Carports are a really common feature of homes on the Gold Coast. More often than not, they’re the result of homeowners renovating to gain an extra room or bedroom without the need for major structural changes to their home. Converting a garage into living space and adding a carport is an efficient and cost-effective way to maximise a property’s potential and value.
If you’re considering buying a renovator and planning this kind of upgrade, you’ll need to do some groundwork before committing to a purchase. Here are three key things we recommend that you look for before you buy to ensure the garage conversion and carport addition runs smoothly.
1. Ensure Space for a Decent Size Carport
When planning to add a carport, space is key. A standard carport that comfortably fits two vehicles needs to be 6m x 6m. During inspections:
- Check the site map/ floorplan or measure the available area on the property to confirm you have enough room for the carport.
- Check the property layout for any obstacles, such as gardens, trees, or retaining walls that may need to be removed or relocated.
- Ensure the space is easily accessible for vehicles and doesn’t compromise existing driveways or pathways.
2. Locate Essential Services such as Electricity and Plumbing
Building a carport may seem straightforward, but it’s crucial to know where essential services like electricity lines, plumbing pipes, and stormwater drainage systems are located. Before buying, do your due diligence and check:
- Utility Maps: Request utility layouts or consult a professional to map out underground services.
- Impacts on Construction: Ensure the carport’s placement won’t interfere with existing utilities, as relocating them can be costly.
- Access Points: If the garage conversion requires new plumbing (e.g., for an ensuite bathroom in the new bedroom), confirm that connecting to the existing system is feasible.
3. Get Building Approval from the Council
Carport additions require council approval. On the Gold Coast:
- Plan for Compliance: Your carport must comply with local regulations, including being open on all sides (not enclosed).
- Zoning and Setbacks: Confirm the carport meets zoning requirements and is appropriately distanced from property boundaries.
- Approval Process: Factor in time for the council approval process. A professional builder or building designer can help with plans and applications to ensure everything aligns with regulations.
Bonus Tips for Garage Conversions
While the carport is critical, don’t overlook the details of your garage conversion:
- Insulation and Ventilation: Ensure the new bedroom is properly insulated (or can be) and has adequate ventilation for comfort.
- Natural Light: Incorporate windows or skylights to ensure the space can receive natural sunlight, particularly if it’s a living space or bedroom.
- Accessibility: Check that the new layout flows naturally with the rest of the house. If the access to the new room will only be through a laundry, for example, you might want to rethink your plans. Creating unusual floorplans will make the property harder to sell.
- Check the floor level of the existing garage. If it’s lower than the existing floor you will need to raise the floor level for the new addition to be seamless. This adds cost to the conversion so you will need to factor that in.
Final Thoughts
Adding a carport and converting a garage is a practical way to enhance your Gold Coast renovator without extensive renovations. By ensuring you have enough space, checking the location of essential services, and securing the necessary approvals, you’ll set your project up for success and avoid unexpected costs or delays.
If you’re searching for the perfect renovator on the Gold Coast or need advice on what to look for when searching for a renovator’s delight, reach out to us. We’d love to help you find a property that’s ready for your vision!
