Basement Remodel Checklist for Greater Cleveland Homeowners

How to Use This Checklist

Basements have the potential to be the most dynamic space in your home, housing a gym, full bathroom, kitchentte, and a small office—or any combination of spaces that your family needs most.

Print Out the Checklist

That's right, we're going old school. Print out this checklist so you can jot down notes on the back and check off what you've already covered. It's a great visual guide when working with your designer. Seeing what's checked off and what's not will help your designer know exactly what's going to need more consideration and what's already underway in the brainstorming process.

X Out What You Don't Need

As you're looking over this checklist, keep in mind that you may not use some sections. For example, your basement remodel plans might not include a bathroom (although we strongly suggest a bathroom for all uses). Or maybe a home theater has no place in your guest suite basement remodeling plans. Easy fix: just X it out! 

Get Creative!

This checklist is designed as an overview and a jumping-off point to get your creative juices flowing. As you go through it item by item, use online design boards (like Pinterest or Houzz) to gather your visual ideas.

This prepares you for a really efficient design meeting with your design-build team, setting your project up to be a huge success!

Step-by-Step Basement Renovation Checklist: Where to Start 

Basements offer endless potential, but where should you start? Here’s how to get started on your basement renovation checklist:

Purpose

Ask yourself, what do you want from this space? Is it a game room, guest suite, or home gym? The answer will help guide the rest of the process. Also, keep in mind that your available square feet can be pretty large in a basement, giving you much more room to play with and possibly offering space for multiple uses. 

Layout

Consider how the space flows. Do you need separate rooms or an open-concept area? You’ll also want to think about where the bathroom or wet bar might go.

Lighting

Basements tend to be dim, so think about incorporating recessed lights, lamps, or even egress windows to brighten things up. Because basements don't typically get much natural light, invest in smart light bulbs to change the color over the course of the day. No, it's not necessarily part of the remodeling process, but a good tip for setting your mind at ease about weird lighting worries in your basement. 

Storage

Are you still fighting for storage space upstairs? This is your chance to add built-in shelves or hidden closets to keep things organized. Go all out with a full wall of built-ins that consist of a mix of open shelving and cabinets. It's a great addition for keeping backup linens, game consoles, and games—and offers the best hide-and-seek spots in the house. 

Accessibility

Don’t forget about long-term features. Residential elevators have come a long way in terms of style. Hide your elevator behind an unassuming closet door for a cohesive style. You can even add wallpaper and wood accents that coordinate with the rest of your home to keep your elevator from looking industrial.

Other accessibility features? Wider doorways, lower countertops, non-slip surfaces, and ADA bathroom features keep your basement accessible to every age and ability level. 

Smart Features

Most homeowners know by now just how sweet the smart life can be. Convenience, safety, energy efficiency—smart features do it all. From thermostats and in-floor radiant heating to kitchen appliances and lighting, smart options are gaining in functionality and affordability. Your designer is a great go-to in what's new, dependable, and popular. 

A Note About the Difference Between Finishing Your Basement vs. Remodeling

Wondering what the difference is between refinishing and remodeling? Refinishing is all about making an unfinished space functional by adding walls, insulation, and flooring.

Remodeling, on the other hand, involves more extensive changes—like installing a bathroom or dividing the space into rooms. Both have their own basement finishing checklist, but knowing which one you need will help keep your project on track.

What Should be Included in a Basement Remodel? The Basics:

Designing your basement, like picking out finishes and thinking about how you'll use your new space, surely is the fun part, but the real success of a basement remodel comes down to the basics that make it happen.  Thinking about electricity and plumbing might not be as exciting as tile and paint colors, but they're pretty important.

Here are the nuts and bolts of a basement remodel that should definitely be addressed early on in the design process: 

Electricity

When planning your basement remodel, don't skimp on electrical needs. Think beyond the basics—where will your entertainment system go? Will you need outlets for a mini-fridge in your bar? How many outlets does a guest suite need? Are you planning for a laundry closet? Some appliances have different voltage needs, and you'll need to plan for that. 

