If you are looking for more living space in your home, renovating your basement may be the perfect solution. But before you begin, make sure your basement is a good candidate for renovation.

Adding new living space to your home may be cost-effective and relatively easy if you have a full-height basement and if your basement is dry and sound. But, if your basement is not full-height, or has some moisture or other issues, these problems should be corrected before your renovations begin.

When considering a basement renovation, the first step is to inspect the basement for possible problems and include the costs of fixing them in your renovation budget. Potential problems could include:

1. Periodic or permanent signs of moisture or mould on the floors or walls
2. Persistent musty odour in clothing and other items stored in the basement
3. Cracks as wide as a pencil, or that appear to widen or shrink, in the walls or floor
4. Having to stoop to avoid bumping your head on a beam or duct

As a next step, consider these important issues during the planning stage of your basement renovation:

Obtaining a building permit – It is always recommended that you consult with the authority that has local jurisdiction (City or Regional District, for example) regarding requirements for a building permit. The building permit process ensures that the changes you are planning will meet the minimum health, safety and zoning standards.

Repairing any moisture sources – A damp or wet basement is not a suitable living space, so dampness or leaks in the floor or walls must be corrected. Potential causes of moisture include:   

• Cracks in the foundation
• Poor drainage resulting in water seeping through the floor
• Eavestroughs and downspouts that fail to direct the water away form the foundation
• A grade of the yard that does not slope away from the house
• Window wells that collect snow and water

 Make sure you have an adequate floor drain and consider adding a sump pump and backwater valve if they are not in place already.

Once potential basement moisture has been identified and any problems are resolved, consider the heating and ventilation system. Two common problems in basements are mould growth and stale air, which are caused by insufficient air movement and excessive humidity, respectively. Whether your home has electric baseboards or a forced-air heating system, it is important to plan for proper air circulation throughout the year. A dehumidifier can help to limit excessive humidity as well.

Lastly, safety is another important aspect of a basement renovation. Smoke alarms are required on all floors of a residence and near bedrooms, and should be interconnected. Installing a carbon monoxide (CO) detector near a gas fireplace or furnace is a wise move as well. Windows are an important emergency escape in many basements, as well as a source of ventilation and natural light. Be sure to check local building codes for specific window-size requirements in basements. Electrical outlets and fixtures must be installed and inspected by a certified electrician and the number and location of electrical outlets and fixtures is regulated by the electrical code.

Careful preplanning will ensure a smoother basement renovation. And that can translate into the creation of extra living space in your home that can be enjoyed comfortably for many years.

--source: CMHC / Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation

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