Converting your garage into a living space: the Guide

Are you short of space and want to extend your home without too much expense? Converting your garage into an office, bedroom or independent studio is a popular idea for gaining extra square metres without having to undertake major renovation work. Here's how:

What does it mean to convert a garage into a living space?

The aim is to transform your garage into a functional living space. This involves several renovation operations to make the site fit for normal use.

But unlike a simple renovation, This project requires a comprehensive approach, including insulation, the installation of heating and ventilation systems, and the creation of openings to let in natural light. The aim is to create a comfortable, healthy space, which also complies with the same high standards as in the Grand Duchy (see the definition of living space in Luxembourg).

What are the advantages of converting your garage into a living space?

It's often the same reasons that drive Luxembourgers to embark on this type of renovation:

1. To optimise existing space: Square metres of living space are worth their weight in gold in Luxembourg! With this development, you can use an area that has already been built on without encroaching on your garden or land. It's an intelligent use of your land.
2. Because the cost of such an operation is very low: This solution generally costs 30 to 50% less than a traditional extension.
3. Because you add value to your property: If you manage this type of renovation well, you can generate a margin of between €4,000 and €5,000 on each square metre converted into living space. It's a smart move if you want to sell or let your property in the near future!
4. Because this type of work is generally quick to carry out: Allow 2 to 3 weeks for your garage to be completely transformed into a habitable room.

Do you need permission to convert your garage into a living room?

In Luxembourg, transforming a garage into a living space is not just a DIY project A change in the use of a building requires specific authorisation from the municipal authorities.

In other words, a surface area that was previously used for vehicle parking is now counted as living space - and is therefore included in the register of taxable surface areas.

In Luxembourg, if you fail to make this declaration, you risk financial penalties and the obligation to restore the premises to their original state.

In general, you do not need planning permission for this type of work. A prior declaration is generally sufficient when :

• The surface area of the converted garage is below a certain threshold
• Exterior modifications remain limited (replacement of the garage door with a window)
• The project does not alter the load-bearing structure of the building
• The use remains ancillary to the main dwelling

Above certain thresholds, or when the work changes the appearance or structure of the building, you will generally need to apply for planning permission (particularly if you are making openings for windows, for example). Find out more about planning permission in Luxembourg.

Good to know: Thresholds and criteria may vary between PAGs and local authorities. We strongly recommend that you consult the town planning department of your local authority before undertaking any project.

What work needs to be done to convert a garage into a living room?

First of all, a garage is not designed to be lived in. It generally lacks insulation, heating, ventilation and natural light. To transform it into a comfortable living space that complies with Luxembourg standards, a number of works are essential:

• Thermal and acoustic insulation: It's the foundation of your project, and it's also the biggest item of expenditure. It will ensure that you feel comfortable and warm (or cool) in your new living space. You'll need to install plasterboard lining to finish off the walls and paint them.
• Electrical installation and heating : This is essential if the new room is to be perfectly liveable. Provide ducts for the lights, switches and sockets (and possibly for the new roller shutters). Install heating in this room too (call in a plumber/heating engineer). Don't forget to install effective ventilation (ventilation grilles above the windows if you already have centralised ventilation).
• Windows and openings : it is essential to bring in natural light to make it a pleasant living space. Owners generally replace the garage door with a large bay window or French window. They also take the opportunity to create 2 or 3 openings to create a few extra windows, where possible (with regard to property boundaries and the structure of the building).

Finally, you'll need to plan all the finishing work: laying flooring (ideally with insulation), false ceilings, painting, etc.

What is the budget for fitting out a garage in Luxembourg?

The cost of converting a garage into a living space in Luxembourg varies considerably depending on the extent of the work, the quality of the materials used and the specific features of your project.

You should generally expect to pay between €800 and €1,500 per square metre for a complete conversion, or €12,000 to €22,500 for a standard 15 m² garage. The price may be higher depending on the cost of materials and labour.

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