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Hi there Looking for some clarity please, about what we've recently been told by our architect. To be honest, i'm not entirely clear on the whole issue so I may not even be asking the right questions, but here goes.... We recently amended our plans (and got approval) to add a basement to our new build. We're going to use ICF to build the house and intended to also use ICF for the basement. At a recent meeting with our architect he told us that in order to get a warranty for the build, the basement should be done by a registered basement company and not suing ICF, as the regulations changed in April (and he explained to us the need for a minimum of two forms of waterproofing etc). This was news to us, and whilst we're happy to build the basement with something other than ICF if that makes life simpler, e.g concrete form etc, I'm a bit cynical about the need to use a 'registered basement company' as this just sounds like its going to get very expensive. So my questions are; 1. Is this correct about needing to use a registered basement company, or can a good Groundworks company or builder do the basement? Or what would those of you who've been down this route already recommend if there are other options we should be looking at? 2. From a warranty perspective what happens if we don't use a registered basement co, i.e. are we mad to even consider not using one? Would we not be able to get a warranty at all for any of the new build then? 3. Does our basement construction choice also potentially have a negative impact on a mortgage further down the line if we needed to remortgage? I don't know, what I don't know, so would really appreciate some help! Thanks in advance

Hi guys Would really appreciate any advice on building a big basement with indoor pool (400sqm, 3m high ceilings, 10m*4m pool) The swimming pool would have 1m below ground and 50cm above ground level Early considerations include: the plot is a 1.1acre and luckily there are no considerations of neighbouring boundaries etc access is good Ground investigations have been completed for my house, and the house next door, they show the same thing more or less, these can be uploaded as requested Without going into loads of detail, summary: Windlesham formation units: silty glauconitic sand to around 4.5m, then clay Encountered water around 2-2.5mbgl in areas (not everywhere) On the basis of the above shoring recommended, perhaps sheet piling needed (ground collapses around the dig quite fast in areas) dewatering needed (it looks like there is perched water around 2-2.5mbgl) We (the groundworks team and my appointed SE) have concluded so far that: We dig out 1.5mbgl - this area would be stable. Then dewater and pile below this (keeps piling cost down). We need to get to around 4.5-5.5mbgl for the basement (to include services etc and headlight approx 3m and 1m for the pool) Main areas of advice please to relate to potential costs of: Potential Piling needed Basement construction Also any recommendations of contractors around the Windlesham, Surrey area? I have received a quote from Glatharr prefabricated basements at around £500K (10 week build time) Other traditional builds are running at around £400K-£1mill! (4-6months build time) Prices include waterproofing and 10 year warranties etc Everyone so far has recommended against ICF, although the nudura rep seems to think its totally possible I think I want to go with the germans - because: They are German This is specialised work Basements leak in our area The house on top will only be as good as the basement below etc Much quicker build and I want to get on with the rest of the house BUT Is £500K a crazy price? Many thanks in advance for any help/advice Best Raju