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star plumber · Joined: 01 Aug 2006 Posts: 45 Location: london

hi there i am looking to use my detached garage as an office and wondered if i would need to get planning permission to do so on the opposite end(wall) to the metal pull down garage door i want to put a door in and then just section the garage off to make a room it has power already in it , i hope you understand this many thanks

NickAskew · Moderator Joined: 03 Nov 2006 Posts: 112 Location: Thirsk

I looked into this and found I could do it without getting planning permission providing I didn't fit any windows that overlooked anyone elses property.

Other things I thought of that turned me off the idea included:
1) It will be extremely difficult to get an insurance company to insure anything other than typical garage stuff stored in it
2) it probably isn't wired to support anything more than 2 x 13 amp plug sockets
3) It will be cold/damp so electrical equipment won't have a great time in there overnight
4) no heating, so you won't have a great time in there (note the 2x13 amp plug comment, if you are thinking of having an electric heater in there then that will most probably take a whole 13 amp)
5) What condition is the roof in? If felt, have you looked at it recently for wear and tear? If not, is it Asbestos?
6a) If this is going to be a home office, then I am sure your company would want to do a health and safety check to appease their insurance provider - would your garage suffice?
6b) Again, if home office, I am not sure whether you would be able to get any tax breaks if you use your garage rather than a room in your home - check with the Inland Revenue.

Good luck,
Nick

star plumber · Joined: 01 Aug 2006 Posts: 45 Location: london

thanks for the fast reply i have noted your comments ,the garage is the only possible opposition for me , so i will check the roof etc ( anything to get a little peace and quiet and not have the children barge in during important calls asking questions !!) thanks again