Detailed Site Inspection
Our surveyor will normally spend several hours at the property examining the basement, external conditions and other areas that could influence the waterproofing design.
A detailed waterproofing survey identifies the cause of water ingress, assesses the risks affecting your property and provides the foundation for a reliable waterproofing design.
Every basement is different. Its construction, surrounding ground, drainage, water table and intended use all influence how it should be protected. Installing a waterproofing system without first understanding these conditions can result in unsuitable specifications, avoidable expense and future system failure.
With more than 50 years of experience, Universal Basement Waterproofing provides detailed surveys for existing basements, cellars, new construction and commercial below-ground structures throughout London and the South East.
Our survey fee is typically £450 plus VAT. This includes the site visit, detailed investigation, photographic records, waterproofing recommendations, system design and a comprehensive quotation for the proposed work.
Our surveyor considers the structure as a whole, not simply the most visible patch of damp. This allows the proposed waterproofing design to address the underlying risks as well as the current symptoms.
01
Water Table Classification
02
Ground & Drainage Conditions
03
Source of Water Ingress
04
Existing Construction
05
Location of Existing Drains
06
Gas, Contaminant & Site Risks
07
Type A, B or C Protection
08
Intended Use of the Space
Where the level of risk requires it, our surveyor will also consider whether combined waterproofing protection should be incorporated into the design.
Your survey is completed by an experienced in-house waterproofing specialist who will investigate the property, document the findings and develop an appropriate waterproofing recommendation.
Our surveyor will normally spend several hours at the property examining the basement, external conditions and other areas that could influence the waterproofing design.
Site-specific observations, measurements and photographic evidence are recorded to document existing defects, vulnerable details and potential routes of water ingress.
Where appropriate, our surveyor can meet your architect, designer or contractor on site to review drawings, discuss concerns and answer technical questions.
The findings are used to produce a detailed report setting out the observations, identified risks, proposed waterproofing system and recommended scope of work.
Where required, the report is supported by a detailed CAD drawing showing the proposed system, important junctions and the waterproofing arrangement.
The completed report is reviewed by our Contracts Manager and Directors before issue. Reports are normally supplied within 10 days of the visit, depending on the project’s size and complexity.
Our surveys are undertaken by trained and highly experienced waterproofing professionals. Our surveyors hold the Certified Surveyor in Structural Waterproofing qualification and understand the design considerations involved in protecting below-ground structures.
A professional waterproofing survey is a substantial technical service rather than a brief sales visit. The fee contributes towards the time, expertise, investigation and design work required to develop a reliable specification for your property.
The investigation allows the waterproofing system to be designed around the building rather than relying on a generic specification or assumptions made from photographs.
Identifying structural details, drainage conditions and potential water-ingress routes before work begins helps prevent delays, specification errors and unexpected costs.
The report and CAD design provide a clear reference for the client, surveyor, installation team, architects and other professionals involved in the project.
You receive a considered waterproofing recommendation and detailed project quotation before deciding whether to proceed with the proposed installation.
Over the last 50 years, we have surveyed basements of different ages, sizes, depths and methods of construction. We are also regularly asked to investigate failed waterproofing systems originally installed using unsuitable specifications, substandard materials or inexperienced contractors.
This experience helps us recognise potential risks early, recommend an appropriate waterproofing approach and produce designs intended to deliver dependable, long-term protection.
Book a detailed property inspection with one of our experienced waterproofing surveyors. We will assess the structure, investigate the water ingress and recommend the appropriate next steps.
One of our waterproofing specialists will inspect your basement, discuss the most suitable waterproofing system and provide expert recommendations with no obligation.
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.
✔ Professional Survey
✔ Fully Guaranteed Work
✔ 50+ Years Experience
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.
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.