A home's garage gives occupants a safe place to park their cars, but many people park in the driveway or on the street instead. If you use your garage as little more than storage space, consider converting it into a studio apartment. Turning your garage into an apartment is ideal if you have a large family and need an extra bedroom. It also allows you live close to older family members who need care but enjoy their privacy. If you do not need the apartment for yourself or your family, rent it out to earn an income from tenants.
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Things You'll Need
Air Conditioner Or Fan
Plumbing
Furniture
Heater
Appliances
Insulation
Light Sources
Floor Covering
Building Permit
Paint
Step 1
Obtain a building permit from your city's zoning department. Not all cities allow you to turn your garage into an apartment, but if yours does, you need a building permit for the job.
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Step 2
Estimate the budget for the conversion. Depending on the quality of building materials, converting a garage into an apartment usually costs between $25,000 and $40,000, at the time of publication.
Step 3
Insulate the garage's walls, ceiling and floor. Insulation helps regulate the temperature in the garage when it gets hot or cold outside.
Step 4
Install a toilet and shower if you want the apartment to have bathroom facilities. Have a professional plumber connect the toilet and shower to your home's plumbing system. Build walls around the bathroom facilities to separate them from the rest of the apartment.
Step 5
Connect the garage to your existing air and heating system, and install vents that direct heat and air conditioning into the garage. If you want to avoid these costs, use a space heater or fan instead.
Step 6
Contract a professional electrician to install electrical outlets and lighting. Most garages already have an overhead light, but it is usually too dim for use in an apartment.
Step 7
Cover the floor with sealant or a vinyl mat. If your budget permits, install wall-to-wall carpeting to make the apartment more comfortable.
Step 8
Paint the walls and ceiling. If you plan to rent out the apartment, choose a neutral color, such as white or beige.
Step 9
Add appliances, such as a refrigerator and stove. If you want to let the apartment tenant use your appliances, this step is not necessary.
Step 10
Put furniture in the apartment. Include a bed, dining table and chairs. Decorate the apartment with framed pictures or other items to make it feel more like a home.
Tip
Always check with your city before you start any building project. If you do not get permission to build, the city may penalize you with a hefty fine.
Warning
Converting your garage into an apartment may actually lower your home's value in some areas.