Knowledge Builders

how much does it cost to do a basement conversion

by Elnora Brekke PhD Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
image

Want to convert that unused area into a livable space, but how much does it cost to finish a basement? The cost ranges from $2,800 to $33,985 with the national average at $18,395. Finishing a basement is an excellent way to create more living space in a home.Jul 29, 2022

Full Answer

How much does it cost to renovate a basement?

You’ll want to consider all of the remodel costs to make sure no unexpected surprises pop up when you’re already knee deep in your project. On average, Thumbtack suggests that a basement remodel can cost anywhere between $5,000 to $70,000, depending on the scope and size of the project.

What is the average price to finish a basement?

What is the cost to finish a basement? If you are wondering, “How much should I budget to finish my basement?” you can plan on a range of “$2,800 to $33,985 with the national average at $18,395,” according to Home Advisor. They also provide a handy calculator to give you a ballpark on price.

How much does it cost to finish your basement?

Finishing a basement costs $25,000-$35,000, but some basement costs over $100,000 to finish.Meanwhile, some homeowners only spend about $1,000-$5,500 on their basements. It all depends on the square feet of your project, the project scope (full vs. partial basement), regional labor costs and the type of finishes and materials you select.

How much does basement lowering cost?

The cost of lowering a basement floor depends on various factors such as the size of the space, access to the site, the extent to which you want it reduced, where you live, weather, and landscaping. But on average, this process can cost between $35 and $70 per square feet. Typically, basements have shallow ceilings, and lowering them will give ...

image

How much does a basement conversion cost UK?

Summing Up The Basement Conversion Cost: Conversion of an existing basement: £800-£1500 per square metre. Lowering the floor level: £1,400 – £2,100 per square metre. Digging a new basement space underneath a garden: £1,500 – £2,000 per square metre.

Is it worth it to dig out a basement?

Even so, digging out a basement can be worth it. With generous ceiling height, it'll feel like an integral part of the house and not just a finished basement. Sometimes, it is the only way to get additional space in your house and can be well worth it.

How long does it take to convert a basement?

How Long Does a Basement Conversion Take? A simple basement conversion can be completed in a matter of weeks. Converting a single-room cellar using a membrane lining system can take just two or three weeks, including digging out the sump and fitting the pumping system.

How much does it cost to drywall a 1000 sq ft basement?

$15,000Average Cost Per Square Foot to Finish a BasementSize (Square Feet)Average Price800$12,0001,000$15,0001,200$18,0001,500$21,3503 more rows

Do basement conversions add value?

Boost Your Home's Value There is no reason your basement conversion should not add serious value to your home. It is generally accepted that it can add from 10% to 20%.

Can you turn crawl space into full basement?

Yes, it is possible to convert a crawl space into a basement. It is not a DIY project, however. Converting a crawl space to a basement is a massive undertaking that requires professional help. It requires a tremendous amount of labor and professional engineering knowledge.

Do you need planning permission to convert a basement?

Converting an existing residential cellar or basement into a living space is in most cases unlikely to require planning permission as long as it is not a separate unit or unless the usage is significantly changed or a light well is added, which alters the external appearance of the property.

Do I need building Regulations to convert a basement?

Converting a basement into a habitable space will require Building Regulations approval even if it only involves a change of use of an existing cellar. Building Regulations will ensure your newly converted basement is safe and energy efficient.

How do I make my basement livable?

The following are the top seven steps you should take to transform your basement into a livable space.Measure Your Basement. ... Inspect Existing Construction Quality. ... Install Insulation and Moisture Protection. ... Install the Right Egress Windows. ... Inspect for Radon. ... Check for Rot and Pest Damage. ... Install a Sump Pump.

What adds the most value when finishing a basement?

The appraised value of finished basement space is generally 50% to 60% of the value of the main level square footage. To maximize the cost/value ratio, the market experts recommend keeping the basement budget below 10% of the existing home's value. Staying between 5-10% is a good plan.

