converting / damproofing cellar

tiggy748_2

Im concidering buying an end terrace with a cellar and converting it to a spare bedroom so i can rent out the spare room.
The whole house needs extensive renovation work, and Im not sure how much value the converted cellar would add, so i dont want to go mad. Im only intending to be in the house for about 2 years.

The cellar is quite damp - no running water. I can see glimpses through to the street outside so its currently well ventilated

Head height wise i suppose its about 5'10" def not 2m. But as im a only a squirt this doesnt bother me, so unless i have to im not keen on digging down unless its something i can do and no underpinning costs etc.

Building reg wise - is there any?

Also what about conversion costs? if it wont add value Is there a way to do it DIY that would suffice enough to be suitable?

im confused about ventilation - some threads say block everything, others say the cellar needs to breath!!

Should i insulate between the floor joists in the ceiling? I dont want to as i like the exposed beams and dont want to visualy bring the celing height down, but im thinking of the cold.

Any other thoughts, tips etc would be greatfully received!

Thank you!

Doozergirl

There are definitely building regs.

https://www.planningportal.co.uk/info/200130/common_projects/5/basements/2

There's a link there for further advice. Not a cheap or easy project to carry out and not one that generally adds much value to a house unless land value is very high, like in London.

Doozergirl

Basements are not our thing, but aside from waterproofing, a main primary concern is fire protection. You either need to provide an escape window or door from the basement, or a protected stairwell to your main door (like with a loft conversion).