Basement Finishing Checklist – What to Plan Before You Start (Ottawa Edition)

Finishing your basement is exciting—but before the drywall goes up, you’ll want a solid plan. Too many homeowners jump into renovations and realize too late that they forgot a vent, outlet, or window. That’s where this guide comes in.

At R&G Walls, we’ve helped homeowners across Ottawa transform unfinished basements into bright, functional living spaces—including legal rental units, family rooms, and guest suites.

Here’s our go-to checklist to help you plan your basement renovation in Ottawa, the right way.

✅ 1. Define the Purpose of the Basement

Start with your goal. Are you building a:

• Legal rental unit?

• Home gym or theatre?

• Guest room or in-law suite?

• Kids’ playroom or office?

Your layout, finishes, and permit requirements will all depend on how you plan to use the space.

✅ 2. Check Local Zoning & Permit Needs

If you’re adding a bathroom, bedroom, or rental suite, you’ll likely need permits. In Ottawa, you may also need:

• Egress windows

• HVAC changes

• Legal secondary unit approval (for rentals)

💡 Tip: We can work with your designer or recommend one who knows the Ottawa code.

✅ 3. Plan the Layout & Framing

Consider:

• Where the walls will go

• Access to plumbing and electrical

• Ceiling height around ductwork

• Storage and utility room access

We help plan smart framing so your space feels open, code-compliant, and future-proofed.

✅ 4. Choose Insulation & Soundproofing

A dry basement starts with good insulation. We recommend:

• Rigid foam or batt insulation behind drywall

• Vapour barrier to reduce moisture

• Resilient channels and soundproofing for rentals or family homes

✅ 5. Electrical & Plumbing Rough-Ins

Do this before drywall goes up. Think:

• Pot lights or ceiling fixtures

• Bathroom layouts

• Future-proofing for a kitchenette or wet bar

• Network cables or home theatre wiring

✅ 6. Plan for Heating, Cooling & Airflow

Your basement must be comfortable year-round. That means:

• Extending HVAC vents

• Installing baseboard heaters if needed

• Ensuring fresh air circulation (especially for legal units)

✅ 7. Confirm Drywall, Painting & Finish Options

We help guide homeowners through:

• Drywall type (moisture-resistant, fire-rated, soundproof)

• Taping, sanding, and priming

• Paint selection, trim styles, and finishing touches

🧰 Bonus: Consider These Before You Start

• Will you need permits?

• Are you waterproofed and mold-free?

• Do you want flooring included?

• What’s your budget per square foot?

• Are you doing a legal unit, and if so, do you have drawings?

🛠️ Let R&G Walls Help You Plan It Right

We’re more than drywall installers—we help Ottawa homeowners plan and finish full basement renovations, including legal suites, rec rooms, offices, and more.

📞 Call or text 613-869-7391 to get started📍 Serving Ottawa, Barrhaven, Kanata, Orleans, Nepean & nearby towns