Basement conversion

The planning regulations around basement builds and conversions are currently under review.

Converting an existing basement is unlikely to require planning permission but in some cases it may do. Excavating to create a new basement on the other hand will probably require permission. If your house is a listed building, it is likely you will need consent for internal or external work. In all cases you should contact your local planning authority before you begin. Use our LPA finder to get in touch with your LPA.¹

Building regulations apply to basement builds and conversions. These cover aspects such as fire escape routes, ventilation and damp proofing. Further details of these regulations can be found in our common projects section.²

What about the neighbours?

If your house is terraced or semi-detached, you could be planning to build near party walls (the walls between your house and your neighbours’). If this is the case you will need to abide by The Party Wall act 1996³. 

Find out more about the act in our common projects section.⁴

For in-depth guidance on basement building regulations, take a look at The Basement Information Centre’s website⁵.

1. https://www.planningportal.co.uk/find-your-local-planning-authority
2. https://www.planningportal.co.uk/permission/common-projects/basements/building-regulations
3. https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1996/40/contents
4. https://www.planningportal.co.uk/permission/responsibilities/other-permissions-you-may-require/party-walls
5. https://www.basements.org.uk/TBIC/Building-Legislation/Building-Regulations.aspx