What Does a Basement Remodel Cost in DC?

Brad Wilson • Jan 09, 2024

How much does a Washington DC Basement Renovation Cost?

In Washington DC, making the decision to finish or remodel your basement is a great way to update your home, increase value, and add livable space that fits your needs. Like any other renovation project, basements can get expensive. That’s why using the right design build contractor is key to creating a safe, efficient, and legal basement in the District of Columbia.


When renovating a basement space, there are code requirements to sift through before the possibilities of what to do with the space can become a reality. These necessary permits and inspections apply to basement remodeling in DC to ensure that new basements are safe. Ceiling height, points of egress, and fire sprinklers are just a few factors that may need to be addressed while you are in the early stages of designing your new living space. Depending on the scope and complexity of your project, you will need to hire an architect, engineer, and/or contractor to ensure that your basement meets these safety and quality standards.


Determining how you want to use your new found space is also important in determining the price. For example, creating a finished play area for the kids to go when you need some time alone in the rest of the house will not require as much infrastructure expansion as making the decision to turn the space into an ADU (click here to read our blog on Accessory Dwelling Units).  Obviously, adding a bathroom or kitchenette will require plumbing that other uses wouldn’t need. Some of the hidden costs like concrete trenching, plumbing groundwork, and earth removal become necessary with the addition of plumbing scope. Adding more appliances or HVAC units will need more power from your electric panel that’s probably already pretty full. Upgrades to utilities like this can result in waiting for approvals and engaging with utility work that adds time and ultimately money to your project. Be sure you are clear on how you want the space to work for you and what that means for work that will need to happen in your existing space, and your budget.


Basement work can be tricky so make sure you hire someone with experience that you can trust to take all the necessary steps for a sustainable build. 


The cost of a basement remodel in DC depends on many factors, like the size, scope, and design involved in your project. The average cost of a basement remodel in Washington, DC usually ranges from $75,000 to $250,000, depending on these factors mentioned above and many others that were not. This is just an estimate based on our experience with recent projects in the area and may not reflect your specific situation. To get a more accurate quote contact us today and schedule a time to discuss your ideas with one of our PACE design professionals. 


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