home. A garage conversion offers the perfect opportunity to create a dedicated area for your passions.
Some of our most popular specialised conversions include:
The beauty of these conversions is that they can be completely tailored to your specific interests. A recent project in Beeston saw us transform a double garage into a photography studio with custom storage, controlled lighting, and a separate area for client consultations.
Many Nottingham professionals in creative industries have found that having a dedicated space for their passion has helped them develop side businesses or even transition to new careers. These specialised rooms add unique character to your home and can be a major selling point if you eventually decide to move.
Some of our most popular specialised conversions include:
- Home gyms with reinforced flooring for equipment and mirrored walls
- Music rooms with acoustic treatment to minimise noise transmission
- Art studios with north-facing windows for optimal natural light
- Gaming rooms with custom storage and entertainment systems
- Home cinemas with soundproofing and specialised lighting
The beauty of these conversions is that they can be completely tailored to your specific interests. A recent project in Beeston saw us transform a double garage into a photography studio with custom storage, controlled lighting, and a separate area for client consultations.
Many Nottingham professionals in creative industries have found that having a dedicated space for their passion has helped them develop side businesses or even transition to new careers. These specialised rooms add unique character to your home and can be a major selling point if you eventually decide to move.
Case Study: Beeston Family's Garage Transformation
The Johnsons in Beeston approached us looking to create more space for their growing family without moving from their beloved neighbourhood. Their double garage was being used primarily for storage, with barely enough room to squeeze past the accumulated clutter.
We worked with them to design a multi-functional space that would serve as a playroom for their young children but could easily transition to other uses as the family grew. The conversion included:
Before the conversion, the garage was cold, dark, and unwelcoming. The finished space is bright, warm, and has become the heart of family life. As Mrs. Johnson told us: "We can't believe we waited so long to convert our garage. The kids absolutely love their new space, and it's freed up our living room for adult conversation in the evenings. It's transformed how we live in our home."
We worked with them to design a multi-functional space that would serve as a playroom for their young children but could easily transition to other uses as the family grew. The conversion included:
- A main play area with durable flooring and plenty of natural light
- Built-in storage solutions for toys and games
- A reading nook with comfortable seating and bookshelves
- A small desk area for homework and creative projects
- French doors leading to the garden to create an indoor-outdoor feel
Before the conversion, the garage was cold, dark, and unwelcoming. The finished space is bright, warm, and has become the heart of family life. As Mrs. Johnson told us: "We can't believe we waited so long to convert our garage. The kids absolutely love their new space, and it's freed up our living room for adult conversation in the evenings. It's transformed how we live in our home."
The Nottingham Builders Garage Conversion Process
Initial Consultation and Design
Our garage conversion process begins with a free, no-obligation consultation at your Nottingham home. This gives us the opportunity to assess your garage, understand your vision, and discuss how the space could work best for your specific needs.
During this initial visit, we'll:
Following this consultation, our design team will create a proposal tailored to your property and personal requirements. We'll present you with detailed plans, including 3D visualisations where appropriate, so you can clearly see how your completed conversion will look and function.
The design phase typically takes 1-2 weeks, during which we'll work closely with you to refine the plans until you're completely satisfied. We encourage our clients to be involved in this process, as your input helps us create a space that perfectly meets your needs.
During this initial visit, we'll:
- Examine the structural condition of your garage
- Take detailed measurements of the space
- Discuss your ideas and requirements in depth
- Address any concerns or questions you might have
- Consider access points and integration with your home
- Assess natural light and ventilation possibilities
Following this consultation, our design team will create a proposal tailored to your property and personal requirements. We'll present you with detailed plans, including 3D visualisations where appropriate, so you can clearly see how your completed conversion will look and function.
The design phase typically takes 1-2 weeks, during which we'll work closely with you to refine the plans until you're completely satisfied. We encourage our clients to be involved in this process, as your input helps us create a space that perfectly meets your needs.
Planning and Permissions in Nottingham
Most garage conversions in Nottingham fall under 'permitted development' rights, meaning they don't require formal planning permission. However, there are exceptions, particularly for properties in conservation areas like The Park, listed buildings, or homes where previous planning conditions exist.
Our team is thoroughly familiar with Nottingham City Council's planning requirements and will:
Even when formal planning permission isn't required, all garage conversions must comply with building regulations covering structural integrity, insulation, ventilation, fire safety, and electrical work. Our extensive experience with Nottingham's building control department means we understand exactly what's required to secure approval.
We'll manage all the administrative aspects of your conversion, allowing you to focus on the exciting parts of the project rather than wrestling with paperwork and regulations. Our established relationships with local planning authorities help ensure a smooth process from start to finish.
Our team is thoroughly familiar with Nottingham City Council's planning requirements and will:
- Advise you on whether planning permission is necessary
- Handle all required applications and paperwork
- Liaise with planning officers on your behalf
- Ensure your conversion meets all relevant building regulations
- Secure the necessary completion certificates
Even when formal planning permission isn't required, all garage conversions must comply with building regulations covering structural integrity, insulation, ventilation, fire safety, and electrical work. Our extensive experience with Nottingham's building control department means we understand exactly what's required to secure approval.