How do you make a unfinished basement livable?

10 Affordable Unfinished Basement Ideas10 Ideas for your Unfinished Basement.1 | Hide Mechanicals. ... 2 | Install Electrical Outlets. ... 3 | Deep Clean the Basement. ... 4 | Add Overhead Lighting. ... 5 | Paint the Exposed Ceiling. ... 6 | Paint the Basement Walls. ... 7 | Paint the Basement Concrete Floors.More items...•

How much does a basement ceiling cost?

Raising a basement ceiling typically costs about $19,200 and can range from $16,000 to $24,000. During this process, the house is lifted and the foundation is raised to a new level.

Is it possible to dig a basement under an existing house?

Yes, you can build a basement under an existing house. The process of building, however, is long and arduous. Building your basement can take at least 9 months to finish. To begin, your contractors will have to move your existing home by raising it and bracing the foundations to keep your house from moving.

Can you dig out part of a basement?

These might even cause foundation problems. It's extremely expensive to dig out a crawl space. A basement can take weeks to dig out, requires significant amounts of structural change, and typically requires that you leave the house while it's happening.

How much does it cost to bench a basement?

The average cost of underpinning and benching for a basement is calculated by linear foot. Thus, if you have a basement that is 40×20, then you have a total of 120 linear feet. Underpinning costs, on average, around $350 per linear foot. Benching costs less, around $250 per linear foot.

Is it cheaper to build on a slab or basement?

You might spend anywhere from $7,000 to $44,500. Slab foundations cost $12,000 on average while poured basements add $20,000 on average. The price depends on your location, the size of your home, and the foundation type.

How much to convert basement?

To help with your planning, here is the Basement Waterproofing Association’s guide to costs for basement conversions: 1 Conversion of an existing cellar: £750 – £1,400 per square metre 2 Lowering the floor level and underpinning an existing cellar: £1,500 – £2,000 per square metre 3 Digging a new basement space and underpinning: £2,000 – £3,000 per square metre 4 Digging a new basement space underneath a garden: £1,500 – £2,000 per square metre 5 Creating a light well / external access: £5,000 – £7,500 6 Engineer’s fees: £1,000 – £1,500 7 Planning application, if required: £165 8 Building Regulations application: £750+ depending on the value of the work undertaken 9 Party wall agreements, if required: £700 per neighbour 10 VAT: an additional 20% added by VAT-registered contractors

Why is basement excavation so expensive?

Basement excavation. A completely new basement excavation will always be more expensive simply because of the amount of work involved. As well as the cost of removing excess materials, there is the cost of tanking or damp proofing the basement, underpinning walls, rerouting sewers or drains, as well as any problems relating to ...

Who is the CEO of Cool Basements?

Author: Peter Little (CEO) Peter Little is the CEO of Cool Basements Ltd. Peter has over 35 years experience in basement construction in and around London and The Cotswolds. This article was first published on 3rd April 2017. (Updated 12th July 2017)

Is it cheaper to convert a basement?

Converting a basement, although not always cheap , is a fantastic way to add value to your property while increasing your living space considerably.

How much does a basement permit cost?

A building permit can cost about $1,350 on average. The price depends on your geographic location, basement size, and the scope of the project. The price of a permit usually includes any required inspection fees. If your basement project involves plumbing or electrical work, or it entails making the space livable, you’ll need a permit. Plumbing and electrical work need to be up to code to ensure proper drainage and prevent blown fuses, short circuits, and fires. Beginning a basement remodel without a permit risks being issued a stop-work order from the city and paying fines and additional fees. You may even have to remove the unpermitted work before you can resume the work. If you ever need to file an insurance claim on the remodeled area, the insurance company may request copies of the work permits, or they might deny the claim. The process of selling the property may also require copies of any remodeling permits. It’s always better to acquire the necessary permits when beginning a basement remodel.

