Finished our 780 sq ft basement in Brampton last year. Total project from permit to final inspection. Sharing the full breakdown.
Pre-Work Assessment
Before getting any quotes, we had a radon test done (result: 58 Bq/m3 - well below threshold, no mitigation needed) and a waterproofing inspection (no active moisture issues, just a slightly damp wall in one corner that was addressed with a crystalline waterproofing treatment for $800).
Permit Process in Brampton
Applied through Brampton’s ePLANS system. Took 6 weeks to issue. Required: architectural plan showing layout, ceiling heights, egress window location, and smoke/CO detector locations. No structural engineer needed since we weren’t touching load-bearing elements.
Scope of Work
- Full perimeter framing (metal studs, 1.5 inches off concrete for thermal break)
- Subfloor (DriCore panels over concrete)
- Bathroom rough-in (3 piece: toilet, sink, shower)
- Egress window in bedroom (existing hopper replaced)
- 2 bedrooms, rec room, bathroom, utility/storage room
- LVP throughout, tile in bathroom
- Full electrical (panel sub-feed, 4 circuits)
- HVAC extension (2 supply, 1 return)
Cost Breakdown
Permit: $1,850
Waterproofing treatment: $800
Framing + insulation + drywall: $22,400
Electrical: $8,200
Plumbing rough-in + finish: $9,400
HVAC: $3,200
Egress window: $2,800
DriCore subfloor (780 sq ft): $3,900
LVP flooring install: $5,600
Tile (bathroom): $2,400
Bathroom fixtures: $2,100
Doors + trim + paint: $4,800
Total: $67,450
That works out to $86.50/sq ft.
Final Inspection
Passed on first attempt. Inspector was thorough - checked egress window dimensions, smoke/CO locations, bathroom GFCI, and HVAC supply/return. Have all the paperwork on file.
Value add: comparable finished basements in our area are selling for $80-100K more than unfinished equivalents.