Counting Your Garage as Livable Space in Missouri
If you’re thinking about home improvements or assessing your property’s market value in Missouri, converting your garage into a livable area offers appealing benefits. This change not only adds extra square footage for your family’s enjoyment but can also substantially boost your home’s overall value. However, the process of officially recognizing your garage as livable space involves a few critical steps and considerations, especially if you want it counted in your home’s square footage for real estate purposes.
We caught up with a local realtor to discuss what finishing your garage could do for your home:
“Transforming a garage into additional living space can significantly enhance your home’s market appeal. In Missouri’s competitive housing market, homes with more usable square footage tend to attract more interest and higher offers.”
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Understanding the Basics
In Missouri, as in many other states, the process of counting garage space as livable square footage hinges on meeting specific building standards and codes. The general criteria focus on heating, ventilation, insulation, and accessibility. To begin, the space must be permanently heated using the same system as the rest of the house, not portable heaters. It must also be finished to the same standard as other parts of the home, which includes proper insulation, finished walls, and ceilings.
Key Requirements for Conversion
- Permits and Approvals: Before starting any conversion project, you need to obtain the necessary building permits from St. Louis County. This ensures that your plans comply with local zoning laws, building codes, and safety regulations.
- Heating and Cooling: The space must be heated and cooled with the same system used for the rest of the house. Standalone heaters or air conditioners are generally not sufficient for a space to be considered livable square footage.
- Permanent and Direct Access: The converted garage must have permanent and direct access to the rest of the house. It should also have appropriate egress to the outside, which is required for safety in case of emergencies.
- Insulation and Ventilation: Proper insulation and ventilation are crucial to meet energy codes and to ensure the space is comfortable. Walls, floors, and ceilings must be insulated to the same standards as the rest of the home.
- Flooring: The garage floor is typically raised and finished to match the interior levels and quality of the home. This might involve installing a new subfloor and finished flooring that is suitable for living areas.
- Electrical and Plumbing: Depending on the intended use of the space, additional electrical and plumbing work may be required to meet code. This includes sufficient electrical outlets, proper lighting, and potentially adding water lines or drainage if the space will include a bathroom or kitchen.
- Walls and Ceiling: The garage doors need to be replaced with standard interior walls and possibly windows. Ceilings must be finished to residential standards.
- Approval and Final Inspection: Once the conversion is completed, a final inspection by county inspectors is necessary to certify that all modifications comply with the building standards and codes. Upon approval, the space can be officially counted as livable square footage in your home’s valuation.
The Benefits of Conversion
Transforming your garage can be a fantastic way to add functional living space without the costs associated with an external extension. For families needing more room or those looking to increase their home’s market value, this can be an excellent strategy. Additionally, it can make the property more attractive to potential buyers who value more living space.
Potential Challenges
However, it’s important to consider potential downsides. In some cases, removing garage space can detract from the home’s appeal to buyers who prioritize secure or covered parking. This is especially relevant in areas where parking is at a premium. Furthermore, the initial investment for such a conversion can be significant when considering the need for permits, construction, and potentially increased property taxes.
Conclusion
Counting your garage as livable square footage in Missouri involves a detailed process of ensuring the space meets all necessary requirements for comfort, safety, and legality. While the investment and effort can be considerable, the potential to add significant value to your home makes this a worthwhile project for many homeowners. Before you begin, consult with local authorities and professionals to ensure that your new space not only adds comfort and utility to your home but also complies with all local regulations to truly enhance your home’s value.
If you’re ready for a garage upgrade, but a great way to start is with an epoxy or flake floor for your garage.
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