Basement permits, new or already finished.

New basement developments

Developing a basement needs a building permit. Electrical, plumbing and gas work need their own permits, usually pulled by the licensed trades doing the work. We prepare the floor plan and permit package and can coordinate with your trades.

Basements finished without a permit

This is common, and it often comes up when a home is being sold or refinanced. The permit is applied for after the fact, based on drawings of what was built. Inspectors may ask to see work that is now behind finished walls, so plan for the possibility of opening some areas.

Things that can affect your basement permit

• Bedrooms need a window large enough to serve as an emergency exit.
• Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms must meet current requirements.
• Older homes. Asbestos forms or reports may be required, especially for homes built before 1990.
• A separate living unit is a secondary suite, which has its own requirements. See secondary suites.

What we prepare

• Basement floor plan
• Notes on egress windows, alarms and fire safety
• The permit application, submitted on your behalf