Is my basement suitable for conversion?
Luckily, Victorian houses, like those common in Sheffield, Barnsley and Rotherham, and older types of properties which have timber-suspended floors, are ideal for basement conversions. Work can often be carried out from outside, meaning it is possible that you can easily continue to live in your property while the renovations are taking place. To learn more about the suitability of your basement contact us for a free consultation.
Do I Need Planning Permission to Convert My Basement?
In most cases, you won't require planning permission to convert an existing cellar, however there are always exceptions. It's always best to check your plans with your local planning authority before any work is undertaken.
However, like with all structural work, Building Regulations will still apply.
Do I Need to Inform Neighbours?
Yes you are required to inform your neighbours in certain circumstances. If you don't live in a detached property and your basement waterproofing/conversion requires changes to a party wall, such as underpinning or the insertion of an RSJ, then in accordance to the Party Wall Act, 1996, you are required by law to keep your neighbours informed of your plans.
What is BS8102?
BS8102 is an abbreviation for the British Standard 8102:2009 which is the ‘Code of practice for protection of below ground structures against water from the ground’. It is the design guide on structural waterproofing best practice in the UK, which contains detailed considerations which need to be taken into account when designing and undertaking structural waterproofing projects.The most recent update of BS8102 was published in 2009.
The Existing Head Height in My Cellar is Not Sufficient. Can The Floor be Excavated?
In order to determine whether excavation is possible, we need to determine the depth of the existing foundations in relation to the current cellar floor level. If the head height is close to an acceptable height, and the foundations relatively deep, the cellar floor can usually be lowered enough without the need for underpinning.
However underpinning will be required where foundations are relatively shallow when head height is close to acceptable, because allowance needs to be made for the inclusion of insulation within the floor construction in order to comply with Part L of the Building Regulations (conservation of fuel and power) applying to residential basements.