The cost of basement construction depends on several factors, including the size of the basement, the ground conditions, the intended use of the space, and the waterproofing system required. Every project is unique, so we recommend arranging a professional survey, where one of our experienced surveyors can assess your property and provide a detailed, no-obligation quotation tailored to your requirements.
Tanking Contractors
Experienced Basement and Cellar Waterproofing Contractors
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Tanking Contractors London
Looking for an experienced tanking contractor to protect your basement, cellar or below-ground structure?
Universal Basement Waterproofing provides professional basement tanking and structural waterproofing services throughout London and the South East.
Our surveyors assess the property, investigate the source of any damp or water ingress and design a waterproofing system suited to the construction, level of risk and intended use of the space.
We install Type A barrier protection, Type C cavity drain membrane systems and combined waterproofing solutions using established products from Delta, KÖSTER and Sika.
Qualifying commercial and domestic installations are supported by our free 10-year installation and product warranty.
Request a Tanking Survey
or call our waterproofing team on
020 3795 4900.
Professional Tanking Contractors in London
Effective basement waterproofing requires more than applying a waterproof coating to a damp wall. The source of the water must be investigated, the structure must be assessed and the complete waterproofing system must be designed around the property.
As specialist tanking contractors, we consider the construction of the walls and floor, the condition of the substrate, groundwater pressure, drainage, service penetrations, wall-to-floor junctions and the intended use of the finished space.
Our work covers existing cellars, residential basements, new basement construction, commercial properties, retaining structures, plant rooms, lift pits, vaults and other below-ground areas.
From the initial survey through to installation, documentation and refurbishment, we provide one point of responsibility for the waterproofing project.
Basement and Cellar Tanking Services
Basement Tanking
We design and install waterproofing systems for existing and newly constructed basements. The recommended system will depend on the structure, the water ingress risk and how the basement will be used.
Cellar Tanking
Our cellar tanking service can help protect damp or water-affected cellars and prepare them for storage, utility use or conversion into a finished room.
Cementitious Tanking
Cementitious tanking uses specialist cement-based coatings to create a bonded waterproof barrier across prepared walls and floors. This is classified as Type A barrier protection under BS 8102.
Cavity Drain Membrane Installation
A Type C cavity drain membrane controls water entering through the structure and directs it towards a suitable drainage point or sump and pump system. This approach is commonly used when waterproofing existing basements and cellars.
Structural Waterproofing
We provide waterproofing designs for new and existing below-ground structures, including the treatment of walls, floors, joints, cracks and service penetrations.
Waterproofing Repairs
Our contractors investigate failed tanking, damaged cavity drain membranes, drainage problems and other defects affecting an existing waterproofing installation.
Basement Refurbishment
Once the waterproofing has been installed, Universal Basement Waterproofing can provide the specialist trades and services required to complete the refurbishment of the space.
Do You Need a Tanking Contractor?
You should consider arranging a professional waterproofing survey if your basement or cellar has damp walls, standing water, mould, peeling paint, damaged plaster, white salt deposits or a persistent musty smell.
Water entering through cracks, floors, wall-to-floor junctions or service penetrations can also indicate that the property needs a properly designed waterproofing system.
Some properties require tanking before a basement or cellar can be converted into a usable room. Others need remedial work because an existing waterproofing system has failed or is no longer suitable for the level of water pressure.
Not every damp problem requires the same solution. Our surveyors identify the likely cause before recommending tanking, cavity drainage or a combined waterproofing design.
Waterproofing Systems Installed by Our Contractors
The term “tanking” is often used to describe several different forms of basement waterproofing. The correct system must be selected according to the property rather than applying the same method to every project.
Type A Barrier Protection
Type A waterproofing uses a barrier applied to the structure to resist water ingress. Cementitious coatings, waterproof renders and other bonded systems may be installed directly onto suitably prepared masonry or concrete.
Correct substrate preparation is critical. Paint, plaster, damaged render, salts and loose material may need to be removed before the waterproof barrier is installed.
Type C Cavity Drain Protection
Type C waterproofing uses a studded membrane installed across the internal walls and floor. Water entering through the structure is managed behind the membrane and directed towards drainage or a sump and pump.
Cavity drain membrane systems are frequently selected for existing basements because they manage water ingress while providing a dry internal surface for refurbishment.
Combined Waterproofing Protection
Where the consequences or risk of water ingress are greater, the design may use more than one form of waterproofing. A combined system can provide additional protection if one element is damaged or placed under unexpected pressure.
Our surveyor will explain which system is appropriate and why it is being recommended.
Our Tanking and Waterproofing Process
Initial Consultation
We begin by discussing the problems affecting the property, any previous waterproofing work and how you intend to use the finished space.
