Covering Newtownabbey
We work in Newtownabbey (BT36, BT37) and the places around it, including Holywood, Belfast and Carrickfergus.
Homes in County Antrim
Across Northern Ireland you find city terraces, suburban semis and rural bungalows and farmhouses, so the right approach depends on the plot and the planning history.
What does a basement conversion involve?
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.
- Planning and building control applications to the council
- Waterproofing design and installation
- Lightwells and windows for daylight and escape
How much does a basement conversion cost in Newtownabbey?
Typical ranges for basement and cellar conversions. Ground conditions, access and specification move the final figure, which we fix in writing before work starts.
| 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 Newtownabbey?
Northern Ireland projects need planning clearance and building control approval from the local council. We prepare the applications and agree any work near neighbouring property directly with the neighbours.
In Northern Ireland new basements and external changes normally need planning permission; building control approval is needed.
What can change the price or programme?
- Groundwater levels drive the waterproofing design and cost.
- Headroom of about 2.1 m or more is needed, which may mean lowering the floor.
From first call to completion
- Tell us about the project. Call, use the guide price tool or send the form with a few photos and a postcode.
- Survey at your house. We look at the existing structure, services and access, and agree what the design needs to achieve.
- Design and fixed price. You get drawings and a written price for the agreed specification before anything is ordered.
- We build it. Work follows an agreed programme, with inspections at each stage and a final sign-off.
Basement and cellar conversions: common questions
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 long does it take?
About 6 to 12 weeks for a cellar conversion and 16 to 30 weeks for a new basement.
Can you visit a house in Newtownabbey 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.
Also covering
- Basement and cellar conversions in Holywood
- Basement and cellar conversions in Belfast
- Basement and cellar conversions in Carrickfergus
- Basement and cellar conversions in Bangor
Learn more about basement and cellar conversions, or see every project we cover in Newtownabbey.