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 Selkirk?
In Selkirk, a garage conversion typically costs £17,500–£29,000 for a single integral garage, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Building costs in Scotland are close to the UK average, so the figures for Selkirk are close to our national guide. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| A single integral garage | £17,500–£29,000 |
| Higher specification | £29,000–£36,000 |
What moves the price most:
- Foundations under the old door opening
- Whether planning permission is needed
- Heating and flooring
- Single or double garage
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 Selkirk?
Whether you need planning permission depends on your house and its location in Scotland. In Scotland converting a garage usually does not need planning permission if the outside appearance barely changes, but a building warrant is needed before work starts.
Scotland has no Party Wall Act. Work on shared walls is governed by your title deeds, the Tenements (Scotland) Act 2004 for flats, and common law, so we agree arrangements with neighbours in writing before work starts.
At the survey we check your house’s planning history and any restrictions, and tell you which route applies.
What we handle
Handled as part of most garage conversions:
- Drawings and building control application
- Wall and ceiling insulation
- Electrics, heating and plastering
- Planning check for removed permitted development rights
- Floor raised with insulation and damp-proof membrane
- New wall and window to replace the garage door
How long does it take?
Build time is typically 3 to 6 weeks on site. Allow time beforehand for drawings and approvals, usually 6 to 12 weeks.
Building in Selkirk
Scotland’s housing ranges from sandstone tenements and villas to post-war and modern estates, and the building warrant system shapes how projects are planned.
Selkirk sits in the Scottish Borders, about 5 miles south of Galashiels. We cover the whole of Selkirk, including postcodes TD7.
How it works
- 01
Visit and measured survey
A free visit to understand the project, check access and take measurements.
- 02
Design and fixed quote
Drawings, structural calculations and an itemised, fixed price for the agreed specification.
- 03
Permissions sorted
Applications, building control and neighbour arrangements, all before the start date.
- 04
Construction and completion
We build, put right any snags and hand over the building control certificate.
Questions about garage conversions in Selkirk
Who approves a garage conversion in Selkirk?
Planning matters in Selkirk go to the council covering your address, and the work needs a building warrant. We prepare and submit the applications for you.
Can a detached garage be converted?
Yes, but using it as separate living accommodation may need planning permission.
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.
How much does a garage conversion cost in Selkirk?
In Selkirk, a garage conversion typically costs £17,500–£29,000 for a single integral garage, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Do I need planning permission for a garage conversion in Selkirk?
In Scotland converting a garage usually does not need planning permission if the outside appearance barely changes, but a building warrant is needed before work starts.