Professional Site Survey
One of our experienced surveyors inspects the basement, cellar or below-ground structure. The survey considers the condition of the walls and floor, visible water ingress, cracks, joints, drainage and any existing waterproofing system.
Waterproofing Design
We design a solution based on the property, the water ingress risk and the intended internal environment. The recommendation may include Type A tanking, a Type C cavity drain membrane or combined protection.
Detailed Quotation
You will receive a clear scope describing the proposed waterproofing system, the preparation required and the installation work involved.
Substrate and Site Preparation
Where necessary, existing finishes are removed to expose the structure. Defects, joints, cracks and service penetrations are prepared before the waterproofing system is installed.
Professional Installation
Our trained technicians install the specified system in accordance with the relevant design and manufacturer’s requirements.
Inspection and Documentation
The installation is inspected and documented. Qualifying projects receive our free 10-year installation and product warranty.
Complete Refurbishment
If required, we can continue beyond the waterproofing installation and complete the internal refurbishment of the basement or cellar.
Established Waterproofing Products
The performance of a waterproofing installation depends on its design, preparation, detailing and workmanship as well as the products selected.
Universal Basement Waterproofing installs proven systems from established manufacturers, including Delta Membrane Systems, KÖSTER and Sika.
As Delta Membrane Systems approved installers, we install cavity drain membranes, drainage components and associated basement waterproofing systems.
We also install KÖSTER waterproofing products and Sika waterproofing systems where these are appropriate for the property and the required specification.
The chosen system will be explained in the waterproofing recommendation provided after the survey.
Domestic Tanking Contractors
We provide tanking and waterproofing services for homeowners, landlords, developers and property managers.
Domestic projects range from resolving damp in a small cellar to waterproofing and refurbishing an entire basement as a home office, gym, cinema room, utility room or additional living space.
Period properties and older London homes often present particular waterproofing challenges. Restricted external access, irregular masonry, historic alterations and changing ground conditions must all be considered before a system is installed.
Our surveyors design the waterproofing around the individual building rather than relying on a standard specification.
Commercial Tanking Contractors
Universal Basement Waterproofing undertakes commercial waterproofing for property owners, developers, contractors, facilities managers and other organisations.
Our experience includes commercial basements, underground storage areas, plant rooms, lift pits, service spaces, retaining structures and large below-ground construction projects.
We can provide survey findings, waterproofing recommendations, installation documentation, on-site technical support and coordination with other trades involved in the project.
Our team undertakes work ranging from domestic projects valued from approximately £10,000 to major commercial and construction projects valued at more than £1 million.
Choosing the Right Tanking Contractor
Basement waterproofing can be difficult and expensive to correct if the original design or installation is unsuitable. It is therefore important to appoint a contractor who will assess the complete structure rather than treating only the visible damp.
A competent tanking contractor should be able to explain where the water is likely to be entering, which waterproofing system is being recommended and how vulnerable areas such as joints, floors, corners and penetrations will be treated.
The contractor should also explain how the system will be inspected, maintained and guaranteed after installation.
Universal Basement Waterproofing provides clear recommendations, detailed scopes of work and documented installations so that you understand what is being fitted and why.
Why Choose Universal Basement Waterproofing?
More Than 50 Years of Experience
Our team combines specialist waterproofing knowledge with extensive construction and refurbishment experience.
Delta Approved Installers
Universal Basement Waterproofing is an approved installer of Delta Membrane Systems products.
BS 8102-Compliant Recommendations
Our waterproofing recommendations follow the principles of BS 8102 for protecting below-ground structures against water ingress.
Domestic and Commercial Capability
We work on residential cellars, converted basements, commercial buildings and complex below-ground structures.
Multiple Waterproofing Systems
We install Type A, Type C and combined waterproofing solutions rather than attempting to use one system for every property.
Complete Project Management
We can manage the work from the initial survey and waterproofing design through to installation and complete internal refurbishment.
Detailed Documentation
Our completed waterproofing work is inspected and documented, providing a clear record of the system installed.
Free 10-Year Warranty
Qualifying domestic and commercial waterproofing installations receive our free 10-year installation and product warranty. Optional insurance-backed warranty protection is also available.
Tanking Contractors Across London and the South East
Our tanking contractors work throughout London, Kent, Surrey, Essex, Sussex and surrounding areas.
We provide basement tanking, cellar waterproofing, cavity drain membrane installation and structural waterproofing for domestic and commercial properties.
If you are unsure whether we cover your location, call our team on 020 3795 4900.
Tanking Contractors Frequently Asked Questions
What does a tanking contractor do?
A tanking contractor surveys, designs and installs waterproofing systems for basements, cellars and other below-ground structures. The work can include barrier tanking, cavity drain membranes, drainage, sump pumps, joint treatment and associated repairs.
What is the difference between tanking and waterproofing?
