Are you thinking of converting your garage?
Whether you want to achieve extra room in your home or office, one of the most effective ways to achieve this is by way of conversion. There are many types of conversions which include loft conversions, granny flats and garage conversions amongst others. Garage conversions share some similarities with loft conversion but both have very different features. Therefore before embarking on any type of conversion, it is important to be aware of the features and what to expect from the conversion.
Below are some factors you need to consider before starting on a garage conversion:
Safety
One key difference between lofts and garages is that garages are generally not used as living spaces and, as such, may not have been built with safety in mind. This means that there may be some structural changes that need to be made before it can be safely used as a living space. For instance, if your garage doesn’t have proper ventilation, you will need to install an extractor fan to remove any fumes or carbon monoxide gas from the space. You will also need to fit smoke detectors and alarms throughout the space.
Permits
In most cases, you will need to obtain a permit from your local authority before starting on a garage conversion. This is because the space may not have been designed for habitation and, as such, the authorities will want to ensure that it meets all safety standards before allowing you to use it as a living space
Planning
As with any home improvement project, it is important to plan ahead before starting on your garage conversion. This means drawing up plans which meet all the regulations of your local authority and ensuring that everything is in order before starting construction
Building Regulations
Garage conversions are classed as building work and, as such, must meet building regulations. This includes having proper fire resistant walls and ventilation. In most cases, you will need a building regs certificate from your local authority before any work can begin on your garage conversion project.
Benefits of Hiring a Professional Contractor
One of the biggest benefits of hiring a professional contractor for any home improvement project is that they will be able to draw up plans which meet all the required standards.
The main reason why many people avoid hiring professionals for this type of work is because it can be expensive. However, if you are looking at converting your garage into an extra room in your property then having a professional company install it can save you money in the long run.