We'll manage all the administrative aspects of your conversion, allowing you to focus on the exciting parts of the project rather than wrestling with paperwork and regulations. Our established relationships with local planning authorities help ensure a smooth process from start to finish.
Construction and Quality Control
Once all permissions are in place and designs finalised, the construction phase begins. We pride ourselves on efficient, clean, and considerate building practices, minimising disruption to your daily life while delivering exceptional results.
Our construction process typically follows these steps:
Throughout construction, our project manager will oversee every aspect of the work, ensuring the highest standards of craftsmanship and adherence to the agreed plans. We use only quality materials sourced from trusted local suppliers, and all tradespeople working on your conversion are fully qualified and experienced in their respective fields.
Quality control is built into every stage of our process, with regular checks and inspections to ensure everything meets our exacting standards. We maintain clear communication throughout, with weekly progress updates and opportunities for you to visit the site and see how things are developing.
Our construction process typically follows these steps:
- Preparation and protection of your property
- Removal of the garage door and creation of a new wall with windows/doors
- Damp-proofing and insulation of walls, floor, and ceiling
- Installation of new electrical systems
- Plumbing work if required (for bathrooms or kitchens)
- Plastering and decoration
- Flooring installation
- Final fixes and finishing touches
Throughout construction, our project manager will oversee every aspect of the work, ensuring the highest standards of craftsmanship and adherence to the agreed plans. We use only quality materials sourced from trusted local suppliers, and all tradespeople working on your conversion are fully qualified and experienced in their respective fields.
Quality control is built into every stage of our process, with regular checks and inspections to ensure everything meets our exacting standards. We maintain clear communication throughout, with weekly progress updates and opportunities for you to visit the site and see how things are developing.
Final Inspections and Handover
As your garage conversion nears completion, we conduct a series of comprehensive checks to ensure everything has been finished to our high standards and complies with all relevant regulations.
Our final inspection process includes:
Once these inspections are complete, we'll arrange for building control to visit and issue the completion certificate, confirming that your conversion meets all necessary regulations.
The handover process includes a detailed walkthrough of your new space, where we'll explain any new systems or features and address any questions you might have. We'll provide you with all relevant documentation, including warranties, guarantees, and certificates.
Our commitment to your satisfaction doesn't end at handover – we provide a comprehensive aftercare service and will promptly address any issues that might arise in the months following completion. Most of our garage conversions come with a 10-year structural warranty, giving you complete peace of mind.
Our final inspection process includes:
- Thorough testing of all electrical installations
- Checks on plumbing and heating systems where applicable
- Inspection of structural elements and finishes
- Verification that the work matches the agreed designs
- Review of energy efficiency and insulation performance
Once these inspections are complete, we'll arrange for building control to visit and issue the completion certificate, confirming that your conversion meets all necessary regulations.
The handover process includes a detailed walkthrough of your new space, where we'll explain any new systems or features and address any questions you might have. We'll provide you with all relevant documentation, including warranties, guarantees, and certificates.
Our commitment to your satisfaction doesn't end at handover – we provide a comprehensive aftercare service and will promptly address any issues that might arise in the months following completion. Most of our garage conversions come with a 10-year structural warranty, giving you complete peace of mind.
Timeline: What to Expect During Your Garage Conversion
A typical garage conversion in Nottingham takes 3-5 weeks from start to finish, though this can vary depending on the complexity of the project and whether any special features are required.
Here's a general timeline you can expect:
Factors that might extend this timeline include:
We'll provide you with a detailed schedule at the beginning of your project, and our project manager will keep you updated if there are any changes to the expected completion date.
Here's a general timeline you can expect:
- Week 1: Preparation, structural work, and creation of new openings
- Week 2: First fix electrical and plumbing, insulation, and damp-proofing
- Week 3: Plastering, floor screeding, and window/door installation
- Week 4: Second fix electrical and plumbing, decoration, and flooring
- Week 5: Final fixes, cleaning, and handover
Factors that might extend this timeline include:
- Installation of bathrooms or kitchens
- Complex structural modifications
- Special design features or bespoke elements
- Weather conditions (for external finishes)
- Material availability
We'll provide you with a detailed schedule at the beginning of your project, and our project manager will keep you updated if there are any changes to the expected completion date.
Technical Aspects of Quality Garage Conversions
Insulation and Energy Efficiency
Proper insulation is crucial for any garage conversion in Nottingham, where our climate can range from chilly winters to (occasionally) warm summers. Most garages have minimal or no insulation, so this is one of the most important aspects of creating a comfortable living space.
Our insulation process typically includes:
We ensure that all insulation meets or exceeds current building regulations, which require a U-value (measure of thermal performance) of 0.28 W/m²K or better for walls and 0.18 W/m²K for roofs. This level of insulation not only creates a comfortable environment but also reduces energy consumption and heating bills.
