Basement / Cellar Conversions in Ferndown (61)

Converting a basement into living space is a great opportunity to add an entirely new room to your home. What’s more, a basement could cover the entire area of your property, making a large, open space or multiple rooms. So, what can you convert a basement into? Below are a few great options:

• Home office

• Home gym

• Swimming pool

• Home cinema

• Annexe for older relatives or to give teenagers their own space

• Games room

• Living room

• Wine cellar

• Workshop

What are the advantages of cellar conversions?

If you’re considering a cellar conversion, you may be happy to hear that there are a range of benefits that come with this alteration. These include:

• Space for family members - If you have an older relative who needs living support, converting a basement into an annexe is a great option.

• Extra living space - If your family is growing, having extra living space could be a huge benefit. Your home will feel more peaceful and less cluttered by adding this additional living space.

• No need to move home - If you’re at the point where you’ve simply run out of room, you may be considering buying a bigger home. This can be a costly and stressful process so if you’re happy with the area you live in, a cellar conversion can give you that much needed extra space.

• They don't take up any more space - Adding an extension to your home will often reduce the size of your garden. The great thing about basement conversions is that they don't increase the space your property covers.

• Increased property value - Adding a cellar conversion is a great way of increasing the value of your home. If you plan to move in the future, your property value will be higher.

How long does a basement conversion take?

The time needed to convert your basement will vary depending on the current condition of your cellar. If you need to excavate an entirely new basement this will take longer than converting an existing cellar. Generally, this project is not quick and it can take months to complete your basement conversion.

Yes and no. If you already have a basement you often won't need planning permission for the conversion. However, if you need to add an entirely new one, it’s likely you’ll need permission before getting started.

How to tell if a basement conversion is to regulations

The best way to check this is to hire a professional to assess your basement conversion.

The amount you pay for your cellar conversion will vary depending on a number of factors. If you’re wondering how much a basement conversion costs, consider the following variables:

• Size of basement - The larger your basement is, the more you’ll pay for it to be converted.

• Conversion or excavation - It’s more expensive to build a new cellar than convert an existing cellar.

• Structural support - If your home needs additional structural support in order to secure your basement, this will be an extra cost.

• Cellar purpose - Depending on how you plan to use your new basement, the conversion price may vary. For example, a wine cellar requires much less work than a home gym or swimming pool.

• Utilities - If you plan to add power, gas, plumbing and air conditioning to your basement, this will increase the conversion price.

• Materials used - Choosing higher quality materials will make your basement look incredible and last for years to come but they’re more expensive than basic materials.

Basement conversion cost

Ok, let's look at the average cost of a cellar conversion. Bear in mind that the above factors will affect how much you pay. However as a rough guide, the average cellar conversion cost is £1,400 per square metre. If you need an entirely new basement to be excavated, the average cost of a cellar conversion will be closer to £2,280 per square metre.

For more prices, tips and information, visit our cellar conversion cost guide.

How much does it cost to finish a basement?

Once the essential installation work has been completed, you can move onto finishing your basement. The amount you need to budget for this stage will vary depending on the scope of your plans. Having said that, the average cost of finishing a basement is £1,100 per square metre. You can find more information in our guide on the cost to finish a basement.

If you’re planning a basement conversion, it can be tempting to do the work yourself. However, this project is neither quick nor easy. Unless you have sufficient experience in cellar conversions, we’d recommend leaving the work to a professional.

If you’re curious about the process of a basement conversion, we’ve summarised the steps below:

• If necessary excavate your basement

• Install any additional support if needed

• Add a waterproof membrane to the space

• Fit utilities

• Install flooring and plaster the walls

• Add heating and lighting

• Decorate and furnish the space

You can find more information and advice in our guide on how to convert a cellar.

Basement waterproofing

A key step in your cellar conversion project is waterproofing the space. Our basement waterproofing cost guide is bursting with helpful information including prices and factors to consider. The average price of waterproofing a basement is £120 per metre squared.

Lowering a basement floor

Converting a small area into a living space requires many changes. One of these is to increase the headroom of your cellar. You can do this by lowering your basement floor. If you’d like to learn more, check out our lowering a basement floor guide.

Want to speak to a basement conversion company in Ferndown?

No problem, we can help you to find cellar conversion contractors in no time at all. Our members pass thorough checks to ensure they have the right experience and qualifications to surpass your expectations. They’re even recommended by your neighbours.

There are two ways we can help you find cellar conversion experts in Ferndown. Firstly, our free search feature is a great way of locating local basement conversion builders. Just enter your postcode and we’ll show you a range of professionals in your area.

Alternatively, our request a quote feature is perfect for busy homeowners. Fill in our handy online form with the details of your job. We’ll then forward this to three cellar conversion companies who’ll contact you with personalised quotes. It really is that easy.