Converting your garage into a living space is a wonderful way to add value and creativity to your home. Whether you are looking for an extra bedroom, a home office, or even a complete in-law suite, understanding the garage conversion cost is important to making the right decision.
Homeowners frequently think, “How much does it cost for a garage conversion?” Ultimately, the answer depends on several factors, from the size of your garage to the materials and the finishes you select.
In this blog, we will check the garage conversion cost, factors that affect the price, and how you can save money while making it the way you want.
What Factors Affect Garage Conversion Cost?
The cost of garage conversion can fluctuate depending on various factors. Let’s see what drives the garage conversion price up or down.
1. Size and Complexity of the Conversion
The more complex the conversion, the higher the garage conversion cost. A simple conversion, like converting a garage into a living room or office, will cost less than a more expensive transformation, such as plumbing, electrical work, and insulation.
2. Type of Conversion
When asking, “How much does it cost to convert a garage?” it’s important to note that garage conversion cost can take various forms:
Essential Living Area: A room used for leisure time; for instance, the cost of a TV room should typically be a less complicated conversion than a more difficult conversion.
Kitchen or bathroom extension: These are upgrades that will involve extensive plumbing and electrical work and will greatly increase the cost of garage conversion UK.
Bedroom Conversion: Adding windows, insulation, and creating a functional living space significantly increases the garage conversion price.
3. Materials and Finishes
The materials you select for your garage conversion can also impact the garage conversion cost. For example, top-quality flooring, luxury kitchen appliances, or custom-built furniture will add to the overall cost of your project.
Basic materials will decrease the garage conversions cost, but if you are looking for a top-end finish, be ready for an increased price.
How Much Does It Cost to Convert a Garage?
The average garage conversion cost, in UK prices, is anywhere from £5,000 to £20,000. The cost includes labour and materials, but there are still many variables that can affect the total price.
1. How Much is a Garage Conversion?
If you’re still asking, “How much does a garage conversion cost?” The total cost will vary based on your location in the UK, as well as the size and complexity of the garage. As a rough guide, for a standard garage conversion, costs are around £10,000 to £15,000 in the UK.
2. Garage Conversion Price Breakdown
To provide some perspective on garage conversion costs, here’s an example breakdown of a typical conversion project:
Basic Conversion: £5,000 – £8,000 (basic insulation, new floor, drywall up and painting.)
Intermediate Conversion: £8,000 – £12,000 (including basic electrical and plumbing work and insulation.)
High-End Conversion: £12,000 – £20,000 (architectural design, bespoke items, high-quality materials, plumbing, full electrics work, and structural work.)
Additional Costs in Garage Conversion UK
When planning a garage conversion, it’s important to consider the potential additional costs. These can include:
1. Planning Permission and Building Regulations
Normally, you won’t require planning permission for a garage conversion UK as long as you comply with permitted development rights. However, you will need to comply with building regulations too, especially if you add in plumbing or electrical systems. Building regulations could cost you an extra £500 to £1,500.
2. Flooring and Insulation
Because garages are not insulated as homes are, you will have to consider adding insulation and flooring. Insulating the walls and floors ensures the space remains comfortable, adding to the cost of converting the garage.
3. Lighting and Electrical Work
If you’re going to upgrade the electrical system in your garage (especially if you’re converting it into a living space or a kitchen), this will add to the garage conversion price. Electrical work generally ranges from £500 to £1,500, depending on how much work is involved.
4. Windows and Doors
Depending on your design, you may be required to replace or add windows and doors for natural light and ventilation. If custom windows are required, the cost of the garage conversion can rise by approximately £1,000 to £3,000.
What Is Included in the Garage Conversion Cost?
When asking how much does it cost to convert a garage, it’s important to know what things are included in the garage conversion cost:
- Labour costs: These costs typically make up 50–60% of the overall cost.
- Materials: This section includes insulation, flooring, drywall, and any other materials you will need for the construction.
- Plumbing and Electrical: If you choose to install a bathroom or kitchen, expect to be charged for plumbing and electrical; again, this can significantly add to the overall costs.
- Windows, Doors, and Finishes: As mentioned, custom windows or doors and high-end finishes can also add to the overall costs.
Cost of Garage Conversion UK: Additional Considerations
The cost of garage conversion UK can be influenced by factors like the location of your house, the property type, and whether the garage is attached or separated. Urban areas have higher labour costs and material prices, making the garage conversion a little more expensive.
Additionally, if your garage is large or needs some structural changes, expect the garage conversion cost to be at the higher end of the scale.
Conclusion
In summary, the garage conversion cost can be as cheap as £5,000 for a box-standard conversion to upwards of £20,000 for a high-end, fully functional living space. The garage conversion in the UK has many factors that will influence the final price, including, but not limited to, garage size, materials, and level of complexity.
Overall, if you want to convert a garage into livable space, which will increase your property value and create more functional space, it’s usually worth the investment.
Whether you want a tiny room or a full-on kitchen and bathroom addition, knowing the garage conversion cost will help you plan and budget. If you want someone to turn your garage into a lively space, check out the blog on how a garage conversion specialist redesigns your space.