At FinishedBasement.ca, most basement renovations are completed in just 2-3 weeks — thanks to our streamlined in-house process. Unlike companies that rely on subcontractors (which often causes delays), we use our own trusted team for every step of the renovation.

We begin with a free in-home consultation and fixed-price quote. Once approved, we handle permits, inspections, and design work in parallel, cutting down unnecessary wait times. When construction starts, our crew follows a precise daily timeline to stay on schedule — even while accommodating city inspections.

Of course, the exact timeline can vary slightly based on the complexity of your basement design (e.g., adding a bathroom or second suite). But rest assured, we never drag projects out — your new basement will be finished on time, on budget, and to code.

We’ve built over 3,000 basements in the GTA, including Vaughan, and we know how to get the job done efficiently — without sacrificing quality.

Yes, in most cases, a permit is required to renovate your basement in Vaughan — especially if the project involves structural changes, plumbing, electrical work, or adding a legal basement apartment. The City of Vaughan requires permits to ensure your renovation complies with the Ontario Building Code, fire safety regulations, and zoning bylaws.

Some cosmetic updates, like painting or replacing flooring, may not require a permit. However, adding walls, bedrooms, bathrooms, or separate entrances will almost certainly require one. If your renovation involves creating a second suite, additional fire separation, egress windows, and smoke alarms must be installed as part of the permit process.

At FinishedBasement.ca, we handle all permitting and inspections as part of our full-service renovation process. This ensures your basement is legal, safe, and up to code.

Yes, Vaughan allows legal basement apartments (also known as second units) in many residential areas, but they must meet specific requirements under the Ontario Building Code and local zoning bylaws.

To qualify as a legal unit, your basement must have adequate ceiling height (usually at least 6’5”), proper fire separation between units, a secondary means of egress (such as a separate entrance or egress window), and its own kitchen and bathroom. Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms must also be interconnected between the main unit and the basement apartment.

You’ll need a building permit, and possibly a zoning review, depending on your neighborhood. Parking requirements and lot size can also influence eligibility.

FinishedBasement.ca has extensive experience designing and building legal basement apartments in Vaughan. We guide homeowners through each requirement, ensuring the space meets all codes and inspections pass on the first try.

The cost of finishing or renovating a basement in Vaughan typically ranges from $35,000 to $75,000, depending on the size of the space, layout complexity, and features you want included.

Basic layouts with a bedroom, living area, and bathroom tend to fall at the lower end of the range, while high-end builds with custom kitchens, gyms, bars, or legal basement apartments are at the higher end.

Key cost factors include:

• Square footage

• Number of rooms (e.g., bedrooms, bathrooms)

• Electrical and plumbing requirements

• Custom finishes (flooring, cabinetry, lighting)

• Permit and inspection fees

• Separate entrance construction (if needed)

Unlike many contractors, FinishedBasement.ca offers fixed pricing so you know the full cost before we start. This includes design, materials, labor, permits, and inspections — with no hidden fees or surprise charges.

Yes, finishing your basement can significantly increase the value of your home. On average, a professionally renovated basement can offer a return on investment (ROI) between 70% and 100%, depending on the features added and market conditions.

In Vaughan’s competitive real estate market, a finished basement can set your home apart by adding livable square footage, appealing to buyers who need extra space for family, work-from-home setups, or rental income. If the renovation includes a legal second unit, it can further increase value by providing an income stream for potential buyers.

Aside from financial ROI, a finished basement also offers practical lifestyle value — whether it’s for entertaining, working, or accommodating extended family. It’s one of the most cost-effective ways to expand your living space without adding an expensive home extension.

Basements can be transformed into nearly any type of living space, depending on your needs and the square footage available. Common basement room types include:

• Bedrooms and guest suites

• Full bathrooms or powder rooms

• Home offices or study areas

• Home gyms or yoga studios

• Entertainment rooms or theatres

• Game rooms or kids’ play zones

• Legal rental apartments or in-law suites

• Laundry and storage rooms

• Wine cellars or wet bars

The layout and design will depend on your priorities. For example, if you plan to rent the space, a separate entrance, kitchen, and full bath will be essential. For families, combining a media room with play space and storage is often ideal.

A good basement renovation starts with a clear plan that considers function, safety, and comfort. At FinishedBasement.ca, we customize every project based on how the homeowner wants to use the space.

Moisture is a common concern in basements, especially in older Vaughan homes. To prevent mold and water issues, a proper basement renovation starts with moisture assessment and waterproofing solutions.

We evaluate the foundation for cracks, inspect for signs of water intrusion, and confirm that exterior drainage systems (like weeping tiles and grading) are functioning correctly. Internally, we use moisture-resistant insulation, subfloor systems with vapor barriers, and materials specifically designed for below-grade environments.

Proper ventilation and dehumidification are also key. Our renovation plans include solutions like bathroom exhaust fans, sealed sump pump systems, and optional HRV (Heat Recovery Ventilation) units to regulate humidity.

With the right planning and materials, a finished basement can stay dry, healthy, and mold-free year-round.

Yes, all of our basement renovation work comes with a comprehensive 5-year warranty. This covers workmanship and materials used during the project, giving you peace of mind that your investment is protected.

The warranty applies to structural elements, drywall, flooring, cabinetry, and installed systems (excluding natural wear-and-tear or owner-caused damage). If any issues arise during this period due to installation or build errors, we’ll make it right promptly.

Because we use our own in-house team (not subcontractors), we’re fully accountable for the quality of work from start to finish. We also ensure that all materials used are high quality and sourced from reputable suppliers.

Our transparent process includes a final walkthrough to confirm satisfaction, and we remain available for support long after the project is complete.

Yes, most Vaughan homeowners continue living in their home during the renovation. Our team takes great care to minimize disruption and keep the rest of your home clean and functional.

Because the work is contained in the basement, there’s typically no interference with your main floor living spaces. We use protective coverings on floors and stairways, clean daily, and ensure that dust and noise are kept to a minimum. Our crew follows a set schedule and maintains respectful communication throughout the process.

If your basement has a separate entrance, even better — we can complete most of the project without entering your main home at all. This is especially helpful for households with kids, seniors, or people working from home.

Unlike general contractors who work on everything from kitchens to roofing, FinishedBasement.ca focuses exclusively on basement renovations — and has done so for over 20 years.

Our specialization means we understand the unique building code requirements, design challenges, and moisture control techniques needed to finish a basement properly. We’ve completed more than 2,000 basements across the GTA using a streamlined, efficient process that eliminates delays and reduces costs.

We use our own full-time crew — not subcontractors — and we offer a fixed-price contract, a 3-week completion timeline, and a 5-year warranty. Every project includes a showroom visit, professional 3D design, and permit management.

Homeowners choose us for our speed, transparency, and reputation. With over 140 verified 5-star reviews, we’ve built lasting relationships across Vaughan by delivering consistent results — on time and on budget.

Getting started is easy. Just book a free estimate — we’ll visit your home, assess your space, and discuss your ideas. Within days, you’ll receive a detailed fixed-price quote and a custom 3D design. Then, visit our showroom to select materials and finishes with the help of our design consultants. Once approved, we’ll handle permits, planning, and construction from start to finish. Most projects are completed in just 3 weeks. Whether you’re looking to build a legal apartment, a personal gym, or a cozy guest suite, we make the process simple, fast, and enjoyable. Let’s bring your basement vision to life — starting today.