At Supa Group, we’re often asked about turning an existing garage into a livable space – whether it’s a bedroom, study, or living area. While the idea seems straightforward, there’s much more to it than meets the eye.

The appeal of converting a garage is clear – the structure is already there, so why not repurpose it for a more practical use than parking a car or storing old boxes? On the surface, it seems like a quick and affordable way to add an extra room to your home. But that's not quite the case.

Below, we’ll break down the key considerations for garage extensions vs. home extensions, the challenges involved, and why proper planning and building permissions are essential.

Comparing garage extensions vs. home extensions

Homeowners often weigh the benefits of garage extensions against traditional home extensions, as both can add valuable living space. Garage extensions are typically seen as a cost-effective way to utilise existing structures, but they often come with limitations. Conversely, home extensions provide greater design flexibility but demand higher budgets and longer timelines.

Garage extensions often involve converting or building over existing structures. This can save on material costs and construction time compared to a full home extension. However, these projects frequently face restrictions, including parking requirements, structural challenges, and compliance with setback regulations. In contrast, home extensions allow for customisation of layout and design but usually require more significant investment and planning.

Boundary and setback considerations

Garage walls are commonly constructed on property boundaries, which can limit options for expansion. Setback regulations often require upper-storey extensions to be stepped back from the boundary, reducing usable space and affecting the overall design. Home extensions, while more flexible, may also face similar zoning restrictions but offer greater freedom to adapt the layout to meet these rules.

Stair access and space loss

Adding a second storey to a garage requires internal stair access, which impacts the ground and upper-floor layouts. These design compromises often limit the practicality of the added space. Home extensions, on the other hand, typically provide more seamless integration of stairs or additional access points, making them a better option for maximising usability.

Engineering and structural considerations

Garage extensions rely on the stability of the existing structure, which must be assessed to ensure it can bear the weight of additional construction. Proper drainage systems are also essential for preventing water damage and managing heavy rainfall. Home extensions may require similar engineering considerations, but starting from scratch can provide more control over structural integrity and compliance with the National Construction Code.

Parking requirements and restrictions

In urban areas such as inner Melbourne, parking requirements can heavily influence decisions about garage extensions. Many councils mandate a minimum number of parking spaces per property, which could limit or complicate plans to convert a garage. Home extensions do not typically face this challenge, offering more freedom in design and use of space.

The risks of improper garage conversions

It’s tempting to think you can skip the hassle of planning by simply adding plaster, carpet, and a door. Unfortunately, many DIY conversions or jobs done by unqualified operators often overlook essential compliance requirements.

Many “backyard” builders or handymen offer garage conversions for cash, skipping proper permits, drawings, or contracts. While this might save money in the short term, it comes with significant risks:

Non-compliance with building codes is a common issue. Under the National Construction Code (NCC), garages are classified as Class 10 buildings, which aren’t designed for habitation. They lack windows, proper insulation, and other features required for a livable space. Non-compliant conversions often need to be reverted to their original purpose (as a garage) before selling the property. Additionally, without professional oversight, the space may not meet safety or engineering standards.

How Supa Group approaches garage conversions

At Supa Group, we believe in creating lasting, high-quality living spaces that add value and comfort to your home. While garage conversions may seem like a quick fix, we view them as part of a broader renovation strategy to maximise their potential. For a garage to be legally converted into a livable space, it must meet the requirements for a Class 1 building, which involves:

1. Obtaining proper permits through a registered building surveyor.
2. Upgrading the space to meet National Construction Code standards, including insulation, windows, and ventilation.
3. Ensuring the structure complies with drainage and other engineering requirements.

Our professional approach ensures that every detail is addressed, from safety and compliance to design and functionality.

Why Supa Group believes in larger renovation projects

Rather than focusing solely on standalone garage conversions, we incorporate garage spaces into larger, cohesive home renovations. This approach allows us to achieve seamless integration, ensuring that a garage conversion feels like a natural extension of your home rather than an afterthought. By considering the entire property, we create spaces that are both practical and visually harmonious.

Standalone conversions can be limiting in scope and may not fully meet the needs of a growing family or evolving lifestyle. Larger renovations provide the opportunity to design spaces that serve you well into the future, offering flexibility and adaptability as your needs change over time.

Compliance and safety are integral to every project we take on. We adhere to strict legal and safety standards, which eliminates the risks associated with DIY or substandard conversions. This ensures that the finished space is not only beautiful but also safe, functional, and durable.

By approaching garage conversions as part of a holistic renovation plan, we help homeowners unlock the full potential of their property. Whether it’s creating an open-plan living area, adding functional storage, or designing a second storey, our process tailored to meet your specific needs and deliver long-term value.