Direct answer
Clearing a basement or cellar in London typically costs about £350 to £800: a volume price based on our van-load table, plus an allowance of about 20% to 40% for labour where there are steep stairs, poor light and a long carry. Those are indicative ranges, not a fixed rate card: a licensed carrier quotes the real price for your space.
What basement and cellar clearance costs in London
Volume price plus a labour allowance.
A basement or cellar is priced like any clearance by volume, with an extra allowance because the work is harder. Our prices page publishes the van-load table that the volume part is based on. On top of that, carriers commonly allow an extra 20% to 40% for labour where there are steep stairs, poor light and a long carry to the vehicle.
| Item | Indicative figure |
|---|---|
| Typical basement or cellar clearance | £350 – £800 |
| Labour allowance for stairs, low light and long carries | +20% to 40% on the volume price |
| Stairs without a lift (from /prices/) | +£30 – £60 per flight |
These are indicative planning ranges, not a promise of a price. A quarter-full cellar with a straight stair is at the low end, and a full basement with damp contents is at the high end.
Why basements are harder
Access, light and condition.
- Steep or narrow stairs. Every item has to be carried up by hand.
- Light and ventilation. Poor lighting and air slow the work and may need extra equipment.
- Damp and mould. Wet or mouldy items are heavier and messier. Tell the carrier.
- Hazards. Paint, chemicals, gas bottles and possible asbestos need separate handling. See our paint, gas bottle and asbestos guides.
- Distance to the vehicle. A long carry from the door increases the time.
How to prepare a basement clearance
Safety first.
- Photograph the space and the stairs.
- Make sure there is safe lighting on the stairs and in the room.
- Do not move items you suspect contain asbestos or hazardous liquids, and say so.
- Check for pests, damp and flood history, and tell the carrier.
How the process works, start to finish
Three steps from description to collection.
Describe the job
Say what is in the basement and its condition, roughly how much there is and anything you want to keep.
Add access and timing
Mention the stairs, lighting, damp, hazards and where a vehicle can park.
Get a carrier quote
Post the job, compare licensed carriers' quotes and choose, with no obligation to accept.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a basement clearance cost in London?
Indicatively £350 to £800, depending on volume and access. The real price is the quote you receive.
Why is it more expensive than a ground-floor room?
Steep stairs, poor light and a long carry make it harder, so carriers often add about 20% to 40% for labour.
Can you clear a damp or flooded cellar?
Often yes, but say so when you post, because wet items are heavier and may need extra care.
What about hazardous items?
Paint, chemicals, gas bottles and possible asbestos need separate handling, so flag them when you post.
Do stairs add to the price?
Our prices page notes typically £30 to £60 per flight where there is no lift.
Can everything be taken in one visit?
Usually, if the carrier knows the volume and access. Photos help.
Ready to see your price?
Post your basement or cellar clearance for licensed carriers to quote on.
