What is a garage conversion?

A garage conversion turns an integral or attached garage into habitable space, such as a study, playroom, bedroom or utility. The garage door is replaced with a wall and window, the floor is raised and insulated, and the walls and roof are brought up to building regulations.
How much does a garage conversion cost in Eltham?
In Eltham, a garage conversion typically costs £23,500–£39,000 for a single integral garage, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Prices across London are typically 30% above the UK average for this kind of work, which is reflected in the range for Eltham. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| A single integral garage | £23,500–£39,000 |
| Higher specification | £39,000–£49,000 |
Your quote will depend mainly on:
- Single or double garage
- Integral, attached or detached
- Foundations under the old door opening
- Bathroom or kitchen
For a figure based on your own measurements, try the guide price tool, then book a free home visit for a fixed quote.
Do you need planning permission for a garage conversion in Eltham?
The approval route for Eltham is set by planning law in England. In England converting an integral or attached garage usually does not need planning permission, unless a condition on the house removed permitted development rights (common on estates built in recent decades) or the house is listed. Building regulations approval is always needed.
Building regulations approval comes from the council’s building control service or a registered building control approver. The work is inspected at key stages, such as foundations, drainage and insulation, and a completion certificate is issued at the end.
If the answer is not clear-cut, we can apply for formal confirmation before you commit to the build.
What we handle
Handled as part of most garage conversions:
- Floor raised with insulation and damp-proof membrane
- Planning check for removed permitted development rights
- Wall and ceiling insulation
- Building control completion
- Foundation check under the garage door opening
- New wall and window to replace the garage door
How long does it take?
The build itself usually takes 3 to 6 weeks on site. Design and approvals come first and typically take 6 to 12 weeks, depending on the approval route.
Building in Eltham
Victorian and Edwardian terraces dominate many London streets, which is why side return, wraparound and mansard projects are so common here.
Our Eltham coverage includes postcode districts SE9, and we also work in nearby places such as Blackheath, Welling and Sidcup.
How it works
- 01
Free visit
We look at the property, talk through what you want and measure up. There is no charge and no obligation.
- 02
Design and pricing
Design options, then a fixed quote based on the chosen drawings and specification.
- 03
Approvals
Planning or permitted development confirmation, building regulations and any party wall matters.
- 04
Build and sign-off
We run the build to a written programme and hand over the completion certificate.
Questions about garage conversions in Eltham
Do I need building regulations approval?
Yes. Converting a garage to a habitable room needs building control approval for insulation, ventilation, fire safety and the new wall.
How long does it take?
Typically 3 to 6 weeks on site.
Who approves a garage conversion in Eltham?
Planning matters in Eltham go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. We prepare and submit the applications for you.
How much does a garage conversion cost in Eltham?
In Eltham, a garage conversion typically costs £23,500–£39,000 for a single integral garage, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Can a detached garage be converted?
Yes, but using it as separate living accommodation may need planning permission.
