Category: Design
Prepared by Eng. Ahmed Fathy, Projects Manager ·
Definition
A basement is a storey wholly or partly below natural ground level, used for parking, storage, services or living. Current villa rules allow it over the whole plot, and it is habitable if light and ventilation meet the code.
Why it matters on a project
It adds area outside the coverage ratio, but costs more per square metre for excavation, retaining walls and full waterproofing, and any waterproofing error shows as damp years later.
Measurement and pricing
Excavation in cubic metres, walls and floor in cubic metres of concrete, waterproofing in square metres for every surface against soil.
Common mistake
Designing the basement without rainwater drainage at the ramp and entrance, so parking floods in the first storm.
Frequently asked questions
Is a basement habitable?
Yes if natural light and ventilation meet the code; otherwise it is used for services, parking and storage.
How much does a basement add?
It depends on depth and groundwater, but its structure costs clearly more per square metre than upper floors because of excavation, walls and waterproofing.
Related terms
- Retaining wallA wall designed to hold back soil on one side.
- ExcavationRemoving soil down to the required foundation level.
- WaterproofingLayers preventing water ingress into structural elements or spaces, such as bituminous membranes and cementitious coatings.
- Building coverage ratioThe share of the plot area that each floor may cover.
Read next
- Villa construction cost in Riyadh 2026: price per m2
- Work out quantities with our free calculators: concrete, tiles, paint and plaster. Open the calculators
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