People who want more space in their houses but do not want to move to another property may find a basement conversion as a solution to their problems. Buying a new property means spending money to purchase and moving out also has quite huge costs associated with it. Some people feel comfortable in the area they live in and do not want leave it. So, there are enough reasons to support a basement conversion. A basement conversion adds value to your existing property and you can fetch more money when you decide to sell this property in the future.
It seems that basement conversion is more convenient in the older style properties because they have suspended timber floors. Having a basement is a great asset to your house. You can convert this dark, damp and ignored place into a cosy and comfortable livable area for your entire family. You can convert a basement to many things like extra bedrooms, guestrooms, study, a playroom for kids or entertainment area for your family and more.
For basement conversion, you need to decide on your requirements, planning, design of the basement and conversion. For this to achieve, you will have to take help of a reliable and competent contractor. He can tell all the aspects of a basement conversion. As for design, you should consult an architect to finalize a design according to your present and future needs.
Before you embark on your basement conversion project, you should consider few factors.
Usage of the Space Created
In the very beginning, you need to be sure about the usage of the basement conversion. Do you want to convert it into a play room, an office, a home gym or entertainment area, or maybe even a separate apartment? Take into consideration the needs of your family.
Costs of Basement Conversion
While going for basement conversion, ask for quotes from few reliable contractors. For this, you can make list of the tasks you want to be achieved during a basement conversion and give this list to various contractors. And probably you'll receive different prices for the same job. You can hire the one who gives the best quote for all your needs. But do remember to be objective as it is not necessary that cheapest price would be the best one.
Planning Permission
If you are going to change your basement into an office or a garage, you would need to gain permission from the local authorities. Also if your property is a listed, building or lying in a Conservation area, you'll need to obtain permission as well.
Complying Building Regulations
While converting a basement, you have to comply with a number of building regulations, laid for safety and convenience. These building regulations are regarding damp proofing, ventilation, escape routes, electrical wiring and plumbing.
Discuss your plans with your neighbours:
It is important to discuss with your neighbours, what you intend to do. Otherwise they can stop your works and you don't want it to happen, do you?
It seems that basement conversion is more convenient in the older style properties because they have suspended timber floors. Having a basement is a great asset to your house. You can convert this dark, damp and ignored place into a cosy and comfortable livable area for your entire family. You can convert a basement to many things like extra bedrooms, guestrooms, study, a playroom for kids or entertainment area for your family and more.
For basement conversion, you need to decide on your requirements, planning, design of the basement and conversion. For this to achieve, you will have to take help of a reliable and competent contractor. He can tell all the aspects of a basement conversion. As for design, you should consult an architect to finalize a design according to your present and future needs.
Before you embark on your basement conversion project, you should consider few factors.
Usage of the Space Created
In the very beginning, you need to be sure about the usage of the basement conversion. Do you want to convert it into a play room, an office, a home gym or entertainment area, or maybe even a separate apartment? Take into consideration the needs of your family.
Costs of Basement Conversion
While going for basement conversion, ask for quotes from few reliable contractors. For this, you can make list of the tasks you want to be achieved during a basement conversion and give this list to various contractors. And probably you'll receive different prices for the same job. You can hire the one who gives the best quote for all your needs. But do remember to be objective as it is not necessary that cheapest price would be the best one.
Planning Permission
If you are going to change your basement into an office or a garage, you would need to gain permission from the local authorities. Also if your property is a listed, building or lying in a Conservation area, you'll need to obtain permission as well.
Complying Building Regulations
While converting a basement, you have to comply with a number of building regulations, laid for safety and convenience. These building regulations are regarding damp proofing, ventilation, escape routes, electrical wiring and plumbing.
Discuss your plans with your neighbours:
It is important to discuss with your neighbours, what you intend to do. Otherwise they can stop your works and you don't want it to happen, do you?
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