Coleridge Construction Basement Suite FAQ

Basement Renovations – FAQs

We understand that basement renovations and updates can be a large investment and come with questions. Our basement renovation contractors have compiled this list of basement suite FAQs to provide essential guidance on permits, design, timelines, cost, and more.

Still have a question? We’re here to provide answers and insights to ensure your basement renovation is a success. Connect with our friendly renovation team.

Every space is different. Some basements are unfinished while others have bathrooms already built into them, so it will really depend on your basement. All basement suites would require a kitchen, a bathroom, fire-rated protection between both living spaces, proper ventilation, electrical smoke detectors between the two units, proper exits, and in some cases their own electrical panel.  

Yes, to create a legal basement suite you will need to go through the permit process. Our basement renovation contractors can help assist you through this process and handle the entire permit application procedure on your behalf.

You would first need to look and see if your home is zoned for a basement suite.  Most local areas are, but it’s always worth looking it up on the city website. You will want to do this before you start the renovation process or consider buying a home hoping to convert the basement into a suite. If you’re unsure where to look up your home on the city website, let us know. We’d love to help you. 

There are a lot of building codes to take into consideration when turning your basement into a basement suite. This is why we think it’s so important to hire professional basement renovation contractors to help guide you through this process. 

The final cost truly depends on the quality of fixtures and style you want for your basement. If you’re hoping to live in the suite yourself, you might want to add a fireplace or a custom-tiled shower. But if you want to rent it, you might want to consider more cost-effective options.  A good starting point would be $100k for putting a legal basement suite in your home.  

Once we have the plans and permits in place, the actual basement construction process should take around 13 weeks.

You bet. Planning and design are the most critical phases of a successful basement renovation. We have great relationships with designers and drafting teams to help you start the process. We’ll work with you to understand your renovation desires, goals, and priorities.

Some key features for optimal rental capacity would be including a dishwasher, separate washer and dryer, minimal storage area, and a covered outside area.

Yes, not only does your home value go up, but you also fit into a specific selling market that makes your home more appealing to a broader group of people. On top of that, you have now created an income source from your house that can financially benefit you for years to come.   

All safety requirements and building codes are regulated by each municipality. During the construction process, city inspectors are brought in to inspect the process and make sure everything is up to current code.

Three of our biggest suggestions to maximize your potential rental income are building in a high-demand area, maximizing the use of space for bedrooms, and having fixtures and designs that are eye-catching and appealing to future renters. For example, separate washer/dryer, fireplace, dishwasher, custom shower, etc.

At Coleridge Construction we offer a 24-month warranty on all exterior cladding, caulking, windows and doors and a 12-month warranty for all electrical, plumbing, heating, ventilation, and Interior finishing.

READY TO START YOUR RENOVATION?

2 WAYS TO GET STARTED

Try Our Cost CalculatorTell Us About Your Project

Coleridge Construction in Abbotsford is a Fraser Valley home renovation company that also services Chilliwack, Langley, Surrey, White Rock, and Vancouver. From planning to completion, we provide value-added kitchen renovation services plus Bathroom updates, Basement Suite construction, Home Additions, or any other construction project you might need.