Properly finishing a basement archived

cleg

Dec 29, 2014 at 4:23am

Wondering if anyone has done their own basement work. I have done it before, have the proper tools, etc. I would want a contractor to do the electric and the opening of a window for egress - but I would design, frame, and finish. Has anyone dealt with the Maplewood code folks on DIY projects? Are they receptive to walking you through the permitting process? When I did my basement in Philly I just drew out a very basic design and they were ok - nothing remotely like architects drawings.

I want to add some space to the house - but, more than anything, I want a project to work on.

terminator3

Dec 29, 2014 at 1:07pm

the maplewood town code officials will work with you

knowlton

Dec 29, 2014 at 1:12pm

It's fine if you do it on your own. Keep in mind that if all of your walls are finished (dry wall) they will be considered extra rooms and you will be taxed on it. I have one finished room in my basement, except for one wall. During the reevaluation, I was told that they wouldn't count it for tax purposes.

I would check with the town, as you may not need a permit.

goheels

Dec 29, 2014 at 1:44pm

I wanted to do some on my own, but I believe our basement tiles have asbestos (12"x12")

seaweed

Dec 29, 2014 at 3:58pm

@goheels you can get them tested to be sure, usually 9x9s had asbestos, but 12x12s could as well..

krnl

Dec 29, 2014 at 4:17pm

terminator3 said:
the maplewood town code officials will work with you

That is Bob Mittermeier---a public official that is a true gem and great resource.

http://www.twp.maplewood.nj.us/index.aspx?nid=87

case

Dec 30, 2014 at 1:44pm

Mittermeier is fantastic. Are you pretty confident that you don't have water issues in the basement? (not trying to be a nay sayer but this IS new jersey after all). I'm not looking to do my basement but I'm in progress finishing my attic (which has been almost fun, believe it or not).

cleg

Dec 30, 2014 at 11:05pm

Thanks - no water issues as long as the sump pump works. Probably won't finish the CLUB walls per se - considering a stone veneer or the like.

I also realized if I make the stairs part of the finished room then I have an egress with the side door of the house. Will confirm.

case

Dec 30, 2014 at 11:46pm

I did some drywall on the ceiling just to "tighten" the space but I simply don't have the energy or will to do the walls. Plus I'm 100% convinced that putting drywall on the walls will somehow encourage a 100 year flood in my neighborhood... but I do think it's great to have a finished basement! I'm sure Mr. Mittermeier will give you all the facts you need - good luck and I think it'll be well worth your efforts.

pmartinezv

Dec 31, 2014 at 3:00am

The permit process is not very difficult actually. If will get a bit more complicated if you have a bathroom included in the renovation, or if you are adding or moving a lof of the electric. But since you will have someone doing the electric they can give you the details required for the drawings such as number of lights, switch and plug locations, if GFIs are needed etc.
Will you have the laundry in the basement? Will it stay in the same place or are you moving it? You will need a plumbing permit for that.

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