Answers to commonly asked questions from the experts on HomeGuide.
How much does it cost to remodel a basement?
An average basement remodel costs $25 to $65 per square foot or $12,500 to $37,500 total with labor, depending on the size and scope of the project. Common basement remodeling jobs include:
Adding or upgrading a bathroom
Turning an unused space into a bedroom
Adding a home theater room
Adding a basement kitchen
How much value does a basement remodel add?
Remodeling a basement has a 65% to 70% return on investment (ROI). The exact value a basement remodel has will depend on the changes made and the square footage.
When selling a home, the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) separates the above ground square footage from below grade square footage. Above ground spaces are worth about twice as much as lower-level rooms.
How long does a basement remodel take?
A basement remodel takes 3 to 8 weeks on average, depending on the size and changes made. The following factors may increase the project timeline:
Materials on backorder
Demolition
Structural changes
Mold or water damage mitigation
What’s the difference between remodeling, renovating & finishing a basement?
Some use the terms remodeling, renovation, and finishing interchangeably, but they're technically different from each other:
Remodeling means to change a room's appearance or function. Common remodeling jobs include adding rooms or walls.
Renovating means to restore a space to its original condition, not changing structures or adding rooms.
Finishing a basement means converting it from bare concrete to a livable space with walls, windows, and floors.
Do you need a permit to remodel a basement?
Yes, you need a permit to remodel a basement. Building permits cost$500 to $2,000 when structural changes are involved. Permits make sure your changes are done properly and up to code. Remodeling without a permit is risky and can negatively impact your home's resale value.
How do I hire a basement remodeling contractor?
First, search our list of basement contractors, then:
Compare multiple estimates from companies with 5+ years of experience.
Browse reviews on HomeGuide and Google.
Confirm that they're licensed, insured, and bonded.
Beware of the lowest quotes, which can result in low-quality work.
Ask for a written estimate and contract before work starts.
Only make the final payment after the project is completed.
What questions should I ask basement remodeling contractors?
Ask these questions to help find the best basement contractor:
How much experience do you have with remodeling basements?
Can I see pictures of past remodeling projects?
How long will this job take?
Do you offer a warranty for your work?
Does your estimate include materials, labor, and cleanup?
Will you hire any subcontractors?
What unexpected costs can come up for this kind of project?
Will you handle any necessary building permits?
Reviews for Atlanta basement remodelers
Recent success stories from people in the Atlanta area.
Mary Alice S.
Good and timely communication. Great work ethic and knowledge. Fair price. Thank you for your service !
Sauvage Landscaping LLC
Kathleen S.
I had a list of items that needed to be done. Josh and William completed every one of them. I am so happy to have found them. I am already thinking of what needs to be done next. What I really appreciated is that if they can repair it instead of replacing they will.
Incredible remodeling
Donald G.
Did a great job. Tuesday, I made a request, Wednesday, received an estimate, Thursday, job complete and 120% happy. Bottom of my kitchen sink cabinet done.
Mostly floors and home remodeling
Fredrick E.
Home Improvement was easy to navigate and the service was speedy.
Rodney was extremely customer friendly and he went above and beyond to work with my schedule!
A1 service all around.
Reliable Home Improvement
Tony H.
The work was good. He showed up as promised. The price was as quoted. He was professional and courteous. It took a little longer than expected, but I would definitely recommend the company.
TRIMELOGIC USA
Kenneth H.
Punctual, gets it done and clean up afterwards. Great attitude
D&M Improvements
James S.
Excellent company! They got the job quickly and efficiently.
Elevate Construction LLC
Nicollete B.
Paint or Stain Paneling
They did a wonderful job, very professional, they paid great attention to detail, and if there were any issues, they fixed them right away!
Paint Champs
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Nearby basement remodeling contractors in and around Atlanta