basement remodels & renovations

Build Out Your Basement in Cumming, GA

Considering transforming your unfinished basement into living space? Finishing or building out your basement in Cumming, Georgia, is an excellent way to expand your home’s footprint, enhance its functionality, and increase its overall value.

At North GA Handyman Services, we pride ourselves in working with neighbors in Cumming and Forsyth County to build out the basements they’ve always dreamed of. Whether it’s extra space for entertaining, additional room for an in-law suite, or creating a place for your family to gather, our renovation team can make your vision a reality!

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Top 5 Questions Answered

We know the process of finishing a basement in Cumming, GA can feel daunting, and you likely have questions. That’s why we’ve provided an FAQ designed to provide clear, concise answers for local Forsyth County homeowners.

Yes. Finishing a basement in Cumming, GA, requires a Residential Basement Finish Permit from Forsyth County’s Permitting Division. This ensures your project complies with all local building codes and safety regulations, including electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and structural requirements. Trying to complete a basement remodel or renovation without the necessary permits can lead to significant issues, including fines, difficulty selling your home, or even being forced to undo the work. 

Good news! As your general contractor, we handle the entire permitting process for you, ensuring everything is done correctly and efficiently. What’s more, we’ll communicate and keep you informed throughout the process.

The cost of finishing a basement in Cumming varies widely based on size, complexity, and the quality of finishes you choose. Generally, costs can range significantly per square foot. Factors that influence the price include adding bathrooms or kitchens, installing egress windows (see more on this topic further down), extensive plumbing or electrical work, and the addition of high-end materials. 

During your initial consultation, we provide a detailed, transparent estimate tailored to your specific project goals and budget. There are no hidden costs or surprises when you work with North GA Handyman Services.

The timeline for finishing a basement in Cumming depends on the scope of work. A straightforward project might take 4 to 12 weeks, while more complex designs involving significant structural changes, multiple rooms, or custom features could take 14 to 18 weeks or more. This timeline usually includes planning, permitting, construction, and final inspections. 

Our Basement Finishing Services team will work to establish a clear project schedule upfront and keep you informed every step of the way. 

Yes, a professionally finished basement can significantly increase your home’s resale value and overall market appeal in the real estate market. It adds valuable square footage and usable living space, which is a major draw for potential buyers. While the exact return on investment varies, a well-designed and professionally executed basement renovation is considered one of the best home improvement projects for ROI, especially in areas like Cumming and Forsyth County where space and amenities are highly valued.

If your finished basement includes any sleeping rooms (bedrooms), or if it constitutes a habitable space, it is required by code to have egress windows or an exterior door. These are crucial for emergency escape and rescue. 

Key requirements typically include:

  • Minimum Net Clear Opening: Usually 5.7 square feet (5.0 square feet for grade floor openings).
  • Minimum Clear Height: 24 inches.
  • Minimum Clear Width: 20 inches.
  • Maximum Sill Height: 44 inches from the finished floor to the bottom of the clear opening.
  • Window Wells: If the window sill is below ground level, a window well is required with specific dimensions (e.g., minimum 9 square feet horizontal area, 36 inches projection and width) and a ladder if deeper than 44 inches.
  • Operability: Must be operational from the inside without keys, tools, or special knowledge.

At North GA Handyman Services, our team will ensure all egress requirements are met for your safety and code compliance.

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NORTH GA HANDYMAN SERVICES

Serving North Georgia for 45+ years

We serve Forsyth, Dawson and Lumpkin Counties along the GA 400 corridor. Service areas include:

  • ALPHARETTA
  • CUMMING
  • COAL MOUNTAIN
  • DAHLONEGA
  • DAWSONVILLE
  • GAINESVILLE
  • JOHN’S CREEK
  • MILTON
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