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 Tyldesley?
In Tyldesley, 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. The guide for Tyldesley reflects typical costs in the North West, roughly 6% below the UK-wide figure. 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 |
The main things that change the cost:
- Ground water and access
- Existing cellar or new excavation
- Floor lowering and underpinning
- Party wall surveyor fees
A guide range is only a starting point: the guide price tool gives an instant figure for your size, and a free survey turns it into a fixed quote.
Do you need planning permission for a basement conversion in Tyldesley?
Approvals for a basement conversion in Tyldesley follow the rules for 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.
We check this for your address before design work starts, so there are no surprises later.
What we handle
Handled as part of most basement conversions:
- Structural and ground survey
- Building control sign-off
- Electrics, heating and plastering
- Party wall notices
- Underpinning or new structure where needed
- Lightwells and windows
How long does it take?
Build time is typically 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 Tyldesley
Terraced streets across the North West often suit rear dormers and single-storey kitchen extensions.
Tyldesley sits in Greater Manchester, about 10 miles west of Manchester. We cover the whole of Tyldesley, including postcodes M29.
How it works
- 01
Survey and brief
We visit, discuss your ideas and budget, and survey the property or site at no cost.
- 02
Design and fixed quote
Drawings, structural calculations and an itemised, fixed price for the agreed specification.
- 03
Approvals in place
We handle planning, building control and neighbour notices before work starts.
- 04
Construction and completion
We build, put right any snags and hand over the building control certificate.
Questions about basement conversions in Tyldesley
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 Tyldesley?
In Tyldesley, 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.
Does a basement conversion need planning permission?
Converting an existing cellar without changing the outside usually does not. New excavation, lightwells and changes visible from outside usually do.
Do you build basement conversions in Tyldesley?
Yes. We build basement conversions across Tyldesley, including postcodes M29. Every project starts with a free home visit.
Can a basement be a bedroom?
Yes, with a suitable escape route such as a lightwell window or protected stair.
