Finishing Your Basement: Code, Cost, Comfort
Finishing your basement is one of the most impactful ways to increase livable space and boost the value of your home—especially in growing areas like Durham Region. Whether you’re planning to add a guest suite, a family rec room, or a legal income unit, it’s important to do it right from the start. At Henley Contracting, we help homeowners in Oshawa, Clarington, Kawartha Lakes, Muskoka, and surrounding areas turn unfinished basements into comfortable, code-compliant spaces designed to last.
H2: Egress Windows, Moisture Protection & Layout
One of the most overlooked (yet critical) elements of finishing a basement is egress window compliance. In Ontario, building code requires that any basement room intended for sleeping must have an egress window—large enough to be used as a fire escape. This isn’t just about safety; it’s a legal requirement enforced by Durham Region building departments and your local municipality. We work with homeowners to size, install, and frame egress windows that meet Ontario Building Code standards and fit your design.
Another major factor is moisture management. Before finishing any basement, we thoroughly inspect the foundation for signs of water infiltration, and we recommend interior or exterior waterproofing where needed. In Clarington, for example, permit inspectors often require a drainage plan if you’re altering basement flooring or foundation wall treatments. Adding sump pump systems, vapor barriers, or wall insulation designed for below-grade spaces prevents long-term damage and improves energy efficiency.
Basement layout planning also affects usability and code compliance. Whether you’re adding a media room, bathroom, or home gym, you’ll need to consider ductwork, ceiling heights, plumbing rough-ins, and access to utility panels. We help homeowners align their goals with practical layouts that support future flexibility and meet zoning requirements. If you’re considering a legal secondary suite, we’ll guide you through Durham’s approval process and help secure all necessary permits and inspections.
Understanding the Cost of a Basement Renovation
Basement renovations in Durham typically range from $50–$100 per square foot, depending on the features, finishes, and whether the space will include a bathroom or kitchen. At Henley Contracting, we provide detailed, transparent estimates up front—so you understand how your investment breaks down.
Basic renovations might include framing, drywall, flooring, and electrical upgrades. Mid-range projects may also feature a bathroom, built-ins, or wet bar. Full conversions for legal in-law suites or rentals involve more complex systems—separate entrances, additional HVAC requirements, and fire separation—which we manage from design through final inspection.
We also help clients explore rebates or financing options, including energy-efficiency incentives when insulation and HVAC upgrades are part of the plan. Each municipality within Durham—such as Ajax, Pickering, or Scugog—has specific permit and inspection processes. We take care of these steps for you, aligning your goals with local regulations and long-term value.
Comfort Starts with Smart Construction Choices
Great basements aren’t just beautiful—they’re built for year-round comfort. Our team uses advanced subfloor systems, noise-reducing insulation, and lighting plans that make basements feel like main-floor living. Instead of cold, dark, and echoey, we create warm, quiet, energy-efficient environments your family will actually want to spend time in.
If you’re including a guest room or home office, we recommend zoned heating systems or mini-split HVAC units for custom climate control. Durable, low-maintenance flooring like vinyl plank or engineered hardwood offers a polished look while resisting moisture and wear.
Finishing your basement is also an opportunity to improve your home’s functionality—storage solutions, laundry space upgrades, or even workout rooms can all be built into the plan.
Finishing your basement the right way requires more than just drywall and flooring—it takes expert planning, code knowledge, and a builder who understands how to transform underground space into something exceptional. At Henley Contracting, we manage basement renovations from start to finish in Durham Region, handling permits, waterproofing, layout design, and long-term comfort.
Ready to unlock the full potential of your basement? Contact us today to book a consultation, and let’s turn your basement into the most functional and enjoyable part of your home.