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 St Louis basement remodelers
Recent success stories from people in the St Louis area.
Kent A. L.
Rick is an especially responsive and thoughtful contractor. His team is first rate; friendly, industrious, and exceptionally competent. In the execution of my bathroom, he and his staff came up with a creative solution to the shower drain that made a more dramatic and seamless space. He was very accommodating to changes and additions to the construction process. When my personal subcontractor for my floor refinishing suddenly balked at the job, He had his subcontractor come in. That individual did, I believe, an even better job than the person I initially selected. The final product is terrific and has exceeded all my expectations. My entire experience with Rick was professional and pleasant. I most heartily recommend Rick for any home remodeling project you might have. I am looking forward to having him work on my next phase in the coming months!
Fitzsimmons & Associates
Connie L.
Very efficient, good quality material to choose from, great workers and friendly assistants!
3 Rivers Solid Surface & Remodeling
Patrick O.
Mark is a true craftsman. He was able to take our worn, weather beaten, 100 year old front door and bring it back to life – it’s truly stunning. In our foyer he was able to match existing baseboards and chair rail perfectly and install that baseboard over a rather uneven slate floor. We also worked with mark to install a new “mini-crown” above our powder room door. Because none of the local milling shops carried an exact match (and we didn’t want to pay to create a custom pattern) we were able to work with Mark to find a more economical solution that was close enough to the original – I suspect most guests in our home will be none the wiser. Overall Mark was easy to work with, communicated clearly, and produced quality work – I would happily work with him again.
CCR Remodeling & Woodworking LLC
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Nearby basement remodeling contractors in and around St Louis