This extensive project involved converting an unfinished basement into a full, legal two bedroom rental unit, along with several exterior updates to enhance curb appeal and safety.

Problems

The project addressed major structural, safety, and exterior issues to create a compliant and functional rental unit:

• Unused Space: The large, unfinished basement needed to be maximized for both living and storage space.

  
  

• Legal & Safety Requirements: Required below ground excavation, a separate entrance, fire rated doors, and egress windows to meet local code for a legal rental.

  
  

• Access Challenges: The homeowner needed an internal private access route to the basement, while the tenant needed a private, separate outdoor entrance.

  
  

• Exterior Deterioration: The garage door paint was peeling, the driveway was cracked, and the front steps and exterior doors needed updating.

Solution

The scope involved careful planning to integrate complex structural changes with quality interior finishes:

• Basement Layout: Created a two bedroom unit with spacious closets, a full bathroom, a laundry area, and dedicated functional storage spaces.

  
  

• Legal Compliance & Safety: Installed fire rated doors and egress/escape windows.

  
  

• Separate Entrance: Excavated the side of the house to create a private basement entrance, including a safety railing and a storm door.

  
  

• Privacy & Access: Installed a private gate and extended the existing fence for a separate side entrance giving access to the backyard. A new private staircase from the main floor to the basement was built for the homeowner's sole use.

  
  

• Interior Finish: Installed an open concept kitchen with all appliances, and soundproofing in the ceiling to ensure tenant privacy.

  
  

• Exterior Renewal: Sealed the driveway with asphalt, repainted the front door, garage door, and side door, and applied no-slip/grip paint to the front steps for safety. New outdoor lighting and address signage were installed.

Key Features

The renovated space includes custom design elements that add value and function for both the tenant and the homeowner:

• Custom built feature wall with a TV and Fireplace unit.

  
  

• Custom built storage in the bathroom.

  
  

• Custom built coat hanger near the entrance.

  
  

• Extended side entrance with a private gate.

In Conclusion

This comprehensive renovation successfully transformed an unfinished basement into a high quality, legal two bedroom rental apartment. The project significantly increased the property value and provided the client with a new source of rental income, all while improving the home’s curb appeal and safety features.