If you’re considering building a detached garage with an apartment attached, you’re in the right place. A detached garage is a stand-alone structure for storing vehicles, while the apartment can be used for additional living space.
Building a detached garage with an apartment can provide a convenient and secure place for residents to park their vehicles while offering additional living space.
However, it’s essential to carefully plan and consider a few critical factors before beginning construction on a detached garage with an apartment. Our apartment option garage plans are drawn originally as “U” (utility) occupancy per IRC. An extra plan is included as a recommended layout for an apartment that fits that garage. Living space is R3 (residential) per IRC and that requires more to build than the basic “U” version. The requirements for living space can include HVAC, plumbing, egress and fire safety, and more, depending on your local jurisdiction’s requirements. See our category page for more details: Apartment Option Garage Plans
Let’s go over five things to do before building a detached garage with an apartment, including determining the size and capacity of both the garage and the apartment, choosing the right location, selecting the appropriate materials and design, and obtaining necessary permits and approvals.
Determine the Size and Capacity of the Garage
Before building a detached apartment garage, it’s important to determine the size and capacity of both the garage and the apartment. Here are a few things to consider:
- The number of vehicles that need to be stored: If you have a lot of cars, you’ll likely need a larger detached garage to accommodate them all.
- Types of vehicles: Consider what kind of vehicles will be stored in the detached garage. If you own large vehicles, like SUVs or pickup trucks, choose a detached garage that’s big enough for them.
- Future expansion plans: If you use the apartment as a personal living space, you’ll want to ensure it’s the right size and layout for your needs.
Consider the Location of Your Detached Garage
When building a detached garage with an attached apartment, consider the structure’s location on your property. Some things to think about:
- Proximity to the main living area: You’ll want to place the detached garage in a location that is easily accessible to the main living area of your home.
- Accessibility from the street: Make sure the location of the detached garage allows for easy access from the road.
- Room for privacy: If you plan on having tenants occupy the attached apartment, you’ll want to ensure the detached garage location allows for some privacy.
Determine the Best Design and Materials for Your Apartment Garage
When building an apartment garage, carefully considering the structure’s design is important. Here are a few things to think about:
- Materials: Choose materials that are durable and require minimal maintenance. If you plan on using the apartment as a living space, invest in higher-quality materials to ensure the comfort and safety of any tenants. You’ll also want to consider the overall aesthetic of the detached garage and how it fits in with the rest of your property.
- Insulation: Proper insulation is crucial for the garage and the attached apartment. In the garage, insulation can help regulate temperature and reduce noise. In the apartment, it can help keep the space comfortable and energy-efficient.
- Ventilation: Proper ventilation is vital for both the garage and the apartment. In the garage, it helps reduce the buildup of fumes and other potentially harmful substances. In the apartment, it will help regulate indoor air quality and prevent moisture buildup.
- HVAC: If you plan on using the attached apartment as a living space, you’ll need to install a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. This will ensure the area is comfortable year-round and can help reduce energy costs.
- Plumbing: If you plan on using the attached apartment as a living space, you’ll need to install plumbing to provide access to clean water and sewage services. This may include installing pipes, faucets, toilets, and other fixtures.
Consider Your Budget for Your Detached Apartment Garage
Building a detached garage apartment can be a great way to add extra living space to your property and increase your home’s value.
However, it’s important to carefully plan and budget for the project to ensure it stays within your financial means. Here are some factors to consider when planning and budgeting for your detached garage apartment.
Hiring contractors: Hiring contractors can be a significant expense, but it can also save you time and ensure that the work is done correctly. Carefully research and compare contractors in your area to find one who fits your budget and has experience building garage apartments. Be sure to get a detailed contract that outlines the scope of work and cost of the project.
Project materials: The materials you use will also significantly affect the cost. Consider the type of materials you want, such as wood, brick, or concrete, and how they will affect the project’s overall cost. It’s also a good idea to shop around and compare prices for different materials to find the best deal.
Incidental and unexpected expenses: It’s important to plan for unforeseen expenses that may come up during the project. These could include unanticipated building code violations or the need to replace damaged materials. Set aside a contingency fund in your budget to cover any unexpected expenses that may arise.
Obtaining Necessary Permits and Approvals
Proper permits and approvals are essential in building your detached apartment garage. Not only will they ensure that your project is up to code, but they can also help protect you legally in the event of any issues that may arise. Here’s what you need to know about getting the necessary permits and approvals for your project.
First, check with your local building department to find out what permits and approvals are required for your project. You may need to obtain a building permit, electrical permit, plumbing permit, and zoning approval. This will vary depending on where you live, so research is vital.
In addition to the necessary permits and approvals, you may also need to follow specific guidelines or regulations when building your detached garage apartment. This could include maintaining a particular setback from the property line or adhering to specific building codes.
Ready to Start Building? Contact Behm Design Today!
Ready to get started on your dream detached garage project? Contact Behm Design today! Our experienced professionals can help you select building plans to bring your vision to life.