Many houses in the UK have an underground room space that oversight. Due to various reasons such as isolation from the center of the house, lack of sunlight, etc. So, thus, a basement conversion is the process of converting. This underground space or cellar into a comfortable room that gives you. the option to renovate the existing space or to build a new basement.
# Why People Convert The Basement?
There are many reasons for Basement Conversion.
The first reason is that it creates extra space which gives you endless possibilities in which. The conversions can use from bedrooms to kitchens to any usable room with the best value for money.
# Best Value For Money?
That’s because when you go for other options, there are no cheap home extension options available for building an extra room it requires a foundation, structure, and much more architectural works. Whereas the possibility of a basement conversion is the easiest as it already has the basic structure completed.
Second, it increases the resale value of your house though it’s not that all type of house renovation gives you 100% return on investment but basement conversion does as it attracts potential buyers due to its increased living space which means a profitable return on investment.
In short, a basement conversion makes better use of space. As its main aim is to use the existing space for a better purpose. Along with that it also increases the value of your property. Moreover, the procedure that it undertakes is more straightforward than you think.
# What Are The Planning Requirements?
When converting an existing basement into a livable space, it does not need planning permission because it considered a permitted development and thus not going to make a difference to the external appearance of the house. But when intending to alter the external appearance of the house by adding a new unit or even by making a significant change in the usage of it then it will need planning permission.
In either case, you should consult your local planning authority or a local planning consultant like us for guidance before the start of the work. But, the requirements for basement conversion may vary depending on the council.
So, it is also advised that you consult with the council before starting any sort of building work either for basement conversion or any other construction.
# What Are Building Control Requirements?
When building a new basement or even if it’s changing the use of the existing basement into usable space, either way, it requires Building Regulation approval. Building control helps maintain the standard for both the design and construction as set by the Building Regulation.
Before carrying out any sort of structural work in your basement you should make sure that the works done by specialists who are well aware of the safety precaution and Health & Safety of the people who will live in the house and in the neighborhood, such precautions are:
1. Fire Escape Route:
Basement conversion increases the risks of escaping in case of a fire due to one entrance and exit. Access to the escape route can be in the form of another door or even a window unless it can that in case of an emergency there is a way to escape
2. Basement Waterproofing:
The basement conversion building regulations state that floors and walls in the basement need to waterproofed so on preventing water from entering the house
3. Electrics In The Basement:
Installation of any new electrics needs to installed by a registered electrician and will also need a certificate to prove it which will keep both you and the building inspector happy.
# Party Wall Agreement
If the planned work affects The Party Wall Act 1996, which states that if your property connected and shares a wall with the neighbour then it may affect the conversion.
So to complete your work you will have to speak to the owner or the leaseholder of that adjoining property whether he/she has any objection with it and then if it’s positive then you will need a Party Wall Agreement to move ahead with the project.
# Basement Conversion Cost Uk
Like all other construction works, the price of basement conversion London is not fixed. Usually, the cost for renovating is calculated on a per square metre basis.
For existing cellars that does not require any additional structural change, the cost is comparatively low. You can expect to spend about £1,500 or more or less per square metre for a regular cellar conversion. However, if you wish to increase the head height or add a few windows, you may need to pay a higher price.
On the other hand, if you want to excavate a new basement and turn it into a useable space, the cost would be higher. You can expect to spend anywhere between £2,500 to £4,500 per square metre for the technical works.
There are many other costs rather than the construction cost only. For instance, you can expect to spend about £700 for the party wall agreement, if needed. And, the cost of installing lights and others are excluded as well.
# How Do You Make An Old Basement Look Good?
The best way to make an old basement look appealing is basement conversion. After conversion, you need to do a number of things to keep the basement feel refreshing.
For example, we all know that basements tend to be super moist and humid. That is why molds like to grow in there. So, what you can do is get yourself a dehumidifier at first.
Now, use furniture that creates a contrast with the walls. Use some modern decorations. Maybe a flower vase or a few rugs might complement your basement room! Also, decorate the sofas and beds with many pillows of different shapes and sizes. This would make the room even more aesthetic.
Further, do not move away from lightight. Basements are dark naturally as there are no windows. So, using some lights would help ou lighten the room. Also, do not forget to paint the ceilings!
If the thought of basement conversion ever hits your mind, you should definitely do it! In the long run, it would be beneficial for your property.
