Barn/dovecote Conversion

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I'm considering doing a barn/dovecote conversion, not something I've done before. This would be to let the property for some income in the short term with the intention of later retiring to live in it.

Am I correct in thinking that unlike a house renovation, if doing a conversion you can reclaim VAT on materials and labour ?

Also anyone know any sites where I could get an approximate estimate of cost per sq m for barn conversions?
I was guessing in the area of £1000?

 

[RogerS]

Mike's your expert, I guess, but a quick Google suggests Yes!

https://www.gov.uk/vat-building-new-home

 

[Mike G]

.....Also anyone know any sites where I could get an approximate estimate of cost per sq m for barn conversions?
I was guessing in the area of £1000?

If you employ a builder to do it expect to pay in the region of £2000 to £2500 PSM. Barn conversions are more difficult and expensive than building the same building from scratch, because a poor quality/ damaged/ deteriorating building is in the way.

Remember that getting permission to convert buildings for residential use is generally almost impossible if it is outside a village envelope or an urban area. Many local authorities would rather see such a building fall down than have it converted to a house. Before you do anything about your idea, get an opinion from you local Planning Department.

 

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Thanks for the replies guys. Its still at the "lets weigh up the pros and cons stage" - but planning has already been granted for the conversion. I would intend to oversee the work myself and subcontract where needed. I've done this on an extension to my present house so do have some experience. I'm also a formerly corgi(or gas safe) plumber so can do a bit of the work myself.