As more baby boomers retire and move onto their next stage in life, they’re considering alternative living situations. Many choose to move in with their children as they look to downsize, spend time with family, and if needed, have convenient access to care. Multigenerational households are also becoming more popular due to the rising costs of retirement communities and assisted living.
Converting a garage into a mother-in-law suite is one practical solution. It offers a separate living space that promotes independence and privacy for both retirees and primary homeowners. A garage conversion is generally a less expensive undertaking than a home addition. If you’re considering the in-law suite option, read on for an overview of the various considerations.
Key Questions to Ask Before Starting a Garage Conversion
A project of this size will impact your home and property in several ways, so it’s important to consider all aspects before fully committing.
How will an in-law suite garage conversion affect parking and storage?
Since you are losing the use of your garage, any vehicles normally parked inside will need to be moved elsewhere. Alternative parking includes the driveway or another area on your property, a carport, or on-street parking.
In addition, other garage-kept items such as tools and garden supplies will need to be stored elsewhere. Storage options include a shed or other outdoor building, attic or basement, laundry or mud room, or closets.
Check local parking ordinances and HOA regulations before finalizing any plans. A reputable contractor or design-build firm can assist with planning and implementing any required adjustments.
What steps must be taken regarding heating, cooling, and insulation?
This newly created space will, of course, require appropriate heating and cooling to stay comfortable year round. It’s important to assess the home’s existing HVAC system to see if it can support the additional living area. If not, it must be upgraded if possible, or a separate system should be installed.
Proper insulation in the floor, ceiling, and walls is another factor that helps the HVAC system work efficiently for climate controlled comfort. A qualified HVAC contractor will help navigate the necessary changes.
What kind of plumbing does an in-law suite need?
The self-sufficient mother-in-law suite contains a kitchen and full bathroom, each needing adequate water supply and proper drainage. If the home’s existing plumbing isn’t readily accessible, new lines, drains, and related fixtures must be installed. A licensed plumber can assess your home’s plumbing system and recommend appropriate upgrades and/or additions.
How should we handle the utilities?
A separate electrical panel located in or near the in-law suite offers safe, convenient access for residents. Separate utility bills, where possible, for electric, gas, water, and sewer help monitor each living area’s costs. This helps keep budgets on track, providing a realistic overview of everyone’s monthly expenditures. Municipalities and utility companies have their own guidelines as per local codes and ordinances, so separate billing may or may not be an option. Consult the proper officials, utility representatives, and contractors for details for your area.
Is it necessary to have separate entrances?
Yes, it is. Separate entrances offer a sense of privacy for residents of the in-law suite and the original household. They encourage independence and normalcy for all residents, and help prevent unnecessary interruptions to the daily routine. It’s also helpful when entertaining guests, having home repairs done, and other similar situations.
Check Building and Permitting Codes for Garage Conversions
When converting an existing garage, homeowners are required to adhere to standard building codes and ordinances. Obtaining appropriate permits and inspections ensures that the garage conversion is structurally sound, legally compliant, and fit for habitation. Building codes are also designed to keep residents safe by helping prevent hazards such as fire, electrical, and structural issues. If homeowners choose to bypass these processes, they risk stoppage of work, fines, penalties, or even forced conversion reversal.
Without proper permitting, it will be difficult, if not impossible, to obtain insurance coverage for a garage conversion. In addition, a non-compliant project can be a detriment to property value and future resale potential, and may raise issues when trying to file an insurance claim.
Common requirements for a mother in-law suite can include:
- Local ordinances may require homeowners to be year round residents on the property where the in-law suite exists.
- Mother-in-law suites may be required to have an exterior entrance into the space, one that is separate from the primary home’s entry doors.
- The garage conversion may require separate water and sewer connections. Many municipalities, however, do allow a total of three plumbing connections with one sewer permit.
- Sufficient off-street parking, such as a carport, driveway, or other designated parking area may be a requirement for certain municipalities.
There may be additional requirements for your area. Check with local officials and/or a qualified design-build firm for additional details.
What Rooms and Features Should Be Included in the In-Law Suite?
Square footage for the in-law suite can range from 350-900 sq. ft., depending on the size of the garage. Less square footage will create a compact yet comfortable space, housing functional, basic amenities. A larger garage offers slightly expanded features and storage, such as a larger kitchen, living area, or bathroom.
