Basement Development Cost

How much does it cost to develop a basement in Calgary?

Naturally, the first thing people want to know is “how much does basement development cost?” Well, there is a long answer and a short answer. The short answer is: Our average Calgary basement development falls in the mid-high $40,000s. The long answer is: Our basement development prices range from $35,000 to $70,000 and beyond. Inflation and supply-chain issues have dramatically driven up construction costs over the past few years causing sharp rises in Calgary basement development costs, along with all other avenues of construction. Both material and labour costs have risen substantially. Sadly, gone are the days of basements in the mid-$20,000s. On the lower end, a single room basement with no bathroom and basic finishing will start right around $35,000. More commonly,, our basements will fall in the $40,000-55,000 range for an average basement with a few upgrades. On the high-end, a basement with a large wet-bar, custom built-ins, and other upgrades can creep up to $60,000 and beyond. We make every effort to be as efficient as possible and to keep costs down. Further to that, we maintain a profit margin in the 15% range and work on a volume-based model. 15% is extremely low for the industry, but our philosophy has always been to deliver as much value to our clients as possible – and particularly in these c

Our Custom Basement Package

Every basement is a custom basement, and we start from our standard package and build out from there, as our clients require. Our Custom Basement Package has everything that most of our clients need. It includes all of the essential components for a basement up to 600sf with a bathroom, living room, and bedroom.

Plumbing rough-ins

One major factor in this price range is whether or not the plumbing rough-ins are there, as having to add the rough-ins can easily run $1500-$3000. Also, if the plumbing rough-ins are existing, relocating them can add to the cost to as well.

Wet-bars and kitchenettes

Wet-bars and kitchenettes are another common upgrade that can significantly raise the cost of developing your basement. Wet-bars start typically start at around $3500, including the plumbing, fixtures and electrical. From there the price goes up depending on finishing, countertops, and most importantly, size.

Fireplaces

Fireplaces are another item that can really add to the cost. Gas fireplaces start at around $6000 including the gas line, venting, permits, product and install. But by the time you have added your mantle, and stone or tile or anything else to dress it up, it is easy to spend $8000 to well over $10,000 depending on taste.

Many of our clients have turned to electric fireplaces or alternative fuel fireplaces such as Bio-Flame products to stay in a lower price point. A good electric can be installed for under $1500 while the Bio-Flame products start a little over the $1800 mark.

Home theatre

Personal home theatres have long been a trend for basement developments. We have built dedicated theatre rooms, and rooms with multiple televisions. Wireless technology has made it less important than it used to be to run wiring for speakers, however it is still a good idea in many cases. We can also supply and install ceiling or in-wall speakers. Home theatre wiring packages start at around $500, and speaker install packages start at around $1200.

Staircase finishing/ Opening staircases

The majority of our clients are happy with the staircase finishing provided within the standard basement package, however some opt to take the staircase finishing further. The most common request is to open the bottom of the staircase wall and replace it with spindles and railings. We can accommodate this in most cases, and depending on the size and the detail of the finishing, it usually falls in the $1500-$3500 range.

Adding subfloors

Subfloors can add warmth and waterproofing to your basement space. Subfloors can add anywhere between $1.50/sf to $5.00/sf depending on the style you choose.

Let's Get Started

If you are interested in one of our basement packages, tell us more about your project and one of our team members will be in touch to set up a quote.