Many of our customers are self-builders with varying knowledge and experience of the construction process.
 
We are happy to offer help and advice to see whether a basement is viable and affordable for your project.
 
We have developed a clear and risk free method of building basements in most ground conditions. The final price you pay for your basement will depend on how involved you get in the construction process.

Information we need from you

The more information you can give us, the more accurate your budget estimate will be.
 
Ideally we need the following information to give an accurate quote:-

• Scale drawing or sketch of basement with full dimensions 
• Ground floor plan 
• Information on method of superstructure construction (traditional, timber frame etc.) 
• Site plan showing access, trees, pylons, overhead cables. 
• Information on road access to the site (usually we deliver our basements on 40 foot articulated lorries) 
• Soil investigation report 
• Line loads on basement walls and floors 
• Any other relevant information (Have you got planning permission, timescale of build, Party wall issues) 

Items you need to consider

• How do I get light into the basement? Is it fully or partially underground? Is the site flat or sloping?
    
• How do I get ventilation into the basement? Windows, lightwells or mechanical ventilation.
    
• What do I want to use the basement for? Cinema rooms, swimming pools, gymnasium, home office, utilty space, the options are endless.
    
• How big do I want my basement? It is usually more economic to include a basement under the whole ground floor footprint.
    
• Do I need an external staircase? If the basement is designated as habitable space it must have a secondary means of escape. 

Lightwells

Lightwells are the best means of getting light and ventilation into a basement.
 
These can be large concrete lightwells or sunken patios
Or preformed GRP lightwells.
For more information on these click the word Lightwells.