Covering Newtownards
Our coverage around Newtownards (BT22, BT23) also includes Comber (4 miles to the south-west) and Bangor.
Homes in County Down
Northern Ireland has a high proportion of detached houses and bungalows outside the cities, which often suit side extensions, rear extensions and upward extensions.
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.
- Damp and structural survey
- Underpinning or lowering the floor where needed
- Lightwells and windows for daylight and escape
What is the guide price for a basement conversion in Newtownards?
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 Newtownards?
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 affect a basement conversion?
- 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.
- 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.
- Build and hand over. Our teams build to the programme, building control inspects, and you get the completion paperwork at the end.
Basement and cellar conversions: common questions
How much does a basement conversion cost?
Converting an existing cellar costs about £1,900 to £3,000 per square metre including VAT. A new excavated basement is around £4,200 to £6,600 per square metre.
Does a cellar conversion need planning permission?
Usually not if nothing changes outside. New basements and lightwells often do.
How do I get a price for basement and cellar conversions in Newtownards?
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 Comber
- Basement and cellar conversions in Bangor
- Basement and cellar conversions in Holywood
- Basement and cellar conversions in Belfast
Learn more about basement and cellar conversions, or see every project we cover in Newtownards.