For Nottingham's climate, we particularly recommend underfloor heating in garage conversions, as it provides even, comfortable warmth without taking up valuable wall space with radiators. Combined with good insulation, this creates an energy-efficient space that's warm in winter and cool in summer.
Our insulation process typically includes:
- Floor insulation to prevent cold rising from the concrete base
- Wall insulation, either in the cavity or with internal thermal lining
- Ceiling/roof insulation to prevent heat loss and summer overheating
- High-performance double or triple glazing for any new windows
- Draught-proofing around all openings
We ensure that all insulation meets or exceeds current building regulations, which require a U-value (measure of thermal performance) of 0.28 W/m²K or better for walls and 0.18 W/m²K for roofs. This level of insulation not only creates a comfortable environment but also reduces energy consumption and heating bills.
For Nottingham's climate, we particularly recommend underfloor heating in garage conversions, as it provides even, comfortable warmth without taking up valuable wall space with radiators. Combined with good insulation, this creates an energy-efficient space that's warm in winter and cool in summer.
Frequently Asked Questions About A Garage Conversion
Does a garage conversion add value to my property?
An integral garage conversion could add up to around 10 or 20% per cent to the worth of your home, while you'll gain valuable extra room and liveable space, these types of building projects are less vulnerable to building planning permission red tape and complications. So if the maximum price of the conversion project is a smaller amount than the additional value that will be added to your property, this works out as a lucrative transaction and a fantastic way to gain more space for you and your family. Also, if you are one of the fortunate people that have the luxury of a double garage on your premises and at your disposal, you could just convert half the space, leaving you with a part storage space or garage parking, and some extra living space.
Do I need planning permission for my garage conversion?
Generally speaking a garage conversion project should come under the permitted developments rights, which will most of the time mean that planning permission isn't required. However, there are some instances and occasions where you may need to apply for planning permission or that you are changing the type of use of the building and may need to apply for a change in use. It is important that you check with your local planning authority before commencing any works.
When it comes to the practicalities of a garage conversion, there are several steps involved to ensure that you are complying with the necessary regulations:
It is important to be aware of all the necessary requirements for a garage conversion and to plan carefully before undertaking any works. Doing so can ensure that you have a successful and safe project that
When it comes to the practicalities of a garage conversion, there are several steps involved to ensure that you are complying with the necessary regulations:
- Making sure that your new space complies with Building Regulations, including fire safety and insulation requirements
- Ensuring that the new space is structurally sound
- Making sure that there is suitable ventilation
- Adding necessary electrical wiring, plumbing or drainage to the space if required.
It is important to be aware of all the necessary requirements for a garage conversion and to plan carefully before undertaking any works. Doing so can ensure that you have a successful and safe project that
Is a garage conversion exempt from building regulations?
You might not need planning permission if you come under the permitted developments but you will always require building regulations approval. This means submitting a building notice to the local authorities beforehand. This is the standard procedure and usually the case for garage conversions. The construction work can still proceed and a building inspector will come around at different phases of the project and approve the work that is being carried out. As we are professional and confident builders and deal with these inspections on a regular basis you have nothing to be concerned about, as we project manage all aspects of each phase of the on-going building work as it progresses through to completion.
Once all the work is completed and to a satisfactory level, then the building inspector will issue a completion certificate.
If your house resides in a conservation area or the building is a listed property, or has some kind of a covenant attached to the building, then it's most likely that you may need planning permission. If you're unsure whether or not your home is situated in a conservation area, please check and discuss this with your local authorities and request details if necessary.
Once all the work is completed and to a satisfactory level, then the building inspector will issue a completion certificate.
If your house resides in a conservation area or the building is a listed property, or has some kind of a covenant attached to the building, then it's most likely that you may need planning permission. If you're unsure whether or not your home is situated in a conservation area, please check and discuss this with your local authorities and request details if necessary.
How much extra space will I get by converting my garage?
A UK standard single integral garage is approximately 150 square foot area of space waiting to be converted into a potential house extension. Double garage owners obviously have double the volume at around 300 square foot to play with, and as I mentioned before, they can utilise by splitting 50/50 and having a part garage conversion and keep half their garage or convert the whole area into a full garage conversion.
- Integral single garage conversion - This will add approximately 150 square feet
- Integral double garage conversion - This will add approximately 300 square feet
- Integral tandem garage conversion - You could convert the front or rear portion
- Standalone garage conversion - Need to check this out first as it most likely would need an application through the correct channels if you are going to change the garage into a habitable dwelling of some kind
Will garage conversion increase council tax
When you convert your garage into a liveable space, you will be pleased to know that it will leave your council tax band unaffected and basically at the same rate, unlike if you were moving from a 3 bedroom property into a 4 bed house in another area. So staying where you are, having a garage conversion can indeed save you lots of money, not to mention the hassle, grief and expense of moving to a new location.
