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 New Malden?
In New Malden, a basement conversion typically costs £2,450–£4,150 per m² for converting an existing cellar, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 30 m² project that is roughly £73,500–£124,500. We start from a UK-wide guide and adjust it for London, where labour and materials are typically about 30% above average. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (21 m²) | £51,500–£87,000 |
| Typical project (30 m²) | £73,500–£124,500 |
| Larger project (42 m²) | £103,000–£174,500 |
| Rate per m² | £2,450–£4,150 |
The biggest cost drivers are:
- Lightwells
- Existing cellar or new excavation
- Floor lowering and underpinning
- Party wall surveyor fees
Your exact price depends on the survey and drawings. The guide price tool gives a quick range in the meantime.
Do you need planning permission for a basement conversion in New Malden?
Whether you need planning permission depends on your house and its location 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.
Building regulations approval comes from the council’s building control service or a registered building control approver. The work is inspected at key stages, such as foundations, drainage and insulation, and a completion certificate is issued at the end.
Our first visit includes a check of your planning history, so you know the route before paying for drawings.
What we handle
Handled as part of most basement conversions:
- Structural and ground survey
- Lightwells and windows
- Insulation, ventilation and drainage pumps
- Party wall notices
- Waterproofing design (tanking or cavity drain membrane)
- Electrics, heating and plastering
How long does it take?
Allow 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 New Malden
Space is at a premium in London, so homeowners often build out into the side return or up into the roof rather than move.
Our New Malden coverage includes postcode districts KT3, and we also work in nearby places such as Surbiton, Morden and Wimbledon.
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
Design and fixed quote
Drawings, structural calculations and an itemised, fixed price for the agreed specification.
- 03
Approvals
Planning or permitted development confirmation, building regulations and any party wall matters.
- 04
Build and handover
Work follows the agreed programme, with inspections along the way and a completion certificate at the end.
Questions about basement conversions in New Malden
Do I need party wall agreements?
In England and Wales, excavating near a neighbour’s foundations usually triggers the Party Wall etc. Act 1996.
Can a basement be a bedroom?
Yes, with a suitable escape route such as a lightwell window or protected stair.
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 New Malden?
In New Malden, a basement conversion typically costs £2,450–£4,150 per m² for converting an existing cellar, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 30 m² project comes to roughly £73,500–£124,500. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Do you build basement conversions in New Malden?
Yes. We build basement conversions across New Malden, including postcodes KT3. Every project starts with a free home visit.