How much does basement renovation cost?

With Zigma Group, basement renovation starts from $32 per sq ft, and most projects fall between $36,000 and $85,000. Prices are in Canadian dollars before HST, as of October 2026, and are confirmed after a site visit. The main factors are finished floor area; adding a bathroom, bar or laundry; and waterproofing or ceiling-height work needed first.

Do I need a permit to finish my basement in Ontario?

Often, yes. A permit is usually required if you add or move plumbing, change heating, alter structure or add an entrance. Simple cosmetic work may not need one. We check with your municipality.

Can you add a bathroom in a basement?

Yes. It depends on where the main drain is and whether the new fixtures can drain by gravity or need a pump. We check this at the first visit.

My basement ceiling is low. What are the options?

Ducts and pipes can sometimes be rerouted to gain height. If that is not enough, the floor can be lowered by underpinning the foundation, which is a structural job done under a permit.

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Basement Renovation

Basements · Greater Toronto Area

Basement Renovation and Finishing in the GTA

A finished basement adds a full floor of living space without changing the outside of the house. Done properly, it starts with keeping the space dry and warm.

Call (647) 718-3913 Book a consultation

Finished room with wood flooring, recessed ceiling lighting and solid wood doors — From our Abtin project

Scope

What is included.

Moisture and foundation assessment
Insulation, framing and subfloor
Bathrooms, bars and laundry rooms
Electrical, lighting and heating
Egress windows and new entrances
Flooring, ceilings, doors and trim

Cost

What it costs.

From $32per sq ft

Most projects: $36,000 to $85,000

What moves the price

Finished floor area
Adding a bathroom, bar or laundry
Waterproofing or ceiling-height work needed first

Prices are in Canadian dollars before HST, as of October 2026. Every project is confirmed with a written quote after a site visit.

Before you start

What to know.

Permits
In most GTA municipalities, finishing a basement needs a building permit when the work involves structural changes, new plumbing, heating changes or a new entrance. We confirm what applies to your address.
Water first
Any leak, damp wall or drainage problem has to be fixed before framing goes up. Finishing over moisture leads to mould behind the walls.
Ceiling height
Low ceilings, ducts and beams limit what a basement can become. If more height is needed, underpinning can lower the floor.

How we work

One team for every stage.

AssessWe survey the house as it stands.
Design and permitsDrawings and approvals before work starts.
Strip-outWhat is worn out comes off.
RebuildStructure, wiring, plumbing and walls.
FinishesCabinetry, tile, floors and paint.
HandoverWalkthrough and documents.

Questions

Basement Renovation: the short answers.

How much does basement renovation cost?: With Zigma Group, basement renovation starts from $32 per sq ft, and most projects fall between $36,000 and $85,000. Prices are in Canadian dollars before HST, as of October 2026, and are confirmed after a site visit. The main factors are finished floor area; adding a bathroom, bar or laundry; and waterproofing or ceiling-height work needed first.
Do I need a permit to finish my basement in Ontario?: Often, yes. A permit is usually required if you add or move plumbing, change heating, alter structure or add an entrance. Simple cosmetic work may not need one. We check with your municipality.
Can you add a bathroom in a basement?: Yes. It depends on where the main drain is and whether the new fixtures can drain by gravity or need a pump. We check this at the first visit.
My basement ceiling is low. What are the options?: Ducts and pipes can sometimes be rerouted to gain height. If that is not enough, the floor can be lowered by underpinning the foundation, which is a structural job done under a permit.

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