Tanking generally refers to creating a waterproof barrier across walls and floors. Waterproofing is a broader term that also includes cavity drainage, membranes, pumps and combined systems designed to protect the structure against water ingress.
Do I need a specialist contractor?
Basement waterproofing should be designed and installed by people with appropriate experience. Incorrect preparation, unsuitable materials or incomplete detailing can lead to leaks and expensive remedial work.
Which tanking system is best?
There is no single system that is best for every property. The correct choice depends on the construction, ground conditions, water pressure, substrate and intended use of the space.
Can you repair an existing tanking system?
Yes, depending on the condition and type of system. We will inspect the installation and determine whether a targeted repair, additional protection or complete replacement is required.
Can you waterproof an existing cellar?
Yes. We regularly waterproof existing cellars affected by damp, water ingress or flooding. A professional survey is required before the correct system can be confirmed.
How much does basement tanking cost?
The cost depends on the size and condition of the basement, the preparation required, the water ingress risk and the selected system. We provide a detailed quotation after surveying the property.
How long does basement tanking take?
Smaller projects may take several days, while larger or more complex installations can take several weeks. We will provide an expected schedule once the waterproofing design and scope have been confirmed.
Is your tanking work guaranteed?
Qualifying commercial and domestic waterproofing installations receive our free 10-year installation and product warranty. The specific protection applicable to your project will be explained before work begins.
Do you undertake complete basement refurbishments?
Yes. In addition to the specialist waterproofing work, we can provide the trades and services required to fully refurbish the basement or cellar.
Request a Survey From Our Tanking Contractors
If your basement or cellar is affected by damp, leaks or water ingress, arrange a professional assessment with Universal Basement Waterproofing.
Our surveyor will inspect the property, investigate the problem and recommend a waterproofing system suited to the structure and its intended use.
You will then receive a clear scope of work and a detailed, no-obligation quotation.
Request Your Tanking Survey Today
To speak to our waterproofing team, call
020 3795 4900.
Email:
info@unbw.co.uk
Book Your Basement Survey Now
One of our waterproofing specialists will inspect your basement, discuss the most suitable waterproofing system and provide expert recommendations with no obligation.
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Ready to Transform Your Basement?
Whether you’re planning a new basement or need to stop persistent damp and water ingress, our experienced surveyors can recommend the right waterproofing solution.
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Frequently Asked Questions
In many cases, basement waterproofing alone does not require planning permission. However, basement construction, excavation, or significant structural alterations may require planning approval and Building Regulations compliance, particularly in certain London boroughs or conservation areas. We can advise you during your survey and help you understand any permissions your project may require.
The duration of a basement waterproofing project depends on the size and complexity of the work. Smaller waterproofing installations can often be completed within a few days, while larger basement construction or full structural waterproofing projects may take several weeks. Following your survey, we’ll provide a clear project schedule so you know exactly what to expect.
There is no single waterproofing system that is suitable for every property. The most effective solution depends on factors such as the construction of the building, ground conditions, water ingress risk, and how you intend to use the basement. Our experienced surveyors will assess your property and recommend the most appropriate BS8102-compliant waterproofing system, whether that’s a Type A (barrier protection), Type C (cavity drain membrane), or a combined system for maximum protection. We only install proven products from leading manufacturers, including Delta, KÖSTER, and Sika.
Yes. We install high-quality waterproofing systems from leading manufacturers such as Delta, KÖSTER, and Sika, following BS8102 standards for below-ground waterproofing. Our waterproofing systems are fully guaranteed, giving you confidence that your basement will remain dry and protected for years to come. We’ll explain the guarantees available during your survey.
We provide basement construction and structural waterproofing services throughout London, Kent, Surrey, Essex, Sussex, and the surrounding areas. If you’re unsure whether we cover your location, simply get in touch and our team will be happy to help.
Yes. We regularly waterproof existing basements, cellars, and vaults, whether they’re affected by damp, water ingress, or you’re planning to convert the space into a dry, usable room. Every property is different, so we carry out a professional survey to identify the cause of the problem before recommending the most suitable waterproofing solution. Our systems are designed to provide long-term protection while complying with BS8102 standards for below-ground structures.
With over 50 years of experience, Universal Basement Waterproofing has designed and installed waterproofing systems for properties across London and the South East. Our experienced surveyors design BS8102-compliant waterproofing solutions using trusted systems from Delta, KÖSTER, and Sika. From initial survey through to installation, we focus on delivering long-lasting, fully guaranteed waterproofing solutions tailored to every property.
We aim to arrange surveys as quickly as possible, subject to availability. During your survey, one of our experienced waterproofing specialists will assess your basement, discuss your requirements, identify any issues with damp or water ingress, and recommend the most suitable waterproofing solution. You’ll then receive a detailed, no-obligation quotation for the work required.