Build your basement for rent | The Press

Often unloved and neglected, the basement has several advantages. It can become a very pleasant accommodation if it meets certain conditions. Here are some tips for setting it up properly… while complying with regulations.

Emmanuelle Mozayan-Verschaeve
special cooperation

Effective sound insulation

“Favor the best possible acoustic insulation on the ceiling of the dwelling, in order to reduce noise between the basement and the ground floor,” explains Louise Lajeunesse, project manager at Construction JG Lajeunesse. More specifically, it recommends injection insulation between the joists. “Then you just have to close the ceiling with the gypsum boards and paint them. Performed by a specialized contractor, acoustic insulation injected into 12-inch-thick joists costs between $2.50 and $3 per square foot if holes have to be made in an existing ceiling. If not required, the cost is $1.50 to $1.75 per square foot. A good handyman can carry out this type of work, but it is recommended to call on a contractor to benefit from a guarantee and an impeccable result.

A dry and warm floor

Since humidity can be a major issue in a basement, it is necessary to choose a well-suited floor. Among the best options, vinyl coverings lined with a small rubbery membrane provide excellent comfort underfoot. A heated floor can also make all the difference. “It’s generally more expensive, but it adds value to housing,” says Louise Lajeunesse. The cost of heated floors on a ready-to-cover floor is $10 to $14 per square foot. As for the look, the wood finishes bring a welcome warmth.

Wise design choices

Once the shell of the basement is ready, it’s time for the layout and design choices. Isabelle Morin, general contractor and interior designer for Vision Rénov, in Quebec, gives several tips likely to seduce tenants and increase the value of the property. “It is better to stay in neutral tones to please everyone, and rather pale, to give clarity,” says Isabelle Morin. Also, quality materials make a difference at first glance. Some people are a little reluctant to rent a basement, but they quickly change their minds when they see that the layout is neat. It’s also good to be creative, to think outside the box by proposing unique layouts. For example, we add an interesting space such as a work corner, very popular since the pandemic, by integrating a desk and shelves. »

Optimized brightness

Discreet but effective, recessed lights, chosen in a warm white tone with a power of 3500 Kelvin, provide pleasant ambient light, especially if they are equipped with dimmers. Natural light is ideal, so if possible, do not hesitate to drill additional windows or enlarge existing ones. “You can also put glazed or semi-glazed partitions or glass brick walls to separate two rooms without blocking the light and giving an effect of grandeur. All you have to do is add a curtain if you want to completely isolate the space”, continues Isabelle Morin. Opting for kitchen and bathroom cabinet fronts with a glossy finish that reflect light can also give a nice visual effect.

Provide storage and dress windows

Consider creating a closet in the bedroom, storage in the bathroom and, if possible, take advantage of corners to incorporate lockers and shelves so that the tenant can put their things there without cluttering their space with too much furniture. You can also dress the windows with blinds or canvases, to avoid the tenant having to buy them, and bring more warmth to the accommodation. He can always add curtains if he wishes, but the most important thing will be done.

Additional services

Finally, Isabelle Morin suggests offering attractive benefits to the tenant, such as appliances, free internet and heating, access to the family swimming pool, to the yard or even creating a terrace space just for him.

Good to know

Renting your basement generates a significant income, which makes it possible to absorb part of the mortgage, but if you have to request financing from your banking institution, be aware that it will only take into account 50% of the rental income, because it considers that there may be defaults in payment or periods during which the accommodation will be vacant.

Rules to follow

“There are several elements that you don’t necessarily think of, but which are required by municipalities when you want to rent your basement. Each city has its own regulations and it is important, before undertaking anything, to check its conditions”, informs Louise Lajeunesse, project manager at Construction JG Lajeunesse.

Generally, municipalities require:

– That the surface area of ​​the dwelling be smaller than that of the owners’ dwelling (about 30% less), including the mechanical room if the tenant has access to it.

– A minimum ceiling height of seven feet, ideally eight.

– Windows large enough for a person to get out, including those in the bedrooms.

– Smoke alarms, including in each bedroom.

In addition to these obligations, it makes sense:

– Create an independent entrance to ensure everyone’s privacy.

– To install plumbing independent of that of the main house to simplify access.

– To have an independent air exchanger, in particular to facilitate filter maintenance.

– To install two electricity meters, in order to determine the consumption of each one. If the rent includes electricity, you can deduct the charges for your tenant’s meter on your tax return. Don’t forget to provide the correct amperage for appliances.

– To ask your tenant to take out insurance for their personal effects. For your part, you will need to inform your insurer that you plan to rent your basement in order to pay for coverage that includes a tenant.

– If necessary, drill new windows to maximize natural light.