FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

A. All types of properties are suitable for cellar conversions. Whether your existing basement is large or small – or even if it has a stream running through it! Call or email us with some rough measurements and we will be able to guide you to the best solution.

A. 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, or 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.

A. 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.

A. 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 & Jenkins (Remedials) Ltd 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.

A. Planning permission is not needed for a cellar conversion in the vast majority of cases, unless you intend to use 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).

A. 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.

A. We can eradicate problems caused by wet rot, dry rot, woodworm, mould and condensation. We have expertise in all work to do with damp proofing and offer a multi-trade service that includes all building work – plumbing, electrical and decorating.

A. Yes, we are highly experienced and fully trained to carry out all remedial repairs to buildings. We are members of the PCA (Property Care Association), which means we are qualified to carry out damp proofing and treatments for wet rot, dry rot, condensation and woodworm. We are also an EEM (Efficiency East Midlands Ltd) nominated contractor and offer GPI (Guaranteed Protection Insurance) to help give you peace of mind.

A. The earlier you catch the problem, the less expensive it will be for you as less damage will be done to your building. You should contact specialists immediately. A thorough survey will be taken and you will be informed of the damage caused by dampness, mould and fungi and all possible options to rectify it. We’ll give you honest advice and competitive quotes on the work that would be required to ensure that your property is safe and sound.