Covering Archway
Our coverage around Archway (N19) also includes Holloway (1 miles to the south) and Muswell Hill.
Homes in London
London projects often mean working on period terraces with neighbours on both sides, tight access through the house and conservation area controls, so careful planning and party wall work matter as much as the build.
What is a basement conversion?
Everything below ground depends on keeping water out. We design the waterproofing system (usually a cavity drain membrane with a pump, or tanking) to the relevant British Standard guidance, then add insulation, ventilation, light and an escape route. New basements involve underpinning and a party wall process and are designed with a structural engineer.
- Lightwells and windows for daylight and escape
- Ventilation, heating and electrics
- Finished floors, walls and ceilings
How much does a basement conversion cost in Archway?
Typical ranges for basement and cellar conversions. Ground conditions, access and specification move the final figure, which we fix in writing before work starts.
| Basement and cellar conversions | Guide price incl. VAT |
|---|---|
| Existing cellar conversion | £1,900 to £3,000 per m² |
| New basement excavation | £4,200 to £6,600 per m² |
How is a basement conversion approved in Archway?
In England we deal with the council’s planning team for permission or a lawful development certificate, with building control (the council or a registered building control approver) for inspections, and with neighbours under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 where it applies.
Converting an existing cellar with no external changes usually does not need planning permission in England. Digging a new basement or adding a lightwell often does, and many councils have basement policies.
What should I think about before starting?
- Groundwater levels drive the waterproofing design and cost.
- A pump for the drainage system needs a battery back-up.
What happens after I enquire?
- Send us the details. Give us a postcode, a rough idea of size and some photos, by phone, form or the guide price tool.
- We visit and measure. A surveyor checks the house, the boundaries and the ground, and discusses what is realistic.
- Price and paperwork. The design is priced line by line, and we submit the planning and building control applications.
- We build it. Work follows an agreed programme, with inspections at each stage and a final sign-off.
What people ask before starting
How long does it take?
About 6 to 12 weeks for a cellar conversion and 16 to 30 weeks for a new basement.
Will my neighbours be affected?
New basements usually need party wall agreements. We handle the notices and surveyors.
Who deals with the council for a project in Archway?
We do. We prepare the drawings, submit planning or permitted development paperwork if needed, and arrange building control inspections.
Other towns nearby
- Basement and cellar conversions in Holloway
- Basement and cellar conversions in Muswell Hill
- Basement and cellar conversions in Camden Town
- Basement and cellar conversions in Highbury
Learn more about basement and cellar conversions, or see every project we cover in Archway.