How much does it cost to install electrical wiring in a basement?

Electrical work for a finished basement averages around $1,325. Many cities do not allow homeowners to install wiring or plumbing on their own. A professional electrician or a contractor who is licensed to do electrical work will install new wiring to finish a basement. Expect to pay $75 to $500 to install electrical outlets. On average, the more outlets and switches installed, the cheaper the cost per item. Don’t forget the cost of a permit and inspections to make sure the electrical work is up to code.

Why do you need to finish a basement?

Finishing a basement will help you and your home become more energy efficient. An unfinished basement typically allows air to escape and enter the house, and this will affect heating and cooling costs. Drywall, insulation, and new flooring will help keep the temperature regulated so your HVAC system doesn’t have to work overtime to keep the space cool in the warmer months and warm in the wintertime.

How much does it cost to install a sump pump in a basement?

The type of soil surrounding the home will determine the need for a sump pump, as certain soil types don’t drain as effectively as others. If you live in an area prone to flooding, a sump pump might be necessary as well. The average price for a sump pump installation is $575.

How much does an egress window cost in a basement?

An egress window provides an alternate escape route from the area in case of a fire or other emergency. An egress window costs $3,900 on average, and the egress window must be up to code.

What to consider when finishing a basement?

When finishing a basement, one big concern is compliance with local building codes. The electrical system in your home must be able to handle the increased demand from the finished basement. Your contractor should know if the current amperage, or strength of the electrical current, is strong enough. If it’s not, you’ll have to upgrade the amperage or install a subpanel. If you’re turning the basement into a bedroom, you’ll need a separate emergency exit (either a door or an egress window, which will have to meet specific measurements). A contractor will be aware of the codes and ensure the project is compliant and safe.

What is a partially finished basement?

A partially finished basement is sometimes called a half-finished basement. It could contain bathrooms, showers, a laundry room, exercise equipment, or furniture. It may have some drywall installed, rough-in plumbing, insulation, and heating and cooling.

What do you need to know about basement conversion?

Everything you Need to Know About Basement Conversion for Your Home. Converting your basement into usable living space is gaining popularity, as is excavating under the home to create a basement for any number of uses. Homeowners are faced with decisions when it comes to a home improvement project. Some build up. Others build out.

How long does it take to remodel a basement?

Are you digging out a basement or simply doing an extensive remodel. By most accounts, barring any unforeseen hurdles, a small conversion can take around four weeks. More extensive projects that involve excavating earth can take months, perhaps as long as five months for the most demanding projects.

What is the greatest threat to a basement?

The greatest threat to your basement is water , and because water takes the path of least resistance, and because gravity takes it to the lowest possible point, your basement will be the catchall for any excessive water. Waterproofing is a must.

How far below ground level is a basement?

Anything 6.5 feet below ground level is considered a basement. If you’ve got a “semi-basement,” it’s a basement floor level that is around 3.25 feet below any adjoining ground. If your home is on a slope, you’ll probably see variations in the levels.

What are the pros and cons of a basement remodel?

One of the biggest cons of a basement remodel includes the cost, especially if it involves moving earth, installing waterproofing and doing extensive foundation work. Even if you’re renovating an existing basement, you still have to contend with ventilation and plumbing, which adds time and money to the project.

Why is my basement musty?

Basements are known to be musty, which is caused by damp air that has no means to escape. It might seem like a problem if you rarely go into your basement, but when you plan on spending substantial time there following a conversion, you must consider ventilation.

Why is a basement renovation based on walls and foundations?

This is due mostly to the fact that water is the enemy of just about any basement project. The foundation serves multiple services – it secures the basement and everything above it.

How much does a basement cost?

Most of our basements are in the $17,000 to $25,000 range without a bathroom, kitchenette, or bar.”

How much does it cost to remodel a basement?

