Waterproofing Design Partnership

Why a Basement Waterproofing Design Partnership Matters

When it comes to below-ground waterproofing and basement waterproofing design, a successful outcome is not just about installing the right products. It’s also about designing the right system from the outset.

Our role is simple but critical: reduce risk, ensure compliance, and provide peace of mind through designs backed by Professional Indemnity cover and over 175 years of waterproofing expertise.

Poor or incomplete basement waterproofing design can lead to costly remedial work. It can also cause liability disputes and failure to meet BS 8102:2022 compliance.

That’s why Newton offers a Basement Waterproofing Design Partnership. This collaborative approach brings specifiers, architects, structural engineers, contractors, and clients together with our CSSW-qualified design team. As a result, we deliver robust, compliant, and cost-effective waterproofing strategies.

Talk To A Basement Waterproofing Design Specialist

Get in touch with our team today by calling 01732 360 095 or emailing design@newtonwaterproofing.co.uk.

Our dedicated technical team will promptly reach out to you within 48 hours. As a result, you can count on us for unparalleled design and project support to ensure the success of your waterproofing endeavours.

Early Engagement At RIBA Stages

Typically, we engage at RIBA Stage 3 or RIBA Stage 4. However, involving us from Stage 2 ensures proactive risk management, cost certainty, and compliance from the earliest design decisions. All work is carried out within the RIBA Plan of Work outline.

Work With A Basement Waterproofing Design Specialist

At Newton, we are extremely proud of our leading technical services. In addition, our Professional Indemnity Insurance for waterproofing design has been maintained for over 20 years, and our bespoke Waterproofing Design Service is formally backed by our insurers.

Our service covers every stage of the journey:

• Initial consultations and design meetings to fully understand the project requirements
• Detailed specifications in accordance with BS 8102:2022
• On-site technical support during installation
• Coordination with Newton Specialist Contractors for guaranteed workmanship & insurance-backed install guarantees

Our technical team includes nine Certificated Surveyors in Structural Waterproofing (CSSWs). This ensures your design is created by professionals who understand not only the theory but also the practical challenges of building below ground.

Understanding British Standard 8102:2022 & Internal Environment Grades

Table 2 of BS 8102:2022 defines the three internal environment grades for below-ground structures. These grades determine the acceptable level of water ingress and the measures required to maintain the desired internal conditions:

Therefore, when assessing the appropriate internal environment grade, always refer to Table 2 of BS 8102:2022. Do this when defining and agreeing on the performance grade of a design.

Golden Thread Approach & Professional Indemnity Insurance

Bringing together the client, the specifier, the supplier, and the contractor, the Waterproofing Design Partnership delivers a ‘golden thread’ of waterproofing expertise, supported by Professional Indemnity Insurance.

It is frequently difficult for specifiers to secure Professional Indemnity cover for waterproofing designs. However, our design team takes on the liability under our PI. We work directly with the specifier, acting as the designated waterproofing designer in compliance with the British Standard, and delivering the specialist expertise required by the Building Safety Act.

Upon design completion, our approved contractor assumes liability for the waterproofing under their own PI. Consequently, the client benefits from both a guaranteed installation and the quality of a fully accountable design.

Recommended Newton Solutions

When developing a basement waterproofing design, we always take the following into consideration.

1. Designing for full head of pressure – We design for the maximum possible hydrostatic pressure on a structure. This accounts for unknown future events such as changes in the water table or burst water mains.
2. The feasibility of repair – In many habitable spaces, if a Type A or Type B system were to fail post-construction, repairs are often impractical and costly.
3. Guarantees for comprehensive installations – A Type C cavity drain system safely collects and channels any seepage away from the structure. This ensures the desired internal environment grade is maintained.

Without Type C protection, a Newton Specialist Basement Contractor would not typically provide an installation guarantee for Grade 2 or Grade 3 spaces. Similarly, Newton would not accept design liability under our PI cover without Type C inclusion. In many cases, Type A-only solutions can achieve only Grade 1b performance and will not be guaranteed.

Radon and Ground Gas Protection

In line with BRE 211 guidance, all below-ground structures are at higher risk from radon gas. Therefore, they require at least basic radon protection. In addition, all gas protection systems must be designed and verified by a qualified specialist.

Drainage Considerations

For water collected by a Type C system, we generally recommend sump and pump discharge. This applies unless a gravity drainage option is proven safe, permanent, and free from future blockage. If in doubt, a sump and pump system is the safest approach.

Our designs include maintainable systems with strategically placed inspection ports in the BaseDrain for inspection and cleaning, in accordance with BS 8102:2022.

The Newton Waterproofing Design Service

Do you need a specialist waterproofing designer to take on the liability for your project? Newton’s Waterproofing Design Service provides:

1. A fully coordinated design prepared by CSSW-qualified professionals
2. PI cover supporting our recommendations
3. Appointment of a designated waterproofing specialist in line with BS 8102:2022
4. No post-tender surprises – the design is robust and cost-considered from the start
5. A system designed to achieve the required Grade and eligibility for installer-backed guarantees

We typically engage at RIBA Stages 3 and 4, working alongside your project team to ensure a compliant, risk-managed design. Consulting with us at Stage 2 is also advisable.

Partner with Newton – Over 175 years of Expertise

By engaging Newton early, you secure more than just technical expertise. You gain a partner committed to protecting your structure, your reputation, and your client’s investment.

Our combination of industry-leading products, expert design, and collaborative approach ensures long-term performance and peace of mind.

For further information on our bespoke design service, please speak with a member of our Design Department, call us on 01732 360 095, email design@newtonwaterproofing.co.uk, or fill out the contact form below, and we will respond within 48 hours.