However, it is a good idea if you can obtain from the Local Authority some kind of permit in writing. This is for your peace of mind. You never know if you will be called to stop your garage conversion because your property is located in a conservation area or for some other reason that will cause your permitted development rights to be withdrawn.

Note, however, that Building Regulation compliance is a requirement. While most people might think this is a hassle, it is actually a good thing. A Local Building Control Officer can be helpful because he will be inspecting the garage conversion work regularly to make sure that the work is being done correctly. As a homeowner, you will have peace of mind because you can be assured that the work being done on your garage is independently approved. You'll be issued a certificate by the local authority to serve as proof that your converted garage follows building safety regulations.

Designing Your Converted Garage

You decide how to design the room you want out of your garage. Here's a good tip: while you're in the planning stage, visualize the completed room in your mind. Be as detailed as you can as possible -- from where you want the furniture to be to where you want the light switches, windows, and door to be located.

Make sure you hire a good builder; he can help you in converting your garage or part of it so that it seamlessly blends in with the rest of your home. For example, you can have your bricklayer try to match the brickwork of your converted garage with that of your existing house. He should also be able to cleanly tooth the new brickwork into the existing brickwork. Another example is the internal door and skirting boards. They should match the ones in the existing house. As for heating, it can either be separate (by having underfloor heating installed) or added to the home's existing heating system (by connecting a radiator).

Also, a good builder is going to make sure that your converted garage complies with all the Building Regulations, including ventilation, thermal performance, electrical and fire safety, and structural performance.

The Cost of Converting a Garage

So how much does a garage conversion cost? How much you spend on converting your garage depends on the scope of the work. You'll want to pay just the right amount to get the job done correctly. Make sure you talk to several builders and get a price quote from each one of them. The estimated cost is only one part of the equation, so don't go with a contractor just because he gave you the lowest quote for the job. Consider his background and experience, and if possible, find out what his previous clients think of his work.

Builders Cheltenham are a well established company servicing both private and commercial customers in both Cheltenham and Gloucester and throughout Gloucestershire.