Builders & Renovation Specialists in Brixton

About Brixton

Common Projects in Brixton

Nearby Areas

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Article 4 directions and how do they affect Brixton projects?

Article 4 directions are local planning rules that remove specific permitted development rights in designated streets. Lambeth has introduced Article 4 directions in parts of Brixton (mostly around conservation areas) that require full planning permission for changes that would otherwise be permitted development — typically front-of-property changes like external cladding, window replacement, or roof material changes. They don't usually affect rear extensions or loft conversions, but we always verify the planning status of each property on the Lambeth planning portal before quoting. Cost impact is typically nil if the work is rear-only; an extra £206 planning fee plus 4-6 weeks lead time if a full application is needed.

Why is damp common in Brixton basement and lower ground floor flats?

London Clay holds groundwater, and the lower-lying parts of Brixton (around Acre Lane and Brixton Water Lane) have higher persistent moisture levels than properties higher up Brixton Hill. Original slate damp-proof courses on pre-1900 properties have often failed after 120+ years, allowing rising damp through the ground-floor walls. Basement-level flats can also suffer penetrating damp from groundwater pressure on external walls. We diagnose the cause first (rising, penetrating, or condensation each need different treatments), then treat with chemical DPC injection plus replastering, or waterproof tanking for basement walls. Cost from £2,500 depending on cause and area.

Are Brixton conservation areas restrictive for extensions?

Moderately. The Brixton Conservation Area, Rush Common conservation area, and Brixton Hill conservation area impose specific requirements on visible alterations. Lambeth Council is generally supportive of sensitive rear extensions under permitted development but particular about materials and design in conservation areas. Front-facing changes need sympathetic design — typically painting, render colour changes, and front door replacements need consideration. Rear extensions are usually fine because they're not visible from the street. Lambeth's pre-application advice service is useful for confirming feasibility on borderline cases. We design to Lambeth's published guidelines from the outset.

What's a typical budget for a Brixton renovation?

A full renovation of a typical 3-bedroom Brixton Victorian terrace lands at from £80,000 depending on scope. Lower end covers rewire, replumb, new kitchen and bathroom, plastering, decoration. Higher end adds a single-storey rear extension with bifold doors, loft conversion to add a fourth bedroom, premium fixtures, and structural work to open up the ground floor. Brixton's rising property values mean renovation work typically returns 1.3-1.5x its cost in property uplift. We provide a fixed-price contract after the survey so the budget is firm before any work starts.