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This is our most frequently asked question, and of course, there is no real
answer because each homeowner has their own ideas. There are many
variables that must be considered before giving an estimate. You can
generally expect, however, that the more features you are requesting, the
more expensive it will be. Solid surface counter tops such as granite or
Corian, wet bars, fireplaces, home theaters, architectural features such as
arches, sauna, etc., will raise the per square foot cost. The more basic the
basement finish, the less the cost. But to ease your mind, for a basement
that is 600-750 sq ft it would cost about $25.00 sq ft for the basics (which
are those things above under products automatically included and
installed) and a 3/4 bath.
Again, this depends on the size and complexity, but to give a rough idea a
600 Sq. Ft. basement takes somewhere between 4-8 weeks.
Yes, It is against all building codes to finish a basement without a permit.
Additionally, having a permit is for your protection and safety. With a
permit, all work must be inspected and must pass inspection, assuring
that everything meets safety codes by your county's building inspectors. It
is also to a homeowner's advantage to have a permit if they are
considering ever selling their home. Potential buyers will require
inspections to ensure all work was done to codes and are needed to have
the addition included in your appraisal. I do not include in my square foot
price the cost of the permit because the cost for the permit will be different
based on the county you live in and the size of the basement. When the
permit is approved I roll over the exact cost to you. Again to ease your
mind, a 1200 square foot basement in Brighton was about $1000;
whereas, a 600 Sq. Ft. basement in Arapahoe County was $146.00.
bathroom?
homes, however, do not have a means of venting up through the house.
No, there is no minimum size. There are, however, minimum areas
required for all of the bathroom fixtures, such as the toilet, shower/tub and
sink.
Yes, if you have a window in that room or are willing to
add one.
ceiling?
The only advantage is the ability to easily run wires from room to room with
a suspended ceiling. The disadvantages outweigh the advantages,
though. Suspended ceilings are unattractive, limit design options, sag, and
discolor over time. I can install this type of ceiling, but you will be much
happier with drywall in the long run.
basement?
Again, there must be at least one window in a basement, and if there is a
bedroom, it must be in the bedroom. All bedrooms must have a window.
There is a code requirement in certain counties that all habitable space
must have a certain percentage of natural light, so be aware of that
requirement. I will inform you if something like this is going to be a
concern for your basement.