What is a basement conversion?

A basement conversion turns an existing cellar into living space, or excavates a new basement under the house or garden. Waterproofing, structural support and daylight are the main design challenges.
How much does a basement conversion cost in Hazel Grove?
In Hazel Grove, a basement conversion typically costs £1,800–£3,000 per m² for converting an existing cellar, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 30 m² project that is roughly £54,000–£90,000. That range is adjusted for the North West, where domestic building work typically costs around 6% below the national average. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (21 m²) | £38,000–£63,000 |
| Typical project (30 m²) | £54,000–£90,000 |
| Larger project (42 m²) | £75,500–£126,000 |
| Rate per m² | £1,800–£3,000 |
What moves the price most:
- Existing cellar or new excavation
- Lightwells
- Ground water and access
- Party wall surveyor fees
Use the guide price tool to see how size and specification change the figure, then ask for a written, itemised quote.
Do you need planning permission for a basement conversion in Hazel Grove?
The approval route for Hazel Grove is set by planning law in England. In England converting an existing cellar with no external change usually does not need planning permission. New excavation, lightwells and changes to the front often do, and some councils, particularly in London, have specific basement policies.
Where work involves a shared wall, building on the boundary, or digging foundations within 3 metres of a neighbour’s building and deeper than its foundations (or within 6 metres for deeper work), the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 applies and notices must be served before work starts.
At the survey we check your house’s planning history and any restrictions, and tell you which route applies.
What we handle
The work we manage on a basement conversion:
- Building control sign-off
- Structural and ground survey
- Waterproofing design (tanking or cavity drain membrane)
- Lightwells and windows
- Insulation, ventilation and drainage pumps
- Party wall notices
How long does it take?
Expect 8 to 16 weeks for a cellar conversion; longer for new excavation. Allow time beforehand for drawings and approvals, usually 3 to 5 months.
Building in Hazel Grove
The North West has many brick terraces and inter-war semis, where kitchen extensions and dormer loft conversions add space without moving.
We work across Hazel Grove and neighbouring areas such as Stockport, Cheadle Hulme and Hyde. Postcodes we cover in Hazel Grove include SK7.
How it works
- 01
Free visit
We look at the property, talk through what you want and measure up. There is no charge and no obligation.
- 02
Drawings and written quote
We prepare the design and give you a written, itemised quote with inclusions and exclusions.
- 03
Approvals
Planning or permitted development confirmation, building regulations and any party wall matters.
- 04
Build and sign-off
We run the build to a written programme and hand over the completion certificate.
Questions about basement conversions in Hazel Grove
Who approves a basement conversion in Hazel Grove?
Planning matters in Hazel Grove go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. We prepare and submit the applications for you.
Do I need party wall agreements?
In England and Wales, excavating near a neighbour’s foundations usually triggers the Party Wall etc. Act 1996.
How long does it take?
A cellar conversion takes around 8 to 16 weeks; new basements take longer.
How much does a basement conversion cost in Hazel Grove?
In Hazel Grove, a basement conversion typically costs £1,800–£3,000 per m² for converting an existing cellar, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 30 m² project comes to roughly £54,000–£90,000. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Is new excavation worth it?
It can be in high-value areas, but costs are high. We give a feasibility view before design starts.
