Build a new garage for less

Taking on a self-build or renovation project? Then factor in a garage from the beginning you can benefit from economies of scale and efficiency tactics, says Tim Phillips

- TIM PHILLIPS

Self-builders frequently include a garage in their build plans from the outset - and it makes sense to do so. Incorporating the garage into the original estimate will assist in the budgeting process. Efficiency and cost savings can be achieved by designing and building the garage concurrently with the main house: trades will be on site and materials can be delivered at the same time, which both contribute to economies of scale. This will guarantee that the construction process runs well and that the garage is built in accordance with the overall design and specification of your home too, which means they'll work in harmony together.

If your budget allows construction of your garage in tandem with the rest of your project then this will enable landscaping to be the final process. Land surrounding a self-build will need making good so it makes sense to build a garage as part of the overall build process, rather than having to repair driveways and lawns at a later date.

If you're renovating a home then adding a standalone or attached garage to the existing property can be done when circumstances, especially budget, allow. If you're extending, then it makes sense to follow the same principles as when self-building get it built at the same time.

WILL I NEED PLANNING PERMISSION?

What you can build will come down to whether the design you're after will fall under the criteria for Permitted Development (PD) rights, which avoids a project going down the formal planning route, or if where you live, or what you want to build, actually requires you go down the planning permission route. It's best to visit the planning portal for guidance, as well as getting in touch with your local planning office.

WILL ADDING A GARAGE INCREASE THE VALUE OF MY PROPERTY?