Basement bathrooms, bars, theaters and in-law suites
Homeowners who want a written quote and permits pulled
Not a fit
Small repairs or handyman jobs
Supply-only or DIY material quotes
Active flooding (call a water damage company first)
Choosing a contractor
How to choose a basement remodeling contractor
How do I choose a basement remodeling contractor?
Choose a basement remodeling contractor by confirming their license with your state or county, then comparing written estimates that describe the same work. The FTC says a written estimate should list the work, the materials, a completion date and the price.
Basements need extra questions. Ask how they check for moisture before framing and how they handle egress for a bedroom. Ask who pulls the permits. The FTC lists a contractor who asks you to get the permits as a warning sign.
What are common basement remodel mistakes?
The most common basement remodel mistakes come from rushing past water, code and access. Each one below means tearing out finished work later.
Finishing over walls that still get wet
Adding a bedroom with no egress window
Closing walls before the rough-in inspections
Sealing shutoff valves behind drywall
Moving in without a radon test
How do I prepare for a free on-site estimate?
Prepare for a free on-site estimate by bringing a rough plan, a budget range and the history of any water in the basement. The contractor can then price your real project at the first visit.
Fill out the form and we'll be in touch. Bring your ideas, measurements and budget to the estimate. Review the written price and schedule before you decide.
A list of the rooms you want
Your budget range and target finish date
When and where water has shown up
Where the panel, water heater and sewer line sit
Any HOA rules on outside work
Should I hire a general contractor or a basement specialist?
Hire a basement specialist for a full finish or remodel, because below-grade work brings its own risks. Moisture, egress, low ceilings and drains below the sewer line come up on almost every job.
A general contractor who mostly builds kitchens or additions can still do good work in a basement. Ask to see basements they finished and how they handled those four issues. Either way, one contractor should run the framers, electricians, plumbers and drywall crews under one written quote.
Straight answers. Ask your contractor anything else at the free estimate.
How much does it cost to finish a basement?
It depends on size, rooms and finishes. A typical full finish in metro Atlanta runs $45,000 to $80,000. An on-site estimate gives you a price for your layout.
What can I use my basement for?
A family room, home office, gym or guest suite. Bathrooms and bars can make the space more useful. Bedrooms need a code-compliant emergency exit.
How do I get started?
Fill out the form and we'll be in touch. Include your project type and ZIP code so we can follow up about your basement.
Do I need a permit to finish my basement?
Usually, yes. New framing, wiring and plumbing need approval from your local building department. Include permits and inspections in the project plan.
How long does a basement remodel take?
The schedule depends on the layout, permits and trade work. Confirm the start date, inspection stages and completion date in your written quote.
Do I have to go ahead after the estimate?
No. Review the scope, finishes and written price before you decide.
