This Good Building Guide discusses one of the main challenges when designing a basement: preventing water or water vapour ingress. The focus is on dampness due to penetration of groundwater, sometimes complicated by rising damp. This part describes the main methods for perimeter construction with advice on safety, insulation and services. The first part outlines the principles of constructing a waterproof basement. Each part is 6 pages.

Contents of Part 2:

Construction methods for domestic-scale basements
- Blockwork walls
- In-situ reinforced concrete
- Precast insulated panels

Construction methods for large and/or deep basements
- Steel-intensive basements
- Diaphragm walls
- Contiguous bored piles
- Secant piles

● Noise resistance
● Thermal performance
● Ventilation
● Fire safety and means of escape
● Daylighting
● Drainage
● Heat-producing appliances
● Vehicle access
References and further reading