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Find a Tradesman & Compare Costs for Local Tradesmen

Since our launch in early 2010 Building Contractors Supermarket have rapidly become the No: 1 UK Builders site where you can Find a Tradesman and compare costs for UK Builders and Local Tradesmen.

Basement Conversion Costs

To compare costs for a Basement Conversion Click Here
To compare costs for Architect Plans Click Here

Basement Conversion

Basement conversions are not a cheap option however they're done. It's usually worthwhile in high-value urban areas where you've run out of other options and have already done the loft or can't extend for some reason.

In terms of increasing the value of your house compared to the project cost, the same rule applies with any home improvement. Research what homes with similar extra space in your area are worth and do the sums.

In the current market most people are thinking long-term added value, and for some families simply getting the extra space they need without moving is what matters.

Weigh up the costs

When it comes to actually digging out a new basement space rather than converting a cellar, the costs spiral. This only makes sense if the property value is also high, as in central London.

Although basement conversions became popular in the recent property boom years, work has been steadily coming in throughout the recession.
Recently people have been reluctant to sell at lower prices so have put their money in the basement, so to speak.

Keep the neighbours happy

Neighbours will understandably be nervous if you're digging next to their foundations. The Party Wall Act must be complied with, which means neighbours sharing a wall must be consulted. They can request a written report answering any questions about subsidence or other issues.
Avoid complaints by talking to all neighbours about your plans before any official correspondence so they know what to expect. Digging out a new basement or lowering cellar floors means moving earth away from the site, causing more disruption.

Points to remember

Planning permission is not usually needed for a conversion unless the external appearance is substantially altered or the building is listed.

Digging a new basement involving major work is likely to need planning permission.

See http://prestige-renovations.com/html/basement-conversion.html

Building regulations apply to turn a basement into a habitable space, including ventilation, fire escape routes and ceiling height.

Don't cut corners. If damp gets in it's very difficult and expensive to correct.

Do get as much natural light in as possible by adding windows near ground level, light wells and stairwells.

Ventilation, lighting and colour schemes are crucial so use ceiling lights and light, bright décor. Avoid cosy clutter in favour of airy, modern minimalism.

Find a Tradesman - How It Works

If you haven’t posted an inquiry before for Local Tradesmen or UK Builders services and would like a few more details on how the system works you should take a quick read on our FAQ’s section which explains the procedures to Find a Tradesman and to compare costs for UK Builders.

Customer Service

If you still need help to compare costs and would like to speak to a human rather than completing an inquiry form then we would be delighted to hear from you.

Just give our Customer Support Desk a call or send us an e-mail and we will be happy to phone you back.

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