Conversions

Certain types of commercial properties or buildings provide prime opportunities for conversion to residential. Prior to 2015 there were building restrictions on converting commercial to residential properties but now these restrictions have been removed and many property owners are using these relaxed rules to cash in and convert to increase the value of their asset as well as generating residual income.

From disused pubs to old office blocks – our resourceful team can verify if your property can be converting used the following checklist:

1. Check if it’s an exception – certain properties such as listing buildings, located in conservation area, scientific interest or situated in military explosive zones or safety hazard zones are some of the potential exceptions to conversions. In any other case you will be required to submit architectural drawings and obtain full planning permission before you can begin development work.
2. Identify the building’s “use class” – specifically class C3 Dwellinghouses and C4 Houses for Multiple Occupation.
3. Apply for planning permission to convert your commercial property into houses, flats, apartments, or HMO. Our team will undertake architectural drawings, structural reports and the necessary paperwork to submit to your local planning department check if an Article 4 direction applies to your site before launching your project.
4. Next step is to work out your budget. Commercial property conversion typically costs more than building a residential property from scratch. However, the cost will be dependent on the size of the existing commercial property, its location, it’s structural integrity, overall state of the brickwork, foundation, and roof. In addition, the type of conversion will also impact your overall budget for example to number of flats/apartments, quality of material such as flooring, fixtures, and fittings, premium or budget kitchen/bathroom, type of heating system etc. Our team of experts can work with a specific budget and ensure you receive the highest quality build and ROI.

Although run-down commercial properties are more affordable and a better investment it is subject to structural reports. If the property fails structural integrity, then it would require complete demolition which will increase the conversion development cost tenfold. Ideal candidates for conversions office buildings, pubs, or retail premises. If you have already purchased or are looking to purchase a commercial property, then we will advise on what conversion type is possible and whether your budget can achieve the desired results.

If you are interested in converting a commercial property to residential, then please contact our team info@makemorespace.co.uk.