Do I need a
structural engineer
for a garage conversion?
Planning to convert your garage? Learn when a structural engineer is required and how to ensure your project is safe and compliant.
A structural engineer may be required for a garage conversion, as they have extensive knowledge of the various safety factors, local regulations, and necessary modifications to turn your garage into a vibrant area of your home.
The engineers will perform all necessary calculations and find the right tools for the job. Without one, you could potentially run the risk of costly remediations down the line.
What can a garage conversion be used for?
Converting a garage into living space
Many garages are disused spaces that serve as extra storage. Converting a garage into living space creates a new area for people to gather and enjoy. It also increases your home property value.
Garage to office conversion
Two out of five people in the UK work remotely, with over 10% of them exclusively working from home.
Naturally, home offices have become an increasingly appealing option for many people looking to enhance their home.
Transforming a garage into an office creates a designated workspace with fewer distractions.
Also, it separates your working area from the rest of your home, making a clearer distinction between your professional and personal life.
Turn your garage into a home gym
It can be frustrating in conventional gyms waiting for the machine you need to be free.
Creating your own gym at home is a great way to eliminate interruptions to your routine and save on travel time, while creating a convenient workout area tailored for your needs.
Services Used
How can a structural engineer help?
To convert a garage into a habitable space, structural changes are required.
Removing garage doors and replacing them with classic front doors or windows is not always straightforward, as the garage foundations may not support the weight of new structures.
Structural engineers will assess the garage’s foundations, walls, and floors to determine if they can withstand weight changes.
If modifications are needed, they’ll identify how to add extra support and perform all the necessary calculations.
Garage floors are almost always lower than the floors in your home.
To address this, structural engineers will raise the floor, add insulation, and install flooring.
Garage conversion building regulations
A structural engineer will make sure your garage conversion is safe and fit for purpose, no matter how you decide to transform your garage.
They do this by ensuring your garage conversion adheres to building regulations. All developments must comply with building regulations, even if planning permission isn’t required.
Once work is completed, you’ll receive a building regulation completion certificate. This is essential when you want to sell your home. Without certification, buyers will be deterred, and banks often won’t give mortgages to uncertified homes.
Furthermore, if a development isn’t safe and built in line with building regulations, you may be fined and your conversion could even be demolished.
Do I need planning permission for a garage conversion?
You usually don’t need planning permission for a garage conversion, provided the work being done is internal and the garage is staying the same size. However, there are some scenarios that would require you to seek planning permission:
- If your home is a listed building.
- Building a second storey.
- If you live in a conservation area.
- Extending the garage size.
- If you are raising the roof.
Similarly to building regulations, if you do not have planning permission for your garage conversion, your local authority can tell you to revert your conversion.
You will also struggle to sell your home as new buyers will not want to risk being penalised for unauthorised work.
The Home Engineers can help you transform your home
Any conversions and extensions to your home require the intel and experience of a qualified structural engineer. A professionally executed garage conversion creates a safe and enjoyable space to be enjoyed for years to come.
We are motivated and skilled engineers, dedicated to bringing your project to life. We pride ourselves on providing open dialogue with new and existing clients alike, to help you realise your home improvement ideas.
Get in touch with our team below!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a garage conversion take?
The time taken for a garage conversion depends on the scope of your project.
A simple conversion with simple structural alterations typically takes around four weeks. Larger projects, which may involve extending the garage or adding a second storey, will likely take longer.
Will a garage conversion increase my house value?
Yes, a garage conversion will increase your property value. On average, a bedroom conversion increases value by 20% and an office conversion by 10%.
Can I add a second-storey to my garage conversion?
Yes, you can add a second storey to your garage conversion. Our engineers can advise you on the structural changes and reinforcements needed to support the additional weight.
Do I need planning permission for a detached garage conversion?
You are more likely to need planning permission for a detached garage conversion. Your local authority can provide specific information for your area.