A basement conversion can be a cost-effective and creative way to increase the size of your home. Whether you want extra bedrooms, a swimming pool or cinema room, it can give you a new dimension to your property.
London basement conversions are an increasingly popular option for homeowners looking to expand their properties without moving to a larger house. They’re also a great way to add value to your home.
Refurbishing & Renovating Existing Cellars & Basements
If you have a basement or cellar that is not in use, it could be a great opportunity to turn it into a useful space. This extra space is often at a premium in London homes and if you’re looking to add value to your property, updating it could be an excellent move.
A basement contractor london can help you transform your basement into a living space you’ll love. There are many different possibilities, from a wine cellar to an in-home cinema and home entertainment suite.
Regardless of the type of conversion you’re planning, it’s important to get it right. Before starting work, it’s a good idea to carefully examine every area of your basement for signs of damage or issues.
For example, look for cracks in the walls and floors, puddling water, slow leaks and suspicious plumbing or electrical problems. If you notice any of these issues, call a professional and have them inspected.
Underground Garages & Lift Garages
An underground garage is a great way to make the most of your existing space. This type of garage is designed to double your parking space without having to build new buildings or arrange new land.
These types of garages can be used to store cars, bikes, boats, and even water bikes. These garages can be installed inside residential homes or business offices.
They can also be used to secure expensive vehicles. The main advantage of these garages is that they are safe for your belongings and reduce the risk of vehicle theft.
Alternatively, a lift garage is an ideal solution for a homeowner who needs to increase their parking capacity. This is because it can safely park one vehicle underground and a second car on top.
With the rising costs of property in London and the South East, these garages have become increasingly popular. There are several configurations to choose from and the position of the garage is important too.
Light Wells & Sunken Terraces
Often overlooked as a possible design solution, light wells and sunken terraces are an excellent way to bring more natural sunlight to your basement without taking up too much precious ground space. And there are a few different ways to go about it, as you’ll see below!
For one, a light well is a great way to showcase your garden’s best bits. They’re also a smart way to create a little extra outdoor space and make the most of your property’s existing footprint.
The same goes for sunken terraces, which can be an ideal location for entertaining guests or a place to enjoy the outdoors. They can also be a good spot for kids to play and explore while being kept safe by their parents. The best part is that you can add a lot of style to your sunken lounge with some fresh plants or small trees! The secret to creating a good sunken garden is in the planning and design.
Planning Permission
Planning permission may not be required in most cases, especially when extending an existing basement or cellar. Nevertheless, the planning process for basements can be complicated and it is best to seek expert advice from an architect.
The policy on a basement varies from one area to another and is always under review, so it is worth checking with your local council before starting work. However, if your basement is intended to be a separate unit of accommodation and does not alter the external appearance of the property, there are few reasons why it will not be approved.
You should also ensure you comply with the Party Wall Act 1996 if neighbouring properties share walls. This will involve advising your neighbours of the proposed works and providing them with copies of the EDCS (Environment Design and Construction Scheme) before any work is carried out.
Specialist basement contractors offering a design and build service will handle your planning, Building Regulations approval and any Party Wall agreements as part of their services. This is a proactive approach to basement construction and helps avoid any potential issues.
