Where does your mind go when you consider increasing a property’s space? Probably to some form of luxurious extension or annexe, or perhaps the humble conservatory? The lesser considered option, however, is the basement.

Inner-city homes frequently opt to go down the basement route. This is no surprise when, in places like London, space comes at a premium. In many situations, building downwards is the only economically viable option.

Is a Basement The Right Choice?
We live in a material world and the majority of the masses are constantly searching for ways to free up a bit of space. But why free up space, when you can create new space? A basement could be ideal, whether you need space for a games room, a home bar or just more storage.

The extra space is seen by many as an added bonus, however, as they view their new basement as an investment. Incorporating a basement into your home will add a lot of value to the property, something you certainly won’t regret a little further down the line, should you plan on selling.

Regardless of the reason, it doesn’t take a great deal of imagination to understand the attraction of developing a spacious, habitable are, directly beneath your home.

Are Planning Permissions a Requirement?
Basement underpinning typically requires approval under building regulations; a process with several stages. One of these stages involves testing and assessing the ground conditions. This is carried out through the digging of a trial pit.