Your basement can be more than just a spare room.

The world we live in is fast-paced, and people are aware of the importance of efficiency and making the most of what you have. And in your home, the basement is one of the places you can freely transform to get better and more efficient use of it.

There are plenty of ways and transformations you can do and choose for your basement. You can turn it into a man or woman cave, a game room, personal home theater, and more. However, have you ever thought of turning it into a livable and legal apartment?

Converting your basement into an apartment adds extra living space to your home and helps generate additional income. Even though you aren’t selling, having a home with an apartment in the basement can be advantageous since it boosts property value.

Do you also want to experience some of the benefits of a basement apartment? We’ve got you! Here’s how to turn your basement into a livable and legal apartment.

The Basic Apartment Needs

Dimension and Size Measurements

For a basement apartment to be approved, it has to pass the standard requirement regarding the size and dimension of living spaces. The International Residential Code or IRC requires at least one room with a minimum of 120 square feet and at least 7 feet in height. However, local housing authorities might require higher numbers than what was written in the IRC. Therefore, you should consult your local building codes before you start conversion.

Separate Access Points

Once your basement measurements pass the IRC and local building codes, you should proceed to the next step. And that’s to ensure access points for your prospective tenants. It might be inconvenient if your tenant uses the main house entrance to get in and out of their place.

A separate access point for the basement apartment also ensures safety and ease of evacuation in case an event happens, like a fire or storm. You should also consult fire codes in your area to see if they have additional apartment basement access points requirements.

Windows and Ventilation

Basements mostly don’t have windows and tend to be dark. Since they are usually underground, they are also prone to moisture which can cause problems such as mildew, mold, and wood rot.

Keep your basement well-ventilated to avoid such problems and ensure your tenant has a safe and comfortable living space. Install windows, use dehumidifiers, and more. Check local building codes and see if they have specific requirements regarding windows and ventilation in your area.

Insulation, Electric, and Plumbing

You can’t have your prospective tenant living in an unfinished basement. You should prepare it to make a comfortable and livable area for them. And that’s where you have to start setting up insulation, electrical wiring, and plumbing system for rooms and facilities.

With the help of a basement contractor, you’ll be able to get these all done in no time. Not only that, but they will also be able to arrange and remodel your basement for the required living areas for your prospective tenant, such as bathrooms, bedrooms, and more.

Most basements are known as the laundry room, the storage room, or the scary room. Make it more than just that. With the help of reliable and competent basement contractors, you can make the most of your basement room and get additional income for your household. And once you have all the basic requirements and amenities down pat, you are all set to welcome your new tenant!

What are you waiting for? Call us, and our basement contractors will be glad to help you convert your basement into an apartment!