Do I need to tell Insurance about my garage conversion?
If you are planning to project manage the garage conversion by yourself, then I would say that this is definitely a must. Phone them and arrange for the appropriate insurance for your type of conversion. If you fail to inform them about your intentions, and any loss or damage that occurs while the building work is being done, then your standard and current home insurance might not cover certain attributes while your garage conversion is being completed and going through the necessary steps.
It's also worth mentioning that you need to instruct your current insurance company that you are in the process of converting your garage as it could void your main policy also because your original policy is based on the main structure and not any additions or structural changes. Just give them a call and explain the situation letting them know about your intentions and property renovations. A lot of property owners fail to do this and would be upset to learn that their property is not insured. Please don’t let this be you and phone your insurers to make the amendments.
It's also worth mentioning that you need to instruct your current insurance company that you are in the process of converting your garage as it could void your main policy also because your original policy is based on the main structure and not any additions or structural changes. Just give them a call and explain the situation letting them know about your intentions and property renovations. A lot of property owners fail to do this and would be upset to learn that their property is not insured. Please don’t let this be you and phone your insurers to make the amendments.
Do I need to get an architect or structural engineer involved?
If you are a client that knows exactly what you would like your garage conversion to be like, and it comes into the criteria of “permitted development rights” then we are confident and willing to work together with you to construct your conversion under the governments building regulations rules rather than you involve the cost of employing an architect and have specific plans drawn up by them, and this will, of course, save you money and time.
But the alternative to this is, if you want the guidance and assistance with a more complex design that you have in mind for the structure of your garage conversion, then we have an exclusive panel of professional architects and structural engineers on hand that can offer their services to you beforehand.
But the alternative to this is, if you want the guidance and assistance with a more complex design that you have in mind for the structure of your garage conversion, then we have an exclusive panel of professional architects and structural engineers on hand that can offer their services to you beforehand.
Is my type of garage suitable for a conversion project?
Ask yourself these questions
If you are fortunate to have an integral brick or block work garage, then you could most possibly convert the space into a number of uses, just take into consideration a few things first.
What is your existing garage built with? Is it constructed with other, more unusual materials? such as, concrete panels and frame or prefabricated paneling of some sort?
If you are not sure how to go about answering these questions, then please do get in touch for a free consultation and quotation. We can guide and advise you on a way forward to create a fantastic new space in your home. We offer a wide range of services, including, house extensions, loft conversions and new builds to cater for everyone and their budget.
If you are fortunate to have an integral brick or block work garage, then you could most possibly convert the space into a number of uses, just take into consideration a few things first.
- Are there any cracks present?
- Is your garage damp?
- Does your roof leak?
- Is the floor covered in oil and fuel spillage?
- f converted how will you enter this new room
- Would it be possible or do you already have a doorway and access from the main house
- What would your parking be like if you converted your garage?
- Would you have sufficient room to store your garage items?
What is your existing garage built with? Is it constructed with other, more unusual materials? such as, concrete panels and frame or prefabricated paneling of some sort?
If you are not sure how to go about answering these questions, then please do get in touch for a free consultation and quotation. We can guide and advise you on a way forward to create a fantastic new space in your home. We offer a wide range of services, including, house extensions, loft conversions and new builds to cater for everyone and their budget.
Contact us now on 0115-824-3368
For friendly advice and to book your free consultation
For friendly advice and to book your free consultation
Other Things To Consider When Thinking About A Garage Conversion
Listed Buildings, And Areas With Covenants
A good idea before marching ahead with the garage conversion on your Nottingham house, is check if there are any restrictive covenants or planning conditions on your property with regards to converting the garage in any way. Some Property developers, housing estate companies or certain houses may include planning conditions that are attached to your property. As an example, the title deeds may have restrictive covenants, which can in turn cause a prevention for a garage conversion to go ahead. If you're unsure what the details of any written covenants on your property mean, then please take legal advice from a good property solicitor, who will be able to help you with the information you require. If your property does have restrictive covenants, then there is a chance that you'll have to apply for planning permission, depending on the severity of those restrictions. It's important to bear in mind though that as each case may differ, it would be best to contact your local council and ask them for specific advice, before making any decisions. Ultimately, if you do have planning permission for the garage conversion, then it's important to ensure that all of the building regulations are adhered to. This includes having your plans inspected by a qualified engineer and applying for a completion certificate from Building Control at the end of the project. Taking these steps will ensure that your property is safe and compliant with current regulations.
Finally, it is worth noting that if you are planning to convert your garage into a living space, then there may be additional requirements such as insulation and damp proofing. These should all be taken into account when drawing up plans for the conversion and any necessary permits applied for before the project begins. By ensuring that all of these steps are taken, you can be confident that the conversion will meet all current regulations and your property remains safe.
Neighbours
There also are other things to contemplate yet when it involves garage conversions. The conversion can’t interfere together with your neighbour’s privacy or their current views. If you reside in an estate where there's a homeowner’s association involved, you are best to make sure that you're not violating any terms or agreements that have been set out beforehand.. If you're planning on using this new space as a home business, there could also be extra taxes that need to be paid and taken into account.
