Can You Sell a Garage That’s Being Used by Someone Else?

You own a garage.
But someone else is using it.

Maybe it’s a friend, a relative, a neighbour.
Maybe they had permission once — or maybe they just started using it without asking.

Now, you want to sell… but you’re wondering:

“Can I sell the garage if it’s currently occupied?”
“What happens to the person using it?”
“Will a buyer still be interested?”

The answer is: yes, you can still sell it — but the process depends on how and why the garage is being used.

This guide explains what your options are, what garage buyers expect, and how to proceed confidently — even if someone else is currently in the space.

1. First, Identify the Type of Occupancy

Before taking action, figure out how (and why) someone is using the garage:

✅ Permission-Based Use

You loaned the garage to a friend or family member
There was no formal rental agreement
No money has changed hands
You can ask them to vacate at any time

✅ Rental Agreement or License

You rented it out (formally or informally)
There may be proof of payments
They expect some notice or legal process before being asked to leave

✅ Unauthorised Occupancy

Someone is using it without your permission
You’re not sure how they got access
They may be squatting or trespassing

Each scenario has different implications when selling.

2. Yes, You Can Sell — But Be Transparent

Whether the person inside is a tenant, a guest, or an unauthorised user, you can still legally sell the garage — provided the buyer knows the circumstances.

✅ Garage buyers are used to:

Occupied units
Inherited garages with tenants
Problem properties
Legal complexities

Hiding occupancy will only lead to delays or withdrawn offers.
Honesty helps buyers plan ahead — and makes you look more professional.

3. Option 1: Ask the User to Vacate Before Sale

If the user is there by permission and not paying rent:

Have a conversation
Set a reasonable deadline to remove belongings
Collect keys or change the locks afterward

✅ Tip: If you're planning to sell soon, give them advance notice — many people are understanding.

4. Option 2: Sell with the Person in Place

Some garage buyers are happy to:

Take over a rental agreement
Allow current use to continue short-term
Handle removal or eviction after the purchase

This works well if:

The occupant pays rent
The buyer wants income
The user agrees to cooperate with the sale

✅ Cash buyers, in particular, are flexible and often buy garages with tenants or informal users in place.

5. Option 3: Serve Notice (for Renters or Occupants)

If someone is:

Paying rent (formally or not)
Using the garage long-term
Unlikely to leave voluntarily

You may need to:

Serve written notice (typically 4–8 weeks)
Follow legal procedure, especially if money exchanged hands
Consult a solicitor for tenancy clarification

✅ Tip: Don’t attempt eviction or lock changes yourself — follow legal steps or sell with the occupant in place.

6. What If It’s an Unauthorised Occupant?

If someone is using your garage without permission:

Document the situation (photos, timeline, any communications)
Avoid confrontation — contact a legal advisor
Many buyers will still purchase, especially if you're honest

Some garage buyers specialize in properties with:

Trespassing issues
Disputes
Title problems

✅ Expect a slightly reduced offer — but many buyers see past the problem and focus on long-term value.

7. Can You Sell an Inherited Garage Someone Else Is Using?

Yes — but clarify:

Who gave them permission to use it
Whether you’ve officially inherited or registered ownership
What your intentions are (clear before or after the sale)

Buyers may ask:

Is the occupant aware the garage is being sold?
Are they likely to leave?
Will you handle the clearance, or will they?

✅ Sellers in this position often prefer working with cash-for-garages buyers who don’t need vacant possession on day one.

8. Legal Considerations for Sellers

Always:

Be honest about current usage
Disclose any written or verbal agreements
Consult a solicitor if you’re unsure about tenancy rights
Keep records of communication with the user

✅ This protects you from legal disputes later and makes the transaction cleaner.

9. How Garage Buyers Handle These Situations

Professional buyers often:

Accept occupied garages
Handle all legal paperwork and tenant agreements
Include clearance or changeover in the sale timeline
Proceed with or without vacant possession

✅ They buy based on potential, not current issues — so don’t assume someone using your garage makes it unsellable.

10. Steps to Sell a Garage Someone Else Is Using

Identify the nature of the use (permission, rental, or unauthorised)
Gather any agreements or payment records
Take photos and assess condition
Get a cash offer from a professional buyer
Discuss options: vacant possession or sold as-is
Proceed with legal support and full disclosure

Final Thoughts

Someone using your garage doesn’t mean you’re stuck.
With the right buyer and approach, you can still sell it quickly, legally, and with minimal stress.

Whether it’s a friend storing tools, a tenant paying rent, or an unexpected occupant, the key is simple: be clear, act professionally, and work with a buyer who understands these situations.

Your garage still has value — and selling it could be easier than you think.