Covering Bolton
Bolton is about 11 miles north-west of Manchester. We also cover Farnworth (3 miles to the south-east), Westhoughton and Radcliffe.
Homes in the North West
The North West has long rows of Victorian terraced houses in its towns and cities, alongside inter-war semis and post-war estates, so rear extensions, dormer lofts and kitchen extensions are common projects.
What does a basement conversion involve?
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.
- Waterproofing design and installation
- Underpinning or lowering the floor where needed
- Ventilation, heating and electrics
What will a basement conversion cost?
Indicative costs for basement and cellar conversions. London and the South East usually sit towards the top of each range.
| 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 Bolton?
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.
- Headroom of about 2.1 m or more is needed, which may mean lowering the floor.
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.
- Free site visit. We measure up, look at access, drains and the structure, and talk through options and budget.
- Design and fixed price. You get drawings and a written price for the agreed specification before anything is ordered.
- Construction and completion. One site lead co-ordinates every trade through to the building control certificate.
Questions about a basement conversion in Bolton
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.
Do you work in Bolton?
Yes. Bolton is within our coverage for basement and cellar conversions, along with nearby Farnworth and Westhoughton.
Other towns nearby
- Basement and cellar conversions in Farnworth
- Basement and cellar conversions in Westhoughton
- Basement and cellar conversions in Radcliffe
- Basement and cellar conversions in Walkden
Learn more about basement and cellar conversions, or see every project we cover in Bolton.

