Question 1

What can you convert a basement into?

Accepted Answer

Converting a basement into living space is a great opportunity to add an entirely new room to your home. Some of the most popular basement cellar conversion projects we see include:

-   [Home office](https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/planning-guides/the-perfect-home-office/)
-   [Home gym](https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/ideas/home-gym-ideas/)
-   [Swimming pool](https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/ideas/swimming-pool-design-ideas/)
-   [Home cinema](https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/home-cinema-installers-near-me/)
-   [Annexe ](https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/cost-guides/cost-building-granny-annexe/)for older relatives or to give teenagers their own space
-   [Games room](https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/ideas/gaming-room-ideas/)
-   Living room
-  [ Wine cellar](https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/cost-guides/spiral-wine-cellar-cost/)
-   Workshop

Question 2

What are the benefits of cellar conversions?

Accepted Answer

If you've got the budget to take on the job, a cellar conversion is a no-brainer. Benefits include:

- **Extra living space** – Perfect for a growing family or creating a quiet retreat
- **Independent living area** – Ideal for an older relative or guest annexe
- **No need to move** – Gain valuable space without the cost or stress of moving
- **No loss of garden space** – Unlike extensions, basements make use of existing footprint
- **Added property value** – A well-finished cellar can boost your home’s market appeal

Question 3

What does a basement conversion involve?

Accepted Answer

A cellar basement conversion is one of the biggest building projects homeowners can take on. So it's important to understand what's involved.

Here's the main steps that a basement cellar conversion company will take to transform your space:

-   Excavate your basement or [lower the basement floor level ](https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/cost-guides/lowering-basement-floor-cost/)to gain extra head height (if necessary)

-   Install any additional support if needed

-   Add a [waterproof membrane to the space](https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/cost-guides/basement-waterproofing-costs/)

-   Fit utilities

-   Install flooring and plaster the walls

-   Add heating and lighting

-   Decorate and furnish the space

You can find more information and advice in our [how to convert a cellar](https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/how-to/convert-cellar/) and [cost of finishing a basement](https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/cost-guides/cost-finish-basement/) guides.

Question 4

How do you damp-proof a cellar conversion?

Accepted Answer

To [damp-proof](https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/cost-guides/damp-proofing-cost/) a cellar, a tanking system or cavity drain membrane is usually installed to keep moisture out and protect your walls and floors from damp.

Question 5

What affects the cost of basement and cellar conversions?

Accepted Answer

The amount you pay for your cellar conversion will vary depending on a number of factors, including:

-   **Size of basement** - The larger your basement is, the more you’ll pay for it to be converted

-   **Conversion or excavation** - It’s more expensive to build a new cellar than convert an existing cellar

-   **Structural support** - If your home needs additional structural support in order to secure your basement, this will be an extra cost

-   **Cellar purpose** - Depending on how you plan to use your new basement, the conversion price may vary. For example, a wine cellar requires much less work than a home gym

-   **Utilities** - If you plan to add power, gas, plumbing and air conditioning to your basement, this will increase the conversion price

Question 6

What’s the most expensive part of building a basement?

Accepted Answer

Typically, **waterproofing and structural support** are the biggest costs, especially if the existing foundations need reinforcement.

Question 7

How long does a cellar conversion take?

Accepted Answer

Most conversions take **8–16 weeks**, depending on size, depth, and whether structural work or excavation is required.

That said, you're best off speaking to a basement conversion company directly to get a clearer idea on timescales for your home.

**Search your postcode in our [free directory](https://www.checkatrade.com/) or [request a quote](https://www.checkatrade.com/post-a-job) to find basement conversion specialists covering [location].**

Question 8

How to find experienced companies for basement and cellar conversions in [location]?

Accepted Answer

To help you find basement and cellar conversion companies in [location], consider these tips:

-   Check online reviews to determine their reputation and quality of work
-   Ask about their experience 
-   Verify their public liability insurance, so you know they’re covered against any potential accidents or damages 
-   [Get multiple quotes](https://www.checkatrade.com/post-a-job) from at least three tradespeople so you can compare prices and services
-   Use Checkatrade and **hire one of our approved members that have undergone up to 12 checks** so that you can hire with confidence

Basement / Cellar Conversions in Croydon (128)

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