Building regulations for garage & business rates

[sarahjane13]

Hi
I've had a quote for converting 2/3 of my garage in to a waxing room. The builders said that I only need building regs if someone is sleeping in there but they weren't sure if I needed them if using it for business.
Has anyone done anything similar and if so did you need building regs?
Also, what sort of business rates are you paying on converted garages?
Thanks!

 

[BannerPenguin]

Every council can be different so I'd recommend speaking to them. Normally you need planning permission and as it will affect traffic in the area then neighbours can object etc. so I definitely wouldn't get your hopes up until you have spoken to them and get their agreement in writing. Even if they say you don't need planning permission, get it in writing. They may want you to pay a fair amount of money before giving you an answer and may even require architect plans etc. so all worth keeping in mind. Hopefully, you don't have to go that route as it's a lengthy process.