Finally, it is worth noting that if you are planning to convert your garage into a living space, then there may be additional requirements such as insulation and damp proofing. These should all be taken into account when drawing up plans for the conversion and any necessary permits applied for before the project begins. By ensuring that all of these steps are taken, you can be confident that the conversion will meet all current regulations and your property remains safe.
Neighbours
There also are other things to contemplate yet when it involves garage conversions. The conversion can’t interfere together with your neighbour’s privacy or their current views. If you reside in an estate where there's a homeowner’s association involved, you are best to make sure that you're not violating any terms or agreements that have been set out beforehand.. If you're planning on using this new space as a home business, there could also be extra taxes that need to be paid and taken into account.
Detached Garage Conversion
If you wish to convert a detached garage into some sort of residential accommodation or an office, you must apply for change of use. Again, it's well worth checking with your local planning department in your particular area or a property solicitor, to make sure that any garage conversion you would like to undertake is fully legal. whether or not your garage conversion falls under permitted development, applying for a Lawful Development Certificate (LDC) is usually a great idea – especially if you're looking to sell the house or re-mortgage the property at a later date.
Garage Conversion Foundations
Do I Need To Upgrade My Garage Foundations?
As a part of the garage conversion, it's likely that the initial garage doors are going to be in-filled with a replacement wall and possibly a window or door. because the foundation to the present garage isn't likely to be traditional (it's probably a shallow slab)
If your present garage slab of concrete is a minimum of 200mm or above, it can usually be sufficient to build upon with new brickwork. Tests would be made beforehand to be 100% sure.
A replacement foundation is also needed for the new wall. the present foundation could also be checked by digging alongside it until it's bottom is reached. Foundations are required to transmit the load of the building safely to the bottom. Therefore, all buildings should have adequate foundations that are normally usually concrete in form, but are most likely to vary from one garage to another, it all depends on the circumstances of the particular project.
These foundations are cast as deep-fill (filling most of the trench) or shallow-fill (where the minimum thickness to transfer the load to the soil is provided). There are other styles of foundations which will be used if the bottom conditions don't make trench fill practicable. It's always advisable to contact a structural engineer if you are constructing yourself, but of course, if we are completing the conversion we will take care of the foundations as part of the contract. But please take into account and consideration if DIY construction is your chosen route.
If your present garage slab of concrete is a minimum of 200mm or above, it can usually be sufficient to build upon with new brickwork. Tests would be made beforehand to be 100% sure.
A replacement foundation is also needed for the new wall. the present foundation could also be checked by digging alongside it until it's bottom is reached. Foundations are required to transmit the load of the building safely to the bottom. Therefore, all buildings should have adequate foundations that are normally usually concrete in form, but are most likely to vary from one garage to another, it all depends on the circumstances of the particular project.
These foundations are cast as deep-fill (filling most of the trench) or shallow-fill (where the minimum thickness to transfer the load to the soil is provided). There are other styles of foundations which will be used if the bottom conditions don't make trench fill practicable. It's always advisable to contact a structural engineer if you are constructing yourself, but of course, if we are completing the conversion we will take care of the foundations as part of the contract. But please take into account and consideration if DIY construction is your chosen route.
Garage door options, infill opening and foundations
As this will be an important and visible part of your conversion from an external view and whatever you decide on to infill the opening it'll need some kind of support structure. Some existing garages will have a foundation that runs across the garage opening which you'll use to support your infill project. Unfortunately, the only possible way to inform you that the front of your garage has in fact an existing foundation is to dig a test hole and make sure a foundation exists. If there's no foundation to be found under your garage space door opening there are two options available to you.
1) Excavate a foundation 1metre in depth or to the identical depth of the original foundations of the original garage. This will need to be examined by the building inspector but we will take care of this as the contract proceeds. Once accepted the foundation trench will be backfilled with concrete.
2) If by chance the opening is barely the width of one garage door we will install a couple of 150mm deep concrete lintels that will stretch across the garage door opening supported by the current foundations. We can take care of this or any building Control Surveyor that is appointed to your conversion will be able to produce you with more advice if you are completing the work alone.
With these lintels and concrete foundations now in place, the garage door opening space can be filled into your chosen requirements. There are plenty of options made available to you for how this can be achieved. The garage opening can be closed in with brickwork that matches your house and the window.
Sometimes it can pay to generally reduce the garage door opener because a full large width window can appear right out of proportion with the rest of the property. Damp needs to be kept out and this can be provided by building a cavity wall and a double glazed window unit fitted during the build-out.
Other options available to you can include the installation of a light-weight timber frame panel with a weather-proofed external surface and fitted insulation. This has the advantages of being quick and cost-effective and if you ever sell the house or would like to change back to garage use, it would be easy to do so.
