FAQs

Yes, with over 30 years experience we are probably the most experienced in London and the surrounding areas.

Yes. We are members of a number of trade federations e.g. BASW & FMB. We are also accredited Members of the Basement Information Centre.

We offer a full basement package, starting from consultation and design onto a full range of construction service that will leave you with a total turn-key finish. Should you require only a part of our services e.g. build or design only, we would be happy to discuss your requirements.

Yes, we have full range of insurance cover for all the works we undertake.

Of course! It will be our pleasure to show you a recent or on-going conversion at the home of one of our many satisfied customers.

Basement conversion is an expensive and major construction project. It is essential, for safety and financial reasons, that it is built correctly. Basement Masters have the experience and capability of building you a basement conversion you can rely on, whilst showing care, respect and concern during what is to be a reasonably long project.

Rest assured, Basement Masters will draw up your plans and liaise with the local authority for all the planning permission and building regulations required.

In most instances where a habitable living area is to be created, planning permission should be sort. However, in some circumstances, where a cellar already exists and the work will not alter the façade of the property, planning permission may not be required. If in doubt, we will seek confirmation from the planners on your behalf.

Yes, almost certainly, unless your basement work is only of a cosmetic nature. Building Regulations are provided under powers provided in the Building Act 1984, they contain dealing with definitions, procedures, what is expected in terms of the technical performance of building work and how the building should comply in the interests of the health and safety of the building users.

Most likely, it is possible to be living in a detached property up to six metres away from the adjacent property and still require to serve notice. We will be able to give you some guidance on this, we can also introduce you to Party Wall Surveyors if needed.

The Party Wall Act provides the framework for the resolution of any neighbour related construction issues. It cannot be used by your neighbour as a means to prevent you installing a basement.

No two basements are exactly the same we therefore carry out an initial survey to give you a budget cost.

Yes, the price we provide you with allows for a complete package. However, party wall costs will not be included in our price.

Generally within four to six weeks of permission being obtained.

This will vary depending on type and size of basement but the average basement to a builders finish i.e. complete less decorated would be 7-9 months (please see our processes page).

Ideally at least 4 months should be allowed for this (please see our processes page)

Yes, you can, clients nearly always do.

A full retro basement installation is a major construction project on your home but with our past experience, knowledge, and co-operative approach, disruption is kept to the absolute minimum.

The site access and entry area is hoarded off from the rest of your home. We will have separate temporary rest room facilities. Noise and dust pollution will be kept to the absolute minimum, your Health & Safety is of paramount concern.

Our Contracts Manager, as well as regular site visits from your local authority / approved building inspectors.

Yes, this is all included in our total price.