Question - Converting a basement to a bedroom??

Question

I know it's possible to convert a basement into a bedroom, but I've heard that it can be difficult.  I know that the requirements also differ based on location you're looking to purchase a property.  Is there a website (or place I can be directed), where I can specifically look up my location and the laws/guidelines that dictate bedroom requirements?

There is a duplex that I'm hopefully looking to get under contract, but one of the "make it or break it" value adds that would make this property a good (or great) investment, is this conversion.

Any help would be appreciated.  Thank you!

Parker Eberhard · Answer

@Vincent DeAngelis I would look up the building code requirements on the building department website of the jurisdiction where your property is located in.

The most important  thing that putting a bedroom in a basement needs is a method of egress to get out of the bedroom in case of fire. If the basement is daylit (has part of the basement above grade) this is pretty straightforward. Otherwise you will probably need to put in a light well / egress well. If the building is pretty close to property lines, it may be difficult to get a light well within property line set backs. All this is stuff that will make or break the deal, so doing good research is paramount.

You will also want to determine if the basement is dry enough to put a bedroom in. If there is water infiltration in the basement through walls or the floor, you will need to figure out a way to waterproof (may have to rip up the old floor slab and pour a new one, put in interior French drains and drainage mats on the wall, etc). Once again, this is all part of the due dilligence phase

John Teachout · Answer

Some considerations are egress (as already mentioned and this can be very expensive but may be worthwhile), ceiling height, HVAC, connection to the rest of the house (how do you get to and from the bedroom?), mechanical equipment locations, bathroom access, and so forth. While there may be specific local requirements, some of this stuff is pretty standard across the country.

Vincent DeAngelis · Answer

Found the documentation online. Thank you both - much appreciated!