Covering Bicester
Alongside Bicester, we also cover Brackley, Buckingham (10 miles to the north-east) and Oxford.
Homes in the South East
Housing across the South East mixes inter-war semis, post-war estates and older cottages in villages and market towns, so rear and side extensions, hip-to-gable lofts and garage conversions all come up regularly.
What goes into a basement conversion?
A basement conversion turns an existing cellar into dry, usable rooms, or excavates a new basement under a house. Converting an existing cellar is far simpler and cheaper than digging a new one, and often does not need planning permission.
- Damp and structural survey
- Waterproofing design and installation
- Ventilation, heating and electrics
How much should I budget for a basement conversion?
Guide prices for basement and cellar conversions, including VAT where it applies. Your fixed price is confirmed in writing after the survey.
| 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 |
Do you need permission for a basement conversion in Bicester?
English projects need planning clearance from the local council, building regulations sign-off from building control, and party wall notices where the work is on or near a shared boundary. We prepare and manage all three.
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?
- New basements nearly always involve the Party Wall Act in England and Wales.
- Headroom of about 2.1 m or more is needed, which may mean lowering the floor.
How does the project run?
- Start with a conversation. A short call or the online form is enough for us to understand what you want to build.
- Survey at your house. We look at the existing structure, services and access, and agree what the design needs to achieve.
- 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
Does a cellar conversion need planning permission?
Usually not if nothing changes outside. New basements and lightwells often do.
Will my neighbours be affected?
New basements usually need party wall agreements. We handle the notices and surveyors.
How do I get a price for basement and cellar conversions in Bicester?
Use the guide price tool for a ballpark figure, then book a visit for a fixed written price for the agreed specification.
Also covering
- Basement and cellar conversions in Brackley
- Basement and cellar conversions in Buckingham
- Basement and cellar conversions in Oxford
- Basement and cellar conversions in Banbury
Learn more about basement and cellar conversions, or see every project we cover in Bicester.