The average cost to finish a basement is $32 to $47 per square foot or between $22,000 and $46,000. A 500 sq. ft. basement remodel costs $20,000, and a 1,000 sq. ft. basement renovation is $38,000 on average. Prices depend on if it's an open-plan or with rooms and a kitchen.

How much does it cost to install a basement ceiling?

An average basement ceiling installation cost is $3.50 to $4.30 per square foot when installing ceiling joists and adding R-11 insulation batts plus ceiling drywall. While the price of the drywall is the same, installing ceiling drywall is more complicated and usually requires additional equipment for the best working access. For example, ½” drywall on walls costs $1.13/SF, while ½” drywall on ceilings runs $1.35/SF.

What is the biggest expense of refinishing a basement?

Basement foundation costs could well account for the biggest expense of the basement refinishing project.

How much does it cost to paint a basement floor?

Scoring and polishing the existing basement concrete floor costs $2 per square foot while painting the basement floor with epoxy costs $3 per square foot or more. For other floorings, install wood flooring joists for $1.74 to $3 per linear foot installed and a plywood subfloor for $0.99 to $1.49/SF installed.

How much does foam insulation cost?

Spray-applied closed-cell foam insulation prices range from $700 to $4,000 or $32 – $80.50 per cubic square foot, per 1” of thickness sprayed. Foam is recommended for basement insulation because it is not air permeable—it won’t cause condensation to build up between the insulation and concrete walls.

How much does it cost to install an HVAC system in a basement?

The average cost to install an HVAC system in the basement is $4,000 to $6,400 with new ductwork costing an additional $1,500 to $3,000. You might not have to install a separate HVAC system for the basement if the existing unit upstairs can handle the extra workload. If it can’t, then either upgrade your existing unit or install a second unit downstairs. You’ll have to install new ductwork and ventilation either way, unless you install a mini-split system.

How much does it cost to finish a basement?

Home Adviso r declares that the average cost to finish a basement is $2800 for a 400 square foot space or $33,985 for a 1500 square foot space , averaging $18,395 .

What factors can influence the cost of turning a basement into an apartment?

Learn more about the many factors that can influence the cost of turning a basement into an apartment, including plumbing, wiring, insulation, moisture prevention, egress windows, ventilation, laundry arrangements, and more .

What Are the Added Benefits of Renovating My Basement?

While the many cost considerations for transforming a basement into a liveable area may seem daunting or intimidating, there are also added benefits in addition to a new and improved living space.

What happens if you don't put moisture barriers in your basement?

Failing to input moisture barriers into a basement apartment may result in mold, costly damage, and dangerous living conditions.

What is a walkout in a basement?

An independent exit, a walkout allows basement-level residents to enter and exit their living space without traveling through the main level.

How many bedrooms and bathrooms are needed for a basement apartment?

While the number of bedrooms and bathrooms can be decided based on square footage, it is necessary to have a living room, kitchen, dining area, closet and storage space, and one bedroom and one bathroom to complete the basement apartment.

What appliances are needed for a live in basement?

Consider the various expensive appliances and additions required for a live-in basement standalone kitchen – oven, refrigerator, dishwasher, sink, countertops, and microwave, to name a few.

How much does it cost to build a basement?

If you’re hoping to finish an existing basement , it could set you back anywhere from $7 to $23 per square foot, though the average total cost comes in at about $18,400, according to HomeAdvisor.

How much does a finished basement add to house value?

With so many more homebuyers being interested in basements these days, having one in your home could give you a leg up over the competition when you put it on the market. (Of course, there are no guarantees.)

What is a concrete slab foundation?

Concrete slab foundation is a common basement foundation type that’s known for being easier on the wallet when compared to crawl space foundation or full basement foundation. (The latter tends to be the most expensive option, according to Clark.) Ideal for warmer climates, concrete slab foundations have a reputation for easy maintenance.

What is a walkout basement?

