To correctly convert a cellar or basement from a storage room to a bedroom or any habitable room it is often necessary to incorporate some form of fire escape to meet the Building Regs. By meeting the Regs you actually increase the property value so it is well worth the extra small cost to comply with the rules.

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Perhaps of even greater importance is that a fire escape is there to help save lives in the event of a fire and is especially vital if the room is used as a bedroom and there is a fire during the night. A lot of victorian cellars do not have an in built escape but do have a coal shute of some form.

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The above pictures show the widening and conversion of an old coal shute into a velux fire escape window that opens onto the front drive. This option is perhaps the cheapest one as it does not involve digging down and away to create a sunken doorway and also takes less man hours to install.

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From a practical point of view the minimum area you will need is approx 1.2m long by 0.8m wide to accomodate the velux above ground and to give unretsru#icted access to the escape route. Internally you will need to ensure that the height to reach the window opener is no more than 1100mm and therefore it is common to build in a small step at the base of the coal shute so a child could safely reach the velux latch in an emergency.

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Basement and cellar conversions can be a superb way of adding extra space to any home as well as increasing the property value and sale-ability of a home.

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However, it is crucial that any cellar conversion adheres to the Building Regulations concerning Basements and Underground Structures that are outlined in BS8102 and the complimentary Code of Conduct.

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Planning consent may also be needed along with a report from a Structural Engineer if you considering dropping the floor level, removing retaining walls or carrying out work connected with a Party Wall.

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Many are the mistakes made by well meaning homeowners when hiring a tradesman to convert their cellar who is not fully trained and qualified to carry out work in accordance with BS8102. To avoid all the pitfalls and extra expense you can get peace of mind from a professional job by using Multiguard Solutions as your chosen contractor.

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For professional advice and a no obligation discussion call us now on 01908 516366

Cellar conversions using tanking or cavity membrane and pump systems are becoming an increasingly popular home improvement in the current economic climate.

Due to the slowdown in the housing market converting an unused cellar space can create that extra bedroom, study, office or playroom whilst increasing the value of the home at the same time.

However, it is essential that any work being carried out is done to the correct Building Standards and the correct waterproofing system is used and installed properly.

We have such a depth of experience and expertise in this area that we are able to offer a 10 year insurance backed guarantee on our basement and cellar work to give that peace of mind that is so important to homeowners.

For a free, no obligation quote or to simply talk through things contact us on 01908 516366 or email us by using the button opposite if you prefer and we will try our best to help answer your questions and devise the best solution for you.

We carry out work throughout the majority of mainland UK and can also work off plans or digital pictures if it’s easier for our clients.

Cellar and Basement conversions and waterproofing/tanking offer the homeowner an incredibly cost effective way of creating additional useable or habitable space at a fraction of the cost of building an extension . We can transform a damp and unused existing basement or cellar into a dry space such as a study, playroom or office which would of course also increase your property value as well as providing vital extra space for you and your family.

For further information on basement and cellar conversions CLICK HERE

Alternatively if you wish to speak to someone in person call us on 01908 516366 or use the “Contact US” button. We will endeavour to do our best to offer you the best impartial advice for your needs and in line with Best Practice under BS8102

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