Converting a garage into self-contained living accommodation — for an elderly parent, a grown-up child, or simply as extra space for the household — is one of the most common reasons Cornwall homeowners get in touch. Done properly, it adds genuinely usable living space rather than just a converted storage room.
An annexe conversion goes a step further than a home office: it usually needs its own bathroom or shower room, some form of kitchenette, and proper heating and ventilation so it functions as an independent living space. We plan the layout around how the space will actually be used day to day, not just what looks good on a drawing.
Where the garage is detached from the main house, we treat drainage and water supply carefully from the outset, since running new services out to a detached building is usually the part of the job that needs the most thought and planning. Where it's attached, we look at whether internal access makes sense or whether a separate external entrance suits the arrangement better.
We're happy to work alongside family members' own timescales for this type of project, since annexe conversions often come with a specific date in mind — a parent moving in, or a change in family circumstances — and we plan the programme around that.
It depends on the council's planning position on your property and whether the annexe would be classed as ancillary accommodation or a fully separate dwelling. Ancillary annexe use (for a family member, not let out separately) is generally more straightforward. We'll talk through what's realistic for your specific garage and property.
Yes — any garage being converted into habitable living space, particularly one including a bathroom or kitchen, needs full Building Regulations sign-off covering insulation, fire safety, electrics, plumbing and ventilation.
Where the garage's foundations, walls and roof are sound, we build on top of what's there rather than starting again, which keeps costs down. We'll assess the existing structure honestly during the survey rather than assuming everything needs replacing.
Call Harry and the team direct, or drop an email — free, no-obligation estimates across Truro and the surrounding area.
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Garage Conversions Truro