Waterproofing

Basement Waterproofing

Whether you're converting a basement into usable space or addressing an existing water problem, the waterproofing system needs to match the actual pressure the structure faces.

DAMPCORE technician attending a property for a basement waterproofing assessment

Matching the system to the pressure

Basement waterproofing generally follows BS 8102 guidance, which sets out different types of protection (barrier/tanking, cavity drainage, or external protection) depending on the ground conditions, water table and intended use of the space. Specifying this correctly from the outset avoids expensive remedial work later, particularly where a basement is being converted into a habitable room.

Common signs to look out for

Damp or standing water in an existing basement

Plans to convert a basement into habitable or storage space

Efflorescence or staining on basement walls

A musty smell or visible mould below ground level

Cracks in basement walls or floor allowing water ingress

A previous waterproofing system that's failed

Assessment being carried out as part of a basement waterproofing specification

How We Help

Our basement waterproofing process

We assess before we specify, since the wrong system for the ground conditions involved is a costly mistake to put right.

  • Assessment of ground conditions, water table risk and structural condition
  • Specification matched to BS 8102 guidance for the intended use of the space
  • Installation of the appropriate system: cavity drainage, tanking, or external protection
  • Sign-off and guidance on ongoing maintenance, such as sump and pump servicing where fitted

What our customers say

“We used DAMPCORE for a problem in the cellar. It wasn't a small job but everything was explained beforehand and there were no surprises halfway through. The team grafted and kept the place remarkably tidy considering the work involved.”

Mark · Moortown, Leeds

“Excellent communication from my first phone call onwards. I received sensible advice, a clear explanation of the moisture readings and a proper recommendation rather than being pressured into making a decision there and then.”

Rebecca · Harrogate

Book a Survey

Get a clear answer, not a guess.

Book a DAMPCORE damp survey and find out exactly what's happening in your property.

Frequently asked questions

What's the difference between tanking and cavity drainage?
Tanking applies a waterproof barrier directly to the structure, while cavity drainage systems manage water that gets through the structure and channel it away, typically via a sump and pump. Which is appropriate depends on ground conditions and intended use.
Do I need waterproofing for a basement conversion?
Almost always, yes: building control generally expects a specified waterproofing system for a habitable basement conversion, assessed against BS 8102.

Related services

Cellar Waterproofing

Learn more

Tanking Systems

Learn more

Damp Basements

Learn more

Covering Leeds and the wider Yorkshire region

Leeds is our principal service area, with coverage across the wider Yorkshire region.

Concerned about this in your property?

Start with a professional assessment and understand exactly what you're dealing with.

Call Book a Survey