Covering Brent
We work in Brent (HA9) and the places around it, including Wembley, Harrow and Greenford.
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?
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.
- Waterproofing design and installation
- Ventilation, heating and electrics
- Finished floors, walls and ceilings
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 |
How is a basement conversion approved in Brent?
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.
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?
- Start with a conversation. A short call or the online form is enough for us to understand what you want to build.
- 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 Brent
Does a cellar conversion need planning permission?
Usually not if nothing changes outside. New basements and lightwells often do.
How do you keep a basement dry?
With a designed waterproofing system, usually a cavity drain membrane draining to a pump, sometimes combined with tanking.
How do I get a price for basement and cellar conversions in Brent?
Use the guide price tool for a ballpark figure, then book a visit for a fixed written price for the agreed specification.
Basement and cellar conversions in nearby towns
- Basement and cellar conversions in Wembley
- Basement and cellar conversions in Harrow
- Basement and cellar conversions in Greenford
- Basement and cellar conversions in Northolt
Learn more about basement and cellar conversions, or see every project we cover in Brent.