Garages: wasted space or property perk?

What do you do when the car’s not the star? That’s the question after new research by Aviva revealed more than 1 in 4 UK garage owners don’t use the space to park their car. From not being able to open the doors and a car that’s just too big for the space, to finding it difficult to park inside and a fear of damaging the vehicle, it appears garages are not serving their intended purpose.

Full to the brim…but not with cars

The analysis went on to confirm that 66% of those with a garage used the space predominantly for storage. A previous survey of garage owners by the RAC found exactly the type of items garages were stuffed with: gardening tools, DIY equipment, pushbikes, scooters, shoes, camping equipment and garden furniture. Additionally, some homeowners had commandeered the space for a gym, while others had turned their garage into a workshop.

While makeshift uses are commonplace, a garage is rarely usable as somewhere to relax, work or even sleep. Making the leap and converting your garage into a proper room, however, could add as much as 10-20% to your home’s value, according to figures from Checkatrade.

A variety of uses

A garage that’s fully incorporated into your home can have a variety of uses. Popular choices include a playroom, a snug or a home office. If you only have a single garage, it is possible to divide the space into two, retaining storage and perhaps creating a utility room.

Those with a double garage have more options. The most ambitious could be to create a ground floor bedroom with en-suite bathroom – ideal if you are looking to gain fully accessible accommodation, or if you’d like to take part in the Government’s Rent a Room scheme but want to offer something self-contained.

Before you commit to converting a garage, you should speak to an architect or builder about the possibilities, constraints and costs. These can include:

• Value: removing a secure parking space can devalue a property if it’s in a permit only or controlled parking zone, so think carefully before you embark on a conversion project

• Permission: although most garage conversions fall under permitted development, some projects may need planning permission, especially if they’re in a Conservation Area, a National Park or a National Landscape. If the garage adjoins a neighbouring property, you may also need a party wall agreement

• Change of use: converting a garage will almost always need a building regulations application and sign off, as it represents a change of use

• Light: most garages have no windows but this will need amending if the space is to become comfortably liveable

• Power: even garages that already have a power supply may need attention - there are probably not enough plug sockets or light fittings in the right places

• Water: if your plan is to create a utility room that can support a washing machine and sink, or a bedroom with some form of en suite, you’ll need to address the water supply and drainage

• Flooring: most garage floors are lower than the rest of the home, so they will need raising up to match them with the same level as the internal accommodation

• Heat: the chief concern will be insulation – or the lack of – as well as adding a heat source, such as radiators running off the central heating system or electric underfloor heating 

• Access: truly usable living space will need free access from the main property, so an internal door may be necessary

Knowing your garage conversion options opens up a whole new world of properties for buyers. If you would like guidance on purchasing a home with a garage – or if you have a garage you’re thinking of converting before selling - please contact us.