Basement Renovations

For a standard basement finishing project (framing, drywall, flooring, and bathroom), the typical timeline is 4 to 6 weeks.

If you are building a fully Legal Second Suite (which involves fire separation, separate inspections, and kitchen installation), the process usually takes 6 to 8 weeks. We provide a detailed project schedule before we start, so you always know what is happening in your home.

The main difference is the purpose and the code requirements. A finished basement is simply extra living space for your family (like a rec room, home gym, or guest room).

A legal basement apartment (officially called a Second Dwelling Unit) is a fully self-contained home intended for tenants. To be considered “legal” in Ontario, it must meet stricter Fire Code and Building Code regulations, including fire separation between units, a separate entrance, and specific egress windows. We specialize in building both, ensuring your income suite is fully compliant and insurable.

Yes, absolutely. Under the Ontario Building Code, every bedroom in a basement must have a proper emergency exit (egress window) that is large enough for an adult to climb out of in case of a fire.

This is non-negotiable for safety and is a strict requirement if you are building a legal rental unit. Beyond safety, enlarging your windows brings in natural light, making the space feel less like a basement. Learn more about safety requirements in our guide to egress windows.

Yes, and doing so can massively increase your home’s value. If your current height doesn’t meet the Ontario Building Code minimum (typically requiring around 6’11” for a legal rental suite), we can help.

This process involves safely digging out the basement floor and extending the foundation downwards. It turns a cramped, low-ceiling storage area into a spacious, 8-foot high luxury living space. Read more about this process in our guide to basement height.

It depends on the scope of work, but usually, the answer is yes. If you are finishing a basement from scratch, adding a bathroom, moving walls, or creating a legal rental suite, a building permit is required by your local municipality. Minor cosmetic updates (like replacing carpet with vinyl) might not need one. Don’t worry, Rich Home Inc. handles all the drawings and permit applications for you to ensure everything is code-compliant.

Yes, significantly. A professional finished basement typically offers a 70% to 75% return on investment (ROI) when you sell. If you convert it into a Legal Second Dwelling Unit, the value increases even more because you are selling a “revenue-generating property.” It is one of the smartest renovations you can do in the GTA housing market.