Whatever you decide upon, it's most important that the infill part protects against the weather and is insulated properly and everything works together and blends in with your present building. We can advise and guide you, about your options on your particular property when you book a free consultation and quotation
1) Excavate a foundation 1metre in depth or to the identical depth of the original foundations of the original garage. This will need to be examined by the building inspector but we will take care of this as the contract proceeds. Once accepted the foundation trench will be backfilled with concrete.
2) If by chance the opening is barely the width of one garage door we will install a couple of 150mm deep concrete lintels that will stretch across the garage door opening supported by the current foundations. We can take care of this or any building Control Surveyor that is appointed to your conversion will be able to produce you with more advice if you are completing the work alone.
With these lintels and concrete foundations now in place, the garage door opening space can be filled into your chosen requirements. There are plenty of options made available to you for how this can be achieved. The garage opening can be closed in with brickwork that matches your house and the window.
Sometimes it can pay to generally reduce the garage door opener because a full large width window can appear right out of proportion with the rest of the property. Damp needs to be kept out and this can be provided by building a cavity wall and a double glazed window unit fitted during the build-out.
Other options available to you can include the installation of a light-weight timber frame panel with a weather-proofed external surface and fitted insulation. This has the advantages of being quick and cost-effective and if you ever sell the house or would like to change back to garage use, it would be easy to do so.
Whatever you decide upon, it's most important that the infill part protects against the weather and is insulated properly and everything works together and blends in with your present building. We can advise and guide you, about your options on your particular property when you book a free consultation and quotation
Garage Flooring, damp proofing and floor insulation
Standard existing garage floors will most likely be set lower than the flooring in the main property. They usually are set on a downgraded slope towards the front garage doors. Because of this, they need to be raised during the conversion project to the same level as the house floors. There are a couple of ways you can raise the garage flooring which I have listed below. Whatever you choose and go with it will always be necessary to add a damp proof layer and suitable insulation product.
Concrete Floors
If concrete will be your choice, then a polythene membrane layer will need to be added first, the insulation layer and followed by another polythene membrane. The whole floor will then be levelled with concrete or a sand and cement screed that will be levelled and laid to join the same level as the main house floors
Timber wood flooring
If timber floors is an option that suits your needs better, then treating timber flooring joists can be installed over a polythene damp proof membrane which will be fixed to the present concrete flooring. Next step would be to insulate between the timber joists and then fit tongue and groove chipboard, standard floorboards or marine plywood. Once this main base floor is down you can pick a suitable decorative covering, examples would be carpet, tiles, laminate or just polish the floorboards.
Drainage Considerations
If your garage conversion is to have a new bathroom, shower room, sink or toilet facilities, then it's most important to think about the drainage factor. The previously mentioned items will need to be plumbed in connected at some stage of the building process, and taking these into account early on will pay dividends later on. When we design and plan a conversion we double-check the existing pipes and drains and make sure that everything can be connected to the right services and also that they can handle the pressure of these new facilities
External walls and Wall Linings
Lining the external walls The walls that are currently constructed in your garage aren't normally up to habitable standards, they're sometimes only formed from one single thickness of brickwork and even when constructed and built from cavity masonry they're often not even insulated. When converting your integral or external garage the walls will almost always and must be upgraded.
There are three main major areas of concern when upgrading your garage walls during conversion to make them habitable and inline with the building regulations. These are weather, damp resistance, insulation and sound acoustics. The upgrading scheme that you simply choose is going to be motivated by the actual construction of your existing garage walls. These will be widely divided into a couple of categories.
There are three main major areas of concern when upgrading your garage walls during conversion to make them habitable and inline with the building regulations. These are weather, damp resistance, insulation and sound acoustics. The upgrading scheme that you simply choose is going to be motivated by the actual construction of your existing garage walls. These will be widely divided into a couple of categories.
Cavity walls
If you have an existing garage that is constructed from cavity walling, then weather aversion and damp proof issues are unlikely to be problematic. These walls will probably have a damp proof course present and providing that your wall has no deterioration and looks in good shape, and isn't showing any signs of water ingression or rising damp problems, then the walls will simply only require insulating and a smooth plaster finish ready for your chosen decoration.
There are a couple of options for insulating your walls. They can either be injected with cavity wall insulation or fitted with an insulated lining board that is fixed to the inner surface of the wall before the plaster-boarding or plastering commences. Various types of plasterboards are readily available depending on your project requirements.
There are a couple of options for insulating your walls. They can either be injected with cavity wall insulation or fitted with an insulated lining board that is fixed to the inner surface of the wall before the plaster-boarding or plastering commences. Various types of plasterboards are readily available depending on your project requirements.
Solid brick walls
Most UK garages are generally only one brick approximately 100mm thick and that they often have intermediate piers that buttress the walls which provide them with additional strength. These single brick walls won't provide the best weather resistance for a future habitable room and another wall will have to be provided behind the first wall. This may be done either by building a further skin of masonry to make a wall or the cavity may be insulated as the construction takes place. Then the wall can be plastered and skimmed over or dry lined.
