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How
do you make sure the basement stays dry?
Following
a site survey, our experienced surveyors will recommend
one of a range of water-proofing solutions which
is most suited to your home. In some cases structural
waterproofing (tanking) will provide an excellent
result and a very cost-effective solution. In the
majority of situations, however, we will achieve
excellent results with the installation of high density
polyethylene membranes, which are impervious to water
and vapour, to create a permanent cavity between
the new internal shell and the existing structure.
Damp and water are then allowed to run freely behind
the membrane to be collected in specially constructed
gutters hidden in the floor, before being safely
and silently pumped away. Because this membrane is
never wet (unlike a tanked wall), decoration can
begin immediately with no need to wait for drying.
Could the conversion
damage my foundations?
Wherever
there is the slightest risk to the structural integrity
of your property, our Surveyors will call in additional
expert assistance from Structural Engineers. If underpinning
or any other type of strengthening is required we
will bring this to your attention before any work
is carried out and quote accordingly. All our work
is fully insured.
What about
Building Regulations?
We want
your basement conversion to be useful, enjoyable
and to add value to your home, so you may rest assured
that any work carried out by Baggaley and Jenkins
(Remedials) will adhere to any relevant Building
Regulations and will be carried out strictly within
the guidelines of British Standard 8102 (1990). Escape
routes, ventilation, damp proofing, electrical wiring
and water supplies will all be properly supplied
and installed.
Is Planning
Permission necessary?
Planning
permission is not needed for a cellar conversion
in the vast majority of cases, (unless you intend
using the new space as a garage or business premises).
Planning permission may be needed if the property
is a listed building, or is in a Conservation Area,
and we would always recommend checking with your
Local Authority Building Control department for an
opinion. We will give any assistance we can to obtain
any permission required. The Party Wall Act of 1996
may also apply to you, requiring that you inform
your neighbours of the work intended. Rest assured
that our conversion projects are carried out strictly
within the guidelines of British Standard 8102 (1990).
What are the
alternatives?
To gain
the extra space you require, one alternative might
be to move house. However, aside from the disruption
to your life, the costs involved will usually far
outweigh the cost of even an extensive cellar conversion – and,
where the conversion will add value to your home,
and allow you to stay in your current property, a
house move will involve the expenditure of thousands
of pounds in solicitors’ fees, estate agents’ fees,
and stamp duty, none of which offers any return on
your investment. Otherwise, you might choose to extend
or to consider a loft conversion, but either of these
will certainly require planning permission and will
reduce either your upstairs space (to provide a staircase
to the loft) or your garden.
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