Basement and cellar conversions in Manchester

Covering Manchester

Our coverage around Manchester (M1, M2, M3) also includes Salford, Old Trafford and Droylsden.

Homes in the North West

Across the North West, Victorian terraces, inter-war semis and modern estates all feature, and brick or stone matching is chosen to suit each street.

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.

Damp and structural survey
Waterproofing design and installation
Lightwells and windows for daylight and escape

How much does a basement conversion cost in Manchester?

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 Manchester?

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 can change the price or programme?

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.
Drawings, approvals, written quote. We prepare the design, apply for the approvals it needs, and give you a fixed price in writing.
Build and hand over. Our teams build to the programme, building control inspects, and you get the completion paperwork at the end.

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.

Can you visit a house in Manchester to quote?

Yes. After a short call we arrange a site visit to measure up and agree what the design needs to do, then send a written price.

Basement and cellar conversions in nearby towns

Learn more about basement and cellar conversions, or see every project we cover in Manchester.