About Basement Masters & Our Services
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Are Basement Masters recognised by any reputable trade organizations?
Yes. We are members of a number of trade federations e.g. BASW & FMB. We are also accredited Members of the Basement Information Centre.
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What services do Basement Masters offer?
We offer a full basement package, starting from consultation and design onto a full range of construction services 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.
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Can you guarantee your work?
Yes, all our work is covered by a 10 year guarantee (Not Insurance Back). If you require an insurance back guarantee we can arrange quotations. Your deposit can also be covered by the insurance company
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Are you insured to carry out work on my premises?
Yes, we have full range of insurance cover for all the works we undertake.
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Can I see a completed conversion?
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.
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Why should I choose Basement Masters to convert my basement?
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.
Planning & Legal Queries
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Who will arrange my plans and planning permission?
Rest assured, Basement Masters will draw up your plans and liaise with the local authority for all the planning permission and building regulations required.
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Do I need planning permission?
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.
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What is Building Regulations and will I need approval?
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.
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What is a Party Wall Notice and will I need to serve?
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. -
Do I need an existing cellar space or basement?
No, you do not need an existing cellar or basement area below your existing property. Complete basements can and have been installed without the need for this, in fact most of our basements have been installed where no previous space existed below the property.
Cost
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How much will a basement conversion cost?
No two basements are exactly the same we therefore carry out an initial survey to give you a budget cost.
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Does the cost include the architect and engineer design services?
Yes, the price we provide you with allows for a complete package. However, party wall costs will not be included in our price.
Timeframe
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How quickly can work commence?
Generally within four to six weeks of permission being obtained.
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How long will it take for a basement to be completed?
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).
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How long do the legal and planning aspects normally take?
Ideally at least 4 months should be allowed for this (please see our processes page)
The Work
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How disruptive is the work? Can we still live in the property during the work?
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. -
Who supervises the work?
Our Contracts Manager, as well as regular site visits from your local authority / approved building inspectors.
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Will you arrange for installation of plumbing and electrics?
Yes, this is all included in our total price.