Table of Contents
- Key Takeaways
- Introduction
- Garage Assessment Guide
- Planning Requirements
- Essential Drawings
- Cost Analysis
- Common Pitfalls
- FAQs
Key Takeaways
- Most garage conversions fall under Permitted Development Rights
- Professional drawings are crucial for Building Control approval
- Average conversion adds 15% more living space
- Accurate measurements prevent costly mistakes
- Proper planning ensures optimal space utilization
Introduction
Converting your garage can add valuable living space without the complexity of a full extension. According to Zoopla’s Property News, a well-executed garage conversion can increase property value by up to 15% while costing significantly less than a traditional extension.
Garage Assessment Guide
Space Evaluation
- Standard single garage: 2.5m × 5m
- Double garage: 5m × 5m
- Minimum ceiling height: 2.2m
- Door opening width: 2.1m minimum
Conversion Potential Analysis
Room Type Suitability
- Home office: 12-15m²
- Bedroom: 14-20m²
- Living room: 15-22m²
- Utility room: 6-10m²
Access Considerations
- Direct garden access
- Connection to the main house
- Independent entry options
Planning Requirements
Permitted Development Rights
Most garage conversions fall under PDR if:
- The property isn’t listed
- The conversion stays within the original volume
- External alterations are minimal
Building Regulations
Key areas covered:
- Ventilation
- Insulation
- Fire safety
- Damp protection
Essential Drawings
Professional Drawing Package
At Plan Craft Daily, we specialize in:
Measured Survey
- Precise garage dimensions
- Existing door and window positions
- Current layout measurements
- External measurements and boundaries
Existing Drawings
- Accurate floor plans showing the current layout
- Present elevation drawings
- Site plan with garage position
- All dimensions clearly marked
Proposed Drawings
- New layout plans
- Modified elevation views
- Clear dimensioning
- Detailed annotations
For additional services such as space planning, interior design, or planning support, we recommend consulting with appropriate specialists.
Drawing Specifications
All drawings include:
- Scale indicators
- Dimension notations
- Material specifications
- Clear annotations
Cost Analysis
Drawing Package Investment
- Measured survey costs
- Drawing preparation
- Planning support
Value Addition
- Added living space: 15-20m²
- Property value increase: 10-15%
- Cost vs. traditional extension: 40-50% less
Common Pitfalls
Design Mistakes
Inadequate Natural Light
- Poor window positioning
- Insufficient openings
- Dark corners
Space Planning Errors
- Impractical layouts
- Poor circulation
- Insufficient storage
Drawing Issues
- Missing dimensions
- Incomplete details
- Incorrect scales
FAQs
Q: How long does the drawing process take?
A: Typically 1-2 weeks from initial survey to final drawings.
Q: Do I need planning permission?
A: Most garage conversions fall under Permitted Development Rights, but professional drawings are still required for Building Control approval.
Q: What drawings do I need?
A: You’ll need existing and proposed floor plans, elevations, and detailed sections showing insulation and construction details.
Transform Your Garage
Ready to convert your garage into valuable living space? Contact Plan Craft Daily for professional measured surveys and planning drawings that ensure your conversion project’s success.
📅 Last updated: February 2025
Sources:
- Zoopla Property News
- Local Authority Building Control
- UK Planning Portal
May i ask the stndar dimension of a single garage as mine is presently 2.1 wide and i was informed that i need to extend the door to be inconformity
Thank you for your comment on our blog and for reaching out with your questions.
While there are no fixed legal standards for garage dimensions across the UK, there are some widely accepted general guidelines for a single-car garage:
Width: 3.0 metres (minimum)
Length: 6.0 metres (minimum)
Internal Height: 2.1–2.4 metres (varies depending on design)
Door Width (clear opening): 2.1–2.4 metres
Since your current garage width is 2.1 metres, it may fall below the generally accepted minimum, especially in terms of clear access. However, being asked to extend the door could be due to local design guidelines or specific planning or building control requirements applicable in your area.
To better assist you, could you please let us know:
Who requested the inconformity — was it your local planning department or building control?
Which local authority your property falls under?
There may be local design criteria influencing this requirement, and we’d be happy to look into it further once we have this information.