Aside from a traditional full basement, which is entirely underground, some other popular options generally include the following: Walkout basement: These basements have a separate entrance/exit door, making for easy access and additional privacy.

What is the difference between house lifting and underpinning?

Underpinning involves adding depth to your current foundation, while house lifting (also known as “house raising”) temporarily separates your home’s structure from the foundation. As the description implies, it’s a project that isn’t always simple. You’ll need to first consult a general contractor to see if your home and foundation lend themselves to the excavation required to add a basement. If not, your best bet may be to consider a home addition that would serve the same function as a basement.

When will the basement be available for a new home?

Basements are having a moment right now. Homebuyer interest in homes with basements more than quadrupled from August 2019 to August 2020 , according to data from Homes.com. Of course, you don’t need to be in the market for a new home to create the basement you want. As an established homeowner, you may have the option of building out the space in your existing home.

What is refurbishment in construction?

Refurbishment: Making changes to an existing underground structure

image

Existing Cellars

Image
If there is an existing basement or useable cellar space, and you don’t need to do anything structural, the cost of renovating could be around £1,500 per square metre. However, once you start having to increase head heights and lower floors, even within an existing space, costs start to shoot up.
See more on basementconversions.co.uk

Basement Excavation

  • A completely new basement excavation will always be more expensive simply because of the amount of work involved. As well as the cost of removing excess materials, there is the cost of tanking or damp proofing the basement, underpinning walls, rerouting sewers or drains, as well as any problems relating to the area’s topography, such as overcoming difficult ground conditions …
See more on basementconversions.co.uk

Basement Use

  • Another factor to consider is how the room will be used – popular uses for basements include media rooms and home gyms which don’t require much in the way of technical décor. For newly excavated basements that will be used in this way you will be looking around the £2,500 per square metre mark. However, for higher spec basement rooms, such as state of the art kitchens …
See more on basementconversions.co.uk

Additional Extras

  • On top of these basement build costs you have all the extras to consider – planning applications, party wall agreements, building regulations, and whether you require an external access to your new basement conversion. Before getting bogged down in all the detail, it is best to ask for a free quote so you know what your options are. Cool Basements offers free advice and a free initial c…
See more on basementconversions.co.uk

1.Basement conversion costs: an expert guide | Homes

Url:https://www.homesandgardens.com/advice/basement-conversion-costs

26 hours ago  · How much does a basement conversion cost in these circumstances? ‘Remodeling an existing basement into a living space can range in cost from $12,000 to …

2.How Much Does A Basement Conversion Cost? | Cool …

Url:https://www.basementconversions.co.uk/blog/how-much-does-a-basement-conversion-cost.php

32 hours ago  · The running rate for a basement renovation is between $30 and $75 per square foot. The average homeowner spends between $11,000 and $30,000 total. Here are the …

3.Guide to Basement Conversions (Photos, Tips, Costs, …

Url:https://www.newconcept180.com/insights/basement-conversion-guide

29 hours ago The average cost to finish a basement is approximately $18,395, while the average cost to convert a basement into an apartment ranges from $50,000 – $75,000, inclusive of permits, …

4.How Much Does It Cost To Finish A Basement?

Url:https://homeguide.com/costs/cost-to-finish-a-basement

33 hours ago  · 10 Basement Conversion Costs You May Need To Consider. How Much Does A Cellar Conversion Cost And Is It Worth The Investment Labs Building Services. Basement …

5.How Much Does it Cost to Turn a Basement into an …

Url:https://apartmentnotes.com/cost-to-turn-basement-into-apartment/

19 hours ago  · How Much For A Basement Or Cellar Conversion In 2022. Considering A Basement Conversion Here S What It Will Cost. Tanking And Making A Cellar Dry Homebuilding. …

6.How Much Does It Cost to Build a Basement? | Ownerly

Url:https://www.ownerly.com/home-improvement/cost-to-build-a-basement/

31 hours ago

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9