Garage Conversion - architect costs

LondonRoad · 11-07-2009, 20:42

I'm just wondering if any of you have had a garage conversion, if so costs.

At this stage I'm mainly wondering about architect costs. I've had 2 quotes, one for £430 and the other £600 - quite a difference. I'm just wondering if I should be concerned if the low quote is too low and will try to make money off me in other ways.

As you can probably tell I don't know any architects.

Peter_ · 11-07-2009, 23:00

Here is some links with the requirements for conversion http://www.planningportal.gov.uk/eng...315233105.html

http://www.ourproperty.co.uk/guides/...ur_garage.html

Are you within 200 miles of Derby if so click this link http://www.garageconversionplans.co....conversion.php

LondonRoad · 11-07-2009, 23:07

Thanks Moldova. Research appreciated but Hoots Mon this only applies to sassenachs

I'm within smelling distance of the delightfull Tunnocks factory in Uddingston, near Glasgow.

http://www.tunnocks.co.uk/index1.htm

moaningmags · 11-07-2009, 23:16

OOooohh me too, well depending which way the wind is blowing.
Not a clue about the garage tho, sorry

Tunnocks teacakes, caramel wafers, caramel logs mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm

Peter_ · 11-07-2009, 23:17

Here is some Scottish information then.

http://www.clacks.gov.uk/site/docume...thinadwelling/

http://www.dhdesignltd.co.uk/Some-Qu...-May-Have-.php

LondonRoad · 11-07-2009, 23:29

Quote:

Originally Posted by moaningmags

OOooohh me too, well depending which way the wind is blowing.
Not a clue about the garage tho, sorry

Tunnocks teacakes, caramel wafers, caramel logs mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm

My diet regime involves trying to walk past the front door of their shop on the main street.

hasn't worked yet.

repeat mantra

don't ask for square loaf
caramel cake is bad

don't ask for square loaf
caramel cake is bad

don't ask for square loaf
caramel cake is bad

don't ask for square loaf
caramel cake is bad.

......enters front door
waits queue..

" 2 square loaves and 2 caramel cakes please."

mantra is workng well

Peter_ · 11-07-2009, 23:41

What is a square loaf by Tunnocks never heard of it.

moaningmags · 11-07-2009, 23:55

It could be what we call a plain loaf. Tastes better then pan bread for some reason, has a different consistency.

http://www.tunnock.co.uk/index2.htm

Don't see it there so must be fresh baked in their shop. And omg their snowballs are awesome!

Harmitage I used to buy their caramel cake by the slab

LondonRoad · 12-07-2009, 00:32

Quote:

Originally Posted by Moldova

What is a square loaf by Tunnocks never heard of it.

As Mags says also called a plain, I think in some parts of England it used to be referred to as a batch loaf.

It has a very dark top crust and lighter bottom crust both of which are crusty. The bread is lighter, chewier and tastier than most mass produced square/plain loaves available.

I think they do bake it in the factory, as they do the caramel cake. These are only available locally and on certain days. The loaf is sold as a whole loaf but they will put it through a slicer in the shop if you want.

If you like an outsider though, cut it yourself to the desired thickness, smother with butter (1/2 inch thick is reccomended) and the filling of your choice (not necessary) and enjoy.

**Rob** · 12-07-2009, 11:28

I think there was a topic here somwhere

Peter_ · 12-07-2009, 11:52

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rob

I think there was a topic here somwhere

Tunnocks don't make them

martyh · 12-07-2009, 12:07

i'm in the construction industry myself and have done a few garage conversions
my advice is forget about the architect, you don't need one
garage conversions can be dealt with quite easily by a competant builder ,just pick one who can give you references and try to see some of his work .If he is a good company he would take care of any plans required and give you advice on any planning issues .I can't because i don't do work in scotland and the regs are different
so good luck hope all goes well

fireman328 · 12-07-2009, 13:22

Ask for 3 quotes and take the lowest

martyh · 12-07-2009, 13:32

Quote:

Originally Posted by fireman328

Ask for 3 quotes and take the lowest

doing that is how people run into problems with contractors
by all means get as many quotes as you like but choose a contractor with the best work record even if he isn't the cheapest

remember that cost is not the only concideration

joglynne · 12-07-2009, 16:24

Have a drive around where you live, if you have houses built in the same style as your own so much the better, and see if you can spot any new extensions. You may feel a bit of a plank knocking on their doors but you should get the names of some builders worth considering.

You could also get an earful about which ones not to touch with a bargepole which is always very useful.