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 the Lothians?
In the Lothians, a garage conversion typically costs £17,500–£29,000 for a single integral garage, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Prices in Scotland sit near the national average for this kind of work, and the range for the Lothians reflects that. 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 |
The main things that change the cost:
- Whether planning permission is needed
- Foundations under the old door opening
- Heating and flooring
- Integral, attached or detached
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 the Lothians?
Approvals for a garage conversion in the Lothians follow the rules for 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.
In Scotland a building warrant is needed before work starts on most extensions, loft conversions and conversions. It is issued by the council’s building standards service. When the work is finished, a completion certificate is submitted and accepted by the council after inspection.
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:
- Floor raised with insulation and damp-proof membrane
- Planning check for removed permitted development rights
- Drawings and building control application
- Electrics, heating and plastering
- Wall and ceiling insulation
- Foundation check under the garage door opening
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 the Lothians
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.
Towns we cover in the Lothians include Livingston, Musselburgh, Bathgate, Bonnyrigg, Penicuik and Broxburn.
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
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 the Lothians
Will losing the garage affect parking?
Councils sometimes object if on-street parking is under pressure. We check local parking standards.
Can a detached garage be converted?
Yes, but using it as separate living accommodation may need planning permission.
Do I need planning permission for a garage conversion in the Lothians?
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.
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 much does a garage conversion cost in the Lothians?
In the Lothians, 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.
Who approves a garage conversion in the Lothians?
Planning matters in the Lothians go to the council covering your address, and the work needs a building warrant. We prepare and submit the applications for you.