Airtightness

Controlling the air permeability is identified as a key feature of improving the energy efficiency of the building fabric. This is easy to achieve with basements since the structure is below ground and also typically has an impermeable waterproofing layer.

Requirements for airtightness and ventilation are covered by Part F of Building Regulations.

The ventilation strategy for a basement should address:

• Extract ventilation
• Whole building/dwelling ventilation
• Purge ventilation (in response to a short-term increased need for ventilation).

For more information see Ventilation. All information correct as of 2013 amendments.