How to Prevent Most Common Problems Before They Occur

Renovating your basement can be a relatively easy and inexpensive way to add extra living space and boost the value of your home. But before you finalize your budget or start picking out carpet samples, there are a few things you should do first to protect your home, keep your family healthy and safe - and ensure your renovation is a success.

To help you prepare for a successful basement renovation, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) offers the following tips on what to look for and how to prevent the most common problems before they occur:

• Inspect your basement for signs of moisture or mold, cracks in the walls or floor, or areas where you have to stoop to avoid bumping your head. If your basement isn't high, dry, and structurally sound, be sure to include the cost of fixing those problems in your renovation budget.
• If you intend to alter the structure of your house, increase the size of any windows or exterior doors, or add a self-contained apartment such as a "granny flat," you must obtain a building permit from your municipality before beginning construction.
• To prevent heat loss, most exterior basement walls must be insulated for most of their height. Make sure your plan also includes measures to control air leakage and moisture protection to help keep your basement warm and dry.
• Make sure your basement has a good quality heating system. Finished basements can also benefit from continuous or intermittent ventilation. Operation of the furnace fan, heat recovery ventilators or central exhaust systems can provide such ventilation.
• Finally, always make safety your number one priority. Install fire and smoke detectors on every floor of your home. Have electrical fixtures and wiring installed by a certified electrician. Make sure the basement has a safe path of exit to the outside in case of emergency. Protect your family by using low-pollutant emitting coverings and finishes. And when in doubt, hire a qualified professional to tackle any projects or deal with any issues you aren't comfortable handling yourself.

Source:CMHC