Another option would be an independent timber-framed wall can be built with a cavity area between the new frame and also the existing wall. The frame should be built from a treated source of timber and be insulated between the timber studs. When our frame is in situ the insulated plasterboard finish may be applied ready for decorating. Sometimes garages are constructed with 225mm wide solid brick walls. If they're in sound condition and already have a damp proof course present, then this will be sufficient for weather resistance, but insulating boards will still need to be installed for insulation purposes.
Another option would be an independent timber-framed wall can be built with a cavity area between the new frame and also the existing wall. The frame should be built from a treated source of timber and be insulated between the timber studs. When our frame is in situ the insulated plasterboard finish may be applied ready for decorating. Sometimes garages are constructed with 225mm wide solid brick walls. If they're in sound condition and already have a damp proof course present, then this will be sufficient for weather resistance, but insulating boards will still need to be installed for insulation purposes.
Upgrading Garage Party walls
It could be that some of the walls of your garage are shared with a neighbour. If this is the case it's considered to be a party Wall. Walls that fall into this category will almost always need to be upgraded to cut back the sound transfer between your garage conversion and your neighbour’s property. The Building Control Surveyors are going to be happy to produce you with advice on how you'll be able to upgrade any Party Walls and if we are doing the job there is no need to worry as all this is accounted for within our quoted price
Garage conversion ceiling requirements
Your existing garage probably has an inadequate ceiling that will need to change. You'll have to provide one as a part of your conversion project. Plasterboard is most likely the commonest material used for ceilings because it offers good fire resistance and flame retardant spread properties.
Other materials are used but they're going to need to be treated to boost their fire performance. If the garage is open to a roof you must provide insulation above the ceiling and therefore the roof void will generally have to be ventilated above the insulation to cut down the chance of problems with condensation. With a pitched roof installation, fibreglass insulation will normally be fitted, be ok and suffice but flat roofs, where the spaces are generally confined, building inspectors will insist on high-performance insulation boards.
Other materials are used but they're going to need to be treated to boost their fire performance. If the garage is open to a roof you must provide insulation above the ceiling and therefore the roof void will generally have to be ventilated above the insulation to cut down the chance of problems with condensation. With a pitched roof installation, fibreglass insulation will normally be fitted, be ok and suffice but flat roofs, where the spaces are generally confined, building inspectors will insist on high-performance insulation boards.
Garage conversion ventilation and window requirements
Any new rooms that will eventually become habitable rooms must be ventilated at some point. Generally, this is most often achieved by providing an opening window equal to 1/20th of the ground area of the space with a flow vent at a reasonably high level. Any newly fitted windows must comply and be fitted with high efficient modern double glazed units and it's a good idea that they will contain an opener with a transparent area of a minimum of 0.33m2 and 450mm wide which also should be big enough for your body to pass through, just in case of a fire risk.
This is often essential if the door out of your garage opens into space apart from your lobby. Special emergency exit hinges should be installed to the current window to confirm that it will be fully opened if you ever need it. In bathrooms or shower rooms and extractor fan should be fitted and any rooms without an opening, the window extract fans should be fitted that are triggered by a light switch with timers that overrun and allow the fan to stay on after the light is switched off.
This is often essential if the door out of your garage opens into space apart from your lobby. Special emergency exit hinges should be installed to the current window to confirm that it will be fully opened if you ever need it. In bathrooms or shower rooms and extractor fan should be fitted and any rooms without an opening, the window extract fans should be fitted that are triggered by a light switch with timers that overrun and allow the fan to stay on after the light is switched off.
Garage conversion electrical requirements and upgrades
It will most likely need to complete numerous electrical alterations as a part of your conversion project. It all depends on the condition and the age of your electrical system that is already in your main property, it may need upgrading to take the extra requirements and load from your new electrical fittings. it's sometimes possible to increase existing circuits if you're original electrical system can take it, but new circuits and even a replacement distribution board are going to be required if they cannot.
It's always best to seek professional advice from a competent certified electrician at an early stage of the project. When appointing an electrician please make sure that they're able to issue you with BS7671 test certificates after they have completed their installation, as these are going to be required before your building regulations Completion Certificate is issued as you will incur additional costs if the test certificates haven't been provided. As always if premium conversions are building your garage conversion, this will all be taken care of for you so you don’t have to worry about this factor as everything is included in the price.
It's always best to seek professional advice from a competent certified electrician at an early stage of the project. When appointing an electrician please make sure that they're able to issue you with BS7671 test certificates after they have completed their installation, as these are going to be required before your building regulations Completion Certificate is issued as you will incur additional costs if the test certificates haven't been provided. As always if premium conversions are building your garage conversion, this will all be taken care of for you so you don’t have to worry about this factor as everything is included in the price.
Heating options
To expand the usage of the garage conversion area you may probably want to put in some kind of heating. In most cases, the best and most effective way of doing this can be to span off your present central heating system. It's always best to check with your current heating engineer to confirm that your boiler in the main property can indeed be sufficient to serve any other additional radiators that you have in mind.
