Basement & Garage Conversions

Basement & Garage conversions & renovations

Is space an issue? Why not consider a basement renovation?


Quite often a simple solution to space constraints is just below our feet. Why not  join the growing movement; to convert unused basements from what were once wasted spaces, into family rooms, workshops or man/woman caves.

Need more space? Considered going down?

Because so many New Zealand homes are perched on hillsides, they tend to have loads of basement space underneath.

Many of these basement spaces are just wind tunnels, spider farms or places to store junk. But there’s a growing movement to convert & renovate what were once wasted spaces, into guest rooms, family rooms, workshops or the beloved man or women cave.

Basement renovation elements to consider.

When considering a basement conversion you need plenty of prior planning and enough research to discover how best to proceed with the project.


Moisture:

If you live in an older home, your basement was built for cool storage and lacks an appropriate drainage system and exterior waterproofing. In this case, you may need the services of a professional excavation contractor to achieve and maintain dryness in the space.


Access / Safety:

Make sure stairway access either inside or outside is compliant with current building codes, dependent on how you renovate the basement space. Also make sure adequate headroom and legal egress exists, and a functional smoke detector is installed.


Plumbing:

What purpose you intend to use the basement space for will determine if plumbing is necessary. If you decide on a bedroom with an attached bathroom or a washing machine, then of course a plumbing setup will be necessary.


Lighting:

Often one of the challenges with basement renovations is getting natural light into the space. The use of atriums, light tunnels and strategically placed windows can help to overcome these challenges a good lighting plan is a critical part of a successful basement renovation.


Electrical:

An older home’s electrical system is dated and will need to be brought up to code. Don’t stint on this expense because safety first should be your priority for family or anyone else using the space.

Benefit from our 5-step building process

If you’re talking to anyone else about your basement conversion, do yourself a favour. Ask them if they offer everything you see here – the Pzazz Building 5-Step Building and Renovation Process.


The Pzazz 5-Step Process starts with our In Home Consultation where you will find out if your ideas are feasible, if you need a permit and what the best solutions are. 

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE PZAZZ 5-STEP PROCESS

Basement & Garage conversion articles 

If you're thinking about converting your basement or garage, these articles are designed to get you started with ideas, inspirations, tips and the latest designs, products and technology. 

Pzazz Bathroom Renovator

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Frequently Asked Basement Conversion Questions (FAQ)

  • How much would it cost to carry out a basement conversion?

    In all our time involved in residential renovation we have never got to a position where we are comfortable offering a m2 rate or the like when it comes to basements due to the variables involved.

  • Do you need council consent to convert your basement?

    If creating a living or sleeping space in your basement conversion it is most likely to require a consent. Any renovation that needs to meet safe living conditions may require consent, but we can help!

  • Are basement renovations worth it?

    Yes - as long as the building requirements to create the new space are not excessive. Factors that impact this cost are access, suitable head height and the engineering required to create the space.

  • Can all basements be converted?

    Realistically not all basements spaces are suitable to be converted into living spaces due to the complexities of the site.

  • How long does an basement conversion take?

    Dependent on the amount of engineering work required to allow for the proposed footprint it could be anything from 4 - 14 weeks if not longer.

  • Do you have to move out for a basement renovation?

    In our experience moving out is not often required when converting a basement unless there is significant structural work required.

  • Are bedrooms in basements safe and legal?

    Yes to both counts as long as they are built to current building code. Some key factors are access, ground separation, ceiling height, insulation, ventilation and sunlight. 

Basement Renovation Specialists Near You

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