Covering Coulsdon
Coulsdon is about 13 miles south of London. We also cover Purley (2 miles to the north-east), Banstead and Sutton.
Homes in London
Much of London’s housing is Victorian and Edwardian terraces, which is why side return extensions, rear dormers and mansards are so common. Many streets are in conservation areas, and several boroughs use Article 4 directions that remove some permitted development rights.
What goes into 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.
- Damp and structural survey
- Waterproofing design and installation
- Finished floors, walls and ceilings
How much should I budget for a basement conversion?
What basement and cellar conversions typically cost. These are guide ranges; the written quote for your house replaces them.
| 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 Coulsdon?
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 can change the price or programme?
- A pump for the drainage system needs a battery back-up.
- Headroom of about 2.1 m or more is needed, which may mean lowering the floor.
What are the steps?
- 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.
Your questions answered
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 Coulsdon?
Yes. Coulsdon is within our coverage for basement and cellar conversions, along with nearby Purley and Banstead.
Basement and cellar conversions in nearby towns
- Basement and cellar conversions in Purley
- Basement and cellar conversions in Banstead
- Basement and cellar conversions in Sutton
- Basement and cellar conversions in Carshalton
Learn more about basement and cellar conversions, or see every project we cover in Coulsdon.