Pro & Con of Basement

[msananthu]

Prakash

I tried reaching your mail id, but it bounced back, please check if the mail id is provided is correct pknm_m at gmail dot com

[blrsiteseeker]

folks, if you go for the basement (as in totally below ground level) then you have all those issues. Instead have it such that you are partially below ground level, but have windows and such above ground level. that is what I have
1. the elevation/vasthu as someone said will not be good - is not an issue any more, there is full daylight and cross ventilation.
2. dampness - I have had it (granted only 2 years), but no smell, no dampness nothing.
3. I can use it as livable space even - although it is designed for parking (since the lighting is perfect). In fact, my plan is to use that when we have large parties (our grihapravesha lunch was served in that space).

The disadvantage to this is that
1. you have to have some steps to get to the main level of the house. I don't mind it, but some people have issues with steps.
2. cost like everyone else mentioned - it is higher, but then this cannot be retrofitted, so better to plan in detail now about its utility.
3. water issues may happen when we get severe rains, but so far, we have been good.