With property prices in Kent continuing to rise, converting an unused garage into living space remains one of the smartest home improvements you can make. But is it always the right choice?
The numbers speak for themselves: a typical single garage conversion costs between £12,000 and £22,000 and can add 10–15% to your property value. That's a significantly better return than most home improvements.
The best candidates for conversion are integral garages (attached to the house) that are already dry and structurally sound. Detached garages can also work but may cost more due to additional insulation, damp-proofing and service connections.
Common mistakes to avoid: skimping on insulation (the floor and walls need proper thermal treatment), ignoring ventilation requirements, and failing to consider the impact on parking. If losing your garage means no off-street parking, it could actually reduce your property value.
When an extension makes more sense: if you need more than 15–18 square metres of space, if your garage is in poor structural condition, or if you need the garage for vehicle storage. In these cases, a purpose-built extension often delivers better long-term value.
Planning permission isn't usually required for a garage conversion, but you will need Building Regulations approval. This covers structural integrity, fire safety, insulation, ventilation and drainage.
At TEMBOK, we assess every garage honestly. If a conversion is the right option, we'll deliver it to a high standard. If an extension would serve you better, we'll tell you — and quote for that instead.