If you are in search of a price per square foot for converting a basement or digging a basement you will come across a wide range of answers. The reason for this is that there is no one price and how much it will cost will depend on many factors. Your diffing basement deeper cost could rise dramatically if you need to add dam proofing and a pumping system. Or, the cost may be viable but the neighbours will not give their consent. In this article we will look at if a basement conversion is viable as opposed to an exact price for your home!
Digging Basement Deeper Cost : Financially Viable or Not?
If you do not want to move house and you have no party wall and you need more space a basement room is a good option. If it is a financially viable option however will depend on the cost of the work relative to the value of your property. If you are not concerned about adding value to your home, then this equation can be removed altogether. But in general, if you live in a city, most especially London, you will add value to your home. If you live in a rural location, you may just add heartache as the cost of digging down spirals out of control. If you want to know how much your property is worth per metre square or per square foot, your local estate agent will be able to tell you.
Digging Basement Deeper Cost : Light
If you have to dig deep into your cellar to provide a basement, you will end up with a dark space that may also have compromised headroom. If you have a well-lit basement with windows and an access to your garden, front or back, then the conversion will be much more worthwhile. Do not think that adding a basement room will add value to your home, no matter which way you go about it. Depending on the area you live in, there may be a maximum value for your home that you cannot add to, no matter how hard you try.
Digging Basement Deeper Cost Versus a Loft Conversion
If you already have a basement, then converting it to living space will cost about the same as converting your loft. If you need to start digging down however, or you have no space under your floors at all at present, then the cost will be at least double. If you live in an older property, especially pre-war, then chances are you have a cellar. The more modern your property, the less likely there is anything at all under your floorboards.
The good news if you already have a cellar is that you need no permission to convert its usage to habitable space. If you need to start digging down however, then this will require permission. If you are unsure, you can find out more here.
A totally different alternative is to buy a ready-made plastic cellar for your garden! Not really suitable for living space, but excellent as a store room or wine cellar!