Cellar Tanking London
Turn a Damp, Unusable Cellar Into Dry, Secure Space
At London Property Preservation (trading as London Damp Solutions), we have been protecting properties across the capital since 1994. Our BS 8102:2022-compliant cellar tanking systems are designed, installed and guaranteed by qualified specialists, giving your home the protection it needs and giving you one less thing to worry about.
- 30+ years of damp and waterproofing experience in London
- Approved Triton Contractors with full system guarantees
- Members of the National Register of Property Preservation Specialists
- Rated 4.7 out of 5 on Google by homeowners across South London
- Checkatrade verified
What Is Cellar Tanking?
Cellar tanking is a form of structural waterproofing that seals a below-ground room against water ingress. In practice, it means applying one or more waterproofing layers to the walls and floor of the cellar so that moisture from the surrounding earth cannot reach the internal surfaces.
There are three main approaches recognised under the current British Standard for structural waterproofing (BS 8102:2022):
- Type A (barrier protection) uses a cementitious slurry, epoxy or bitumen coating applied directly to the structure to form a physical barrier.
- Type B (structurally integral protection) relies on the building’s own reinforced concrete to resist water.
- Type C (drained protection) uses a studded cavity drain membrane that manages any water that enters, directing it to a sump chamber and pump.
Most London cellars benefit from a carefully chosen combination of these methods, which is why a proper survey matters so much.
Signs Your Cellar Needs Tanking
Below-ground spaces rarely fail overnight. The signs build up gradually, and by the time they become obvious the issue has often been there for months or years. Look out for:
- A persistent musty smell, even when the cellar is aired out
- Damp patches, tide marks or staining on walls and floors
- White salt deposits (efflorescence) on brickwork
- Black mould growth on walls, skirting or stored items
- Flaking paint, crumbling plaster or blown render
- Pooling water after heavy rain or during high water table months
- Rotting timber, joists or stair treads near the cellar
Left untreated, cellar damp can lead to rising damp, dry rot, penetrating damp and serious black mould in the living space above. Not sure what is causing your damp problem in the first place? Our guide on why basements leak is a good place to start.
Why Choose London Damp Solutions for Cellar Tanking?
1
Family-Run Since 1994
Three decades of working on London properties, run by the same family the whole way through. Every job matters because our reputation is built one home at a time.
2
Qualified, Approved, Accountable
We are approved Triton Contractors and members of the National Register of Property Preservation Specialists. Our work is backed by both insurance-backed guarantees and manufacturer system warranties where applicable.
3
Honest Assessments
If tanking is not the right answer for your cellar, we will say so. In some cases improved drainage, ventilation, or work to the exterior will resolve the problem more economically. Our survey report explains what you actually need, not what is easiest for us to sell.
4
One Team, Start to Finish
The person who surveys your cellar is the same person running the job. No handovers to an unfamiliar team, no hidden subcontractors, and no pressure selling.
Our Cellar Tanking Process
1
Free Damp Survey
Get in touch and we will arrange a free survey at a time that suits you. One of our specialists inspects the cellar, identifies the source of moisture, and talks through how you want to use the space.
2
Tailored Plan and Written Quote
We put together a clear plan covering the recommended system, scope of works, and a written quote. We explain the reasoning in plain English so you can decide what is right for your home.
3
Installation and Finishing
Our team installs the chosen tanking system to manufacturer specification. Where the cellar is being finished, we also prepare the surfaces ready for decoration before we sign off.
For a fuller walk-through of the practical side of things, our How to Tank a Basement guide is a useful next read.
Cellar Tanking Across London
Based in Croydon, we cover homes and commercial properties across South London and the surrounding areas, including Bromley, Clapham, Wandsworth, Dulwich, Wimbledon, Sutton, and Central London. With over 30 years working on London housing stock, our team understands the quirks of Victorian, Edwardian, and Georgian cellars as well as newer builds.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is cellar tanking?
Cellar tanking is a waterproofing method that seals below-ground walls and floors to stop water and moisture entering. It can use slurry, cavity drain membranes, pumps, or a combination, depending on the property.
How much does cellar tanking cost?
Costs vary widely depending on cellar size, condition, the system chosen, and any preparation work needed. A fixed price is provided in writing after a free site survey, so you know exactly where you stand before any work begins.
How long does cellar tanking last?
A professionally installed system can last 20 to 30 years or more, especially with good maintenance and regular sump pump servicing where required.
Do I need building regulations approval?
Usually not for dry storage. However, if the cellar is being converted into a habitable room, building regulations approval is required for areas such as ventilation, fire safety, insulation, headroom, and waterproofing.
Can I tank a cellar myself?
DIY kits are available, but professional installation is recommended for anything beyond a very small storage area. Poor installation can fail and make damp problems worse.
Contact Us !
Ready to Protect Your Cellar?
Every week you wait, the damp has more time to work. If you are worried about water, damp smells, or mould in your cellar, let us take a proper look. Our survey is completely free, with no obligation, no sales pressure, and no jargon.
Call 020 8689 0073
Email info@londondampsolutions.co.uk
Visit us at 13-15 Lancing Road, Croydon CR0 3EN