Hack Detached Garage To Make It A Rental?

[Carmen Garza]

Is it ok to turn a detached 2-car garage into an efficiency apartment? I'll be adding a bathroom and kitchen. Will it cost too much to add the plumbing and electrical? This is my primary residence (no HOA) and I live in Texas.

[Dave Spooner]

@Carmen Garza If it's detached, adding plumbing and electrical could be fairly pricey. This doesn't mean it's too much, just prepare for something more expensive that putting new mechanical in an existing home.

I would strongly suggest checking with your local municipality though first. The property may not be zoned for multi-family or additional units. They may also not love the idea of the detached garage. You definitely don't want to get too far down that path and find out you can't complete it!