Converting a garage is one of the simplest ways to add a room, and in most cases it does not need a planning application. There are some important exceptions though, and the building regulations side applies to almost every conversion. This guide explains both.
When a garage conversion does not need planning permission
Planning Portal guidance is that planning permission is not usually required, providing the work is internal and does not involve enlarging the building. Replacing the garage door with a new wall and window is an external alteration, which the government's permitted development guidance treats under the same householder rules as new windows and doors, with the condition that the materials look similar to the rest of the house.
When you will need planning permission
- Permitted development rights have been removed. Planning Portal guidance says some properties have had these rights removed for garage conversions, particularly on new housing developments and in conservation areas. The government guidance explains that rights can be removed by a condition on the original planning permission for the house, or by an Article 4 Direction across an area.
- The building is being enlarged. If the conversion is part of an extension, the extension has to meet its own rules or have planning permission.
- The house is listed. Work to a listed building may need listed building consent.
- The garage becomes a separate home. Converting a garage into a separate dwelling may need planning permission whatever work is involved.
How to check before you start
Check the planning history of your house with the council for any condition about garages or permitted development. If you are on a newer estate this is the most important check of all. If you are unsure, contact your council. You can also apply for a lawful development certificate, which is the council's formal confirmation that the proposed work is lawful.
| Area | Council |
|---|---|
| Shirley, Solihull, Olton, Dorridge, Knowle | Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council |
| Hall Green, Moseley, Bournville, Edgbaston, Harborne, Sutton Coldfield, Four Oaks | Birmingham City Council |
| Earlswood, Tanworth-in-Arden, Henley-in-Arden, Stratford-upon-Avon | Stratford-on-Avon District Council |
| Warwick, Leamington Spa, Kenilworth | Warwick District Council |
| Barnt Green, Lickey End, Bromsgrove | Bromsgrove District Council |
| Redditch | Redditch Borough Council |
| Coventry | Coventry City Council |
| Worcester | Worcester City Council |
| Little Aston | Lichfield District Council |
Building regulations for a garage conversion
Planning Portal guidance is that converting a garage, or part of one, into habitable space will normally need building regulations approval. The work it checks typically includes:
- The in-fill wall. The old garage door opening is usually filled with a new wall and a window or door. Garage floors are often a shallow slab, so a new foundation may be needed under the new wall.
- The floor. The existing floor may need upgrading with a damp proof membrane and insulation, and often raising to match the floor level of the house.
- Ventilation. Each new room needs adequate ventilation, normally an opening window for purge ventilation plus background trickle ventilation.
- Walls, roof and windows. Insulation, doors, windows, electrics and any drainage also have to meet the regulations.
Our building regulations guide explains how approval and inspections work.
Planning a garage conversion
For ideas on how to use the space, see our garage conversion ideas, and for budgets see our garage conversion cost guide. If you are thinking about converting a garage in Solihull, Birmingham or the surrounding areas, we can check the planning position with you and give you a free, no obligation quote.
About HK Builders
HK Builders Ltd is a building company based in Shirley, Solihull, and a member of the Federation of Master Builders with over 20 years' experience. We build extensions, loft and garage conversions, renovations and new homes across Solihull, Birmingham and the West Midlands. Get in touch for a free, no obligation quote.
Call 07393 194 336Get a free quote