All mother-in-law suites should include a bedroom with a locking door. This not only provides privacy, but appropriately divides the suite to designate a quiet, restful sleeping area.
A small kitchen or kitchenette is a must-have, and should include a refrigerator, sink, cooktop/range, microwave, countertops, and storage. For optimum function and comfort, select kitchen appliances and elements that are proportional to the space. The well-appointed kitchen provides independence and flexibility, allowing residents to prepare meals and entertain as they wish.
The private bathroom should include a shower or tub, sink, toilet, and storage. Consider using universal design features like a curbless shower to enable residents of varying abilities to navigate the space safely and easily.
Another necessary feature is a living room or lounge area. Often connected to the kitchen, this space houses a sofa and chair/s, a television and console, a small desk, and similar items suitable for daily living, relaxing, hobbies, and entertaining guests.
As space allows, include a small nook for a compact stackable washer/dryer. These convenient amenities eliminate the hassle of doing laundry elsewhere while offering an additional layer of independence and flexibility.
Other Design Considerations for Your Garage Conversion
The garage conversion’s exterior should complement your existing home design. Not only is this aesthetically pleasing, it is often a requirement by the local homeowners’ association or municipality, especially in an area with historic homes.
Ample lighting, inside and out, is a must for safety, function, and convenience for residents and guests. Certain lighting choices, such as outdoor fixtures, may be dictated by local building codes. Doors and windows also factor into the general lighting plan. Not only do they allow natural light in, they also provide exit points in case of fire or another hazardous situation.
The ventilation system is another necessity, facilitating a healthy environment for residents and guests. Benefits of a properly ventilated space include good air quality, proper circulation, and humidity and mold control. The HVAC, ceiling fans, vents, and operable windows all contribute to a healthy ventilation system.
Soundproofing elements, such as wall, ceiling, and floor insulation, acoustic tiles, sound blocking doors/windows, and draperies will help soften normal daily disturbances. A combination of these noise reducing measures will help create a comfortable environment in each area of the home.
Ensuring Accessibility and Safety in a Garage Conversion
Convenience and safety are important for any home, and the in-law suite is no exception. While your in-law suite residents may not immediately need specific accessibility features, it doesn’t hurt to consider potential future needs. A universal design plan is a wise choice, as it offers user friendly, easy access amenities for individuals of all ages and abilities.
These amenities include slip resistant, easy to clean flooring like hardwood, luxury vinyl planks, or matte tile with small grout lines. Additional options include wider doorways, pocket doors, no threshold showers, handheld shower heads, and grab bars for the tub/shower. Toggle light switches, lever door knobs, and easy to open windows are other good universal design choices.
Naturally, a garage conversion that is compliant with building codes supports the general safety of the suite’s residents. These safeguards not only help support the quality and longevity of the home, but help protect the lives of the entire household.
Is a Garage Conversion Worth the Investment?
Though the considerations for the mother-in-law suite may initially seem overwhelming, the idea has great potential. Numerous families throughout the U.S. have chosen to create a fully functional, comfortable, and attractive space for their loved ones. The decision to convert a garage to an in-law suite not only adds to your home’s value, it’s an investment into your loved ones’ future and quality of life.
Blackline Renovations, Your Garage Conversion Specialists
Since 2002, Blackline Renovations has enjoyed providing quality design-build services for Dallas, TX homeowners. One of our specialties includes the ADU, or accessory dwelling unit, many of which become mother-in-law suites. Whether converting your existing garage or adding a second story above the garage, our services are customized to meet your family’s needs.
From planning to beautiful completion, the Blackline team walks you through the entire process. Our premier design-build contractor services help bring your vision to fruition, creating those important spaces for all your loved ones. We take the guesswork out of the process, creating and executing a plan to your complete satisfaction.
Our portfolio illustrates our expertise in ADUs/garage conversions, as well as our experience remodeling kitchens, living rooms, bed and bathrooms, utility/mud rooms, and other home additions.
Give us a call at 214-827-3747 or if you prefer, schedule a consultation with our talented team. It would be our pleasure to answer your questions regarding an in-law suite or other home remodeling project.
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