Proper planning ensures you have enough outlets and power for lighting, heating, and all your devices. Plus, if you're adding a bathroom while refinishing your basement, you’ll need the right wiring for lighting and vent fans. Being proactive avoids expensive rewiring later.

Plumbing 

Thinking about adding a bathroom, kitchen, or bar? Extending plumbing lines is essential in any basement finishing checklist. Planning early helps you avoid costly changes later, especially if you're adding an in-law suite or entertaining space.

A skilled basement renovation contractor will ensure all plumbing is properly planned and extended, making your basement functional and fabulous.

Natural Light

Basements are notorious for being dim, so bringing in natural light should be a top priority and require some creative problem-solving.

Skylights may not be an option, but installing long vertical windows can brighten the space. Plus, if you're planning to use the space as a bedroom, basement renovation ideas must include a bedroom window for both legal and safety reasons.

Exterior Exit

If you’re planning to use your basement as a guest suite, in-law suite, or even a rental, you’ll need a separate exterior exit. Not only does it add safety, but it also makes the space feel more independent and private.

Having a door to the outside creates a convenient escape route, making the basement feel less like, well, a basement and more like its own cozy apartment. You can even plan for a parking space or outdoor hangout spot right outside. 

What Mistakes Should You Avoid When Planning Your Basement Remodel?

What's worse than buyer's remorse? Not a whole lot, especially with such a large investment. Keep these "don'ts" in mind while you're planning your basement remodel:

Ignoring Code Requirements

Cutting corners on building codes for plumbing, electrical, or windows can result in safety issues, fines, or having to redo work later.

Proper egress windows are legally required for any bedroom, ensuring a safe escape in emergencies. Make sure you’re working with a licensed basement renovation contractor to ensure everything meets local regulations, avoiding expensive setbacks down the road.

Poor Layout Planning

Skimping on the layout planning can lead to a dysfunctional space. Think carefully about how you’ll use each area of your basement, whether it’s for storage, entertaining, or living space. Don’t forget to plan for storage, outlets, lighting, and traffic flow. With a great plan, you’ll avoid cramped spaces or awkward layouts.

Forgetting About Soundproofing

Basements often serve as entertainment hubs—think game rooms or home theaters. Without soundproofing, noise can travel through the house, disrupting the upper levels. Consider soundproofing the ceiling and walls to create a peaceful environment upstairs while you enjoy the new space downstairs.

Using part of your basement for a home office? Avoid video call disruptions and added frustrations to your busy workday by keeping the noise out with solid soundproofing. 

Underestimating Your Budget

Remodeling often comes with unexpected expenses, especially in basements where you might uncover moisture issues or outdated wiring. Include a buffer (around 10-20%) in your budget for any surprise costs. Being financially prepared ensures you don’t have to compromise on quality halfway through the project.

A knowledgeable and experienced design-build team will build an allowance into your estimate for those just-in-case situations. 

Not Planning for Future Use

Your needs may change over time, so consider how the basement could evolve with your lifestyle. Today’s playroom could be tomorrow’s home office, gym, or in-law suite. Keeping future flexibility in mind during the planning phase allows the space to adapt to new needs without extensive remodeling down the road.

Going Too Trendy

While it’s tempting to dive into the latest design trends, overly trendy choices can quickly feel outdated. Stick to timeless, classic designs that can stand the test of time, especially for big-ticket items like flooring and cabinetry. Save trendy elements for accents, which are easier (and less expensive) to update later.

Even tile, mirrors, light fixtures, and hardware can be opportunities for indulging in today's hot trends if you're okay with a little investment down the line.

You're Ready to Take the Next Step!

You’re now equipped with everything you need to tackle your basement remodel like a pro! With this checklist in hand, you’ll be ready to turn your basement into a fully functional, stylish space—whether it's a cozy family room, guest suite, or home gym.

Avoid the common mistakes, plan smart, and get excited for the endless possibilities. Ready to get started? Reach out to us at Payne & Tompkins Design - Renovations, and let's make that basement the coolest spot in your home!

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