The Basement Living Group, a new National Network of Basement Conversion Contractors, will help owners to increase their property's value and improve their living and working space through basement conversions.
Rob Newman managing director of PRS, one of the four founding members of the new company, said: "There are hundreds of thousands of properties throughout the UK that have basement spaces that are not used to their full potential."
This is one of the biggest growth areas in the property market. As families or businesses expand they consider moving either up, into the attic, or down, into the basement.
"For those owners who want more and better accommodation, the cost of converting a basement is usually a fraction of that involved in moving to larger premises. The cost of conversion is usually adds directly to the property value."
The Basement Living Group has set up a national service as part of an exclusive agreement with the Wykamol Group, which is the industry leader in the development of remedial products for structural problems caused by damp.
Robert Newman says that architects, builders, engineers, businesses and homeowners will be able to access the increasingly innovative range of Wykamol products for use in basement conversions.
"With the products that Wykamol have developed, and that we have exclusive access to, basement conversions are a realistic, cost-effective choice for people who want to make the most of their properties."
In addition to the other founder members, Cook Group of Hull, Ian Gibson Associates (IGA) of Carlisle, and Kilrot of Coventry, the company expects to have 25-40 members around the country to cover all areas.
"As membership is strictly controlled, we are able to maintain the quality of service to customers," added Robert Newman, the group currently have 14 members with other applications being vetted for approval.
"Contractors who want to become affiliated with the company will have to be members of the Association of Accredited Wykamol Users, and/or Structural Waterproofing Group and the Property Care Association, and also make ongoing contributions to the development of the business."
See www.basement-living-group.co.uk (site launch October 2006)
Contractors interested should contact Mr Robert Newman on 0161 620 0545 or by email on robert@prsmanchester.co.uk