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 Ely?
In Ely, a garage conversion typically costs £19,000–£32,000 for a single integral garage, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). The guide for Ely reflects typical costs in the East of England, roughly 6% above the UK-wide figure. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| A single integral garage | £19,000–£32,000 |
| Higher specification | £32,000–£40,000 |
The main things that change the cost:
- Foundations under the old door opening
- Bathroom or kitchen
- Heating and flooring
- Whether planning permission is needed
Use the guide price tool to see how size and specification change the figure, then ask for a written, itemised quote.
Do you need planning permission for a garage conversion in Ely?
The approval route for Ely 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.
Our first visit includes a check of your planning history, so you know the route before paying for drawings.
What we handle
From survey to sign-off, the job normally involves:
- Electrics, heating and plastering
- Planning check for removed permitted development rights
- New wall and window to replace the garage door
- Foundation check under the garage door opening
- Drawings and building control application
- Floor raised with insulation and damp-proof membrane
How long does it take?
Expect 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 Ely
Many towns in the East of England have estates built since the 1970s, where garage conversions and rear extensions are popular.
If your home is in Ely or close by in Newmarket, March and Cambridge, a free home visit is the first step.
How it works
- 01
Visit and measured survey
A free visit to understand the project, check access and take measurements.
- 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
Construction and completion
We build, put right any snags and hand over the building control certificate.
Questions about garage conversions in Ely
Can a detached garage be converted?
Yes, but using it as separate living accommodation may need planning permission.
Who approves a garage conversion in Ely?
Planning matters in Ely 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 Ely?
In Ely, a garage conversion typically costs £19,000–£32,000 for a single integral garage, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
How long does it take?
Typically 3 to 6 weeks on site.
Will losing the garage affect parking?
Councils sometimes object if on-street parking is under pressure. We check local parking standards.