Also, any new radiators should be fitted with a thermostatic valve to manage the area's temperature. If it's not viable to increase the present system, or, if you would like to introduce another method of heating to your new area, example, panel type electric heaters, then careful consideration should be a priority on how these may be switched and controlled to make sure that they function efficiently
Also, any new radiators should be fitted with a thermostatic valve to manage the area's temperature. If it's not viable to increase the present system, or, if you would like to introduce another method of heating to your new area, example, panel type electric heaters, then careful consideration should be a priority on how these may be switched and controlled to make sure that they function efficiently
Fire precautions
When you are investing this kind of money into your home it's a very good idea and opportunity to review and upgrade the fire precautions that you currently have set in place, and the future alarm set-up. Smoke detection, mains operated alarm systems can unquestionably offer significant improvements to fire safety within your home. Also building regulations will require alarms to be fitted when integral garages are changed to a habitable environment.
This website Local Authority Building Control has some good sound information regarding the building regulations that affect garage conversions.in England.
Also this is a link for Nottingham City Council Building Regulations F.A.Q
A full plan of application or building notice will need to be issued to your local building control department, They will in turn register your conversion and carry out various inspections throughout the building process. On completion you will be issued with a final certificate of completion for your project.
This website Local Authority Building Control has some good sound information regarding the building regulations that affect garage conversions.in England.
Also this is a link for Nottingham City Council Building Regulations F.A.Q
A full plan of application or building notice will need to be issued to your local building control department, They will in turn register your conversion and carry out various inspections throughout the building process. On completion you will be issued with a final certificate of completion for your project.
Integral garage conversion ideas
If your garage is an integral part of your home, then using this conversion can benefit the rooms in your house that are close by to them. Example of this could be if the garage is next door to your kitchen, then the amalgamation of the two together could create a large open=plan kitchen diner with big french or concertina doors that open onto the rear of your garden. We have done this type of conversion for lots of previous customers in Nottingham and it really works well.
If your lounge is adjacent to your garage then an open-plan lounge diner is something to think about, or just open up the lounge into a larger liveable space, if that is your goal. If on the other hand neither of these are practical or doable, then converting the garage as totally separate room may work better for you, something like a kids playroom, personal gym or home office. Whatever your reason for needing more room, you have to create that balance and harmony within your home environment.
If your lounge is adjacent to your garage then an open-plan lounge diner is something to think about, or just open up the lounge into a larger liveable space, if that is your goal. If on the other hand neither of these are practical or doable, then converting the garage as totally separate room may work better for you, something like a kids playroom, personal gym or home office. Whatever your reason for needing more room, you have to create that balance and harmony within your home environment.
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0115-824-3368
0115-824-3368
Call Now To Book A FREE Garage Conversion Consultation
Don't let your garage space go to waste! Nottingham Builders specialise in garage conversions that transform underutilised spaces into functional, aesthetically pleasing areas tailored to your needs. Whether you envision a home office, a gym, or an extra bedroom, our team of professionals is ready to make your dream a reality. Schedule a free consultation today to begin your garage conversion journey with Nottingham Builders. You can trust us to deliver exceptional results with professionalism and attention to detail. Book now and take your first step towards a beautiful home transformation.
Contact Information
Nottingham Builders 20 Prince Street Long Eaton Nottingham NG10 4LH
Phone: 0115-824-3368 Email: [email protected]
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday: 8am - 6pm Saturday: 9am - 2pm Sunday: Closed
Contact Information
Nottingham Builders 20 Prince Street Long Eaton Nottingham NG10 4LH
Phone: 0115-824-3368 Email: [email protected]
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday: 8am - 6pm Saturday: 9am - 2pm Sunday: Closed
Other Areas in Nottingham Where We Are Active In Building Garage Conversions
Most locations within a 15-mile radius of central Nottingham are within our service area. If you're unsure whether we cover your location, please get in touch – we're always happy to discuss your project requirements.
Garage Conversion Beeston - Garage Conversion Cotgrave - Garage Conversion Carlton - Garage Conversion West Bridgford
Garage Conversion Radcliffe on Trent - Garage Conversion Long Eaton - Garage Conversion Bingham - Garage Conversion Stapleford
Garage Conversion Gedling - Garage Conversion Wollaton - Garage Conversion Mapperley - Garage Conversion - Arnold - Garage Conversion Hucknall
Garage Conversion Radcliffe on Trent - Garage Conversion Long Eaton - Garage Conversion Bingham - Garage Conversion Stapleford
Garage Conversion Gedling - Garage Conversion Wollaton - Garage Conversion Mapperley - Garage Conversion - Arnold - Garage Conversion Hucknall
Nottingham Builders
All Aspects of Building work completed to a high level
Keeping things local
Call Now on 0115-824-3368
All Aspects of Building work completed to a high level
Keeping things local
Call Now on 0115-824-3368