Can I remodel a basement myself?

• <div><p>Unless you have extensive experience in construction work, remodeling a basement is best left to a professional. There are several tasks associated with this project that require exact precision, including:</p><ul><li><p>Replacing insulation </p></li><li><p>Replacing carpet or other flooring </p></li><li><p>Adding heating and cooling</p></li><li><p>Adjusting or adding walls and doors</p></li><li><p>Altering or adding plumbing elements</p></li></ul><p>If any of these elements is done incorrectly, it could severely impact the quality of your basement remodel and be dangerous. Changing a basement often comes with <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/finished-basement-code-requirements.htm">code safety requirements</a>, like egress windows and proper ventilation. Therefore, leaving it up to a professional is often the best decision.</p></div>

Get matched with top basement remodelers in Hilo, HI

Q: Does a finished basement count toward a home's square footage?

• <div><p>A finished basement does not always count as square footage, as this varies by state regulations. In areas that allow below-grade spaces to be included in a home's official square footage, the basement must typically meet certain conditions. These conditions often include having a functional egress and being a livable space with flooring, finished walls, and temperature control. To be certain, contact your local assessor to confirm your area's specific policies regarding basement square footage.</p></div>

Q: How do I choose the right materials for finishing my basement walls?

• <div><p>When choosing materials for finishing basement walls, consider factors such as moisture resistance, durability, and fire resistance. Opt for materials specifically designed for basement environments, like moisture-resistant drywall or cement board. Insulation with vapor barriers can help regulate temperature and prevent condensation. Consider using mold-resistant paints or coatings. </p><p>Research and consult with experts to select materials that are suitable for your specific basement conditions and intended use. Prioritize quality and compatibility to achieve long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing results.</p></div>

Q: Are walkout basements included in square footage?

• <div><p>Walkout basements are not generally included in a home&rsquo;s square footage, although they may be if they meet certain conditions that depend on local regulations. A finished walkout basement used as a living space may be counted toward square footage in some locations as long as all codes for livable space are met.</p></div>

Q: What room is the most expensive to renovate?

• <div><p>Kitchens and bathrooms are typically the most expensive rooms to renovate. The high cost is due to several factors, including expensive appliances like ranges, hoods, and refrigerators, as well as costly fixtures. The 'bones' of the room, such as electrical and plumbing, are also expensive to move or replace. Because of the vast amount of prep work, finishing, and specialized labor involved in a relatively small footprint, these projects can cost double or more than a living space remodel. Even when trying to renovate on a budget, kitchens and bathrooms will likely carry a hefty price tag.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Basement Remodel pros in Hilo, HI

*The Angi rating for Basement Remodel companies in Hilo, HI is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Basement Remodel needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Basement Remodel companies in Hilo, HI is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Basement Remodel needs.

Last update on December 25, 2025

Reviewed in December 2025
We were repainting the interior of the house we rent out while between tenants. Kyle was able to start and complete the job quickly and his crew did a great job. This is an older (built 1913) home that needed a lot of detail and hand work. They paid close attention to detail, prepped and...
Pro Coat Painting LLC
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Reviewed in September 2025
We had a great experience working with Elite Landscaping and Irrigation! They were able to take our design, plant preferences, budget considerations and make our vision come to life. They extended our lanai space with a surrounding walkway, installed a retaining wall, stairs for better access...
Elite Landscaping and Irrigation
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Reviewed in August 2025
I highly recommend Sean Gustin’s work with Kadywampus Construction/ Precision Epoxy Solutions. He built a lanai for me and visualized, planned and executed it staying within budget and scheduled timeframe. I got two bids for the project, and his bid was lower and reasonable. He drew up a...
Kadywampus Construction
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Reviewed in March 2023
The business owner arrived within hours of the time I submitted my request for an estimate. He seemed very nice and knowledgeable and spent over 30 minutes discussing what I wanted and some options. He left promising the quote would be emailed from his wife by the end of the week. This was...
JC Construction
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Reviewed in February 2023
345 Construction repairs is very knowledgeable and keeps his work area clean as they work. The prices are reasonable and accommodating to what the client can afford. Jason the owner is easy to talk with and he has knowledge of various construction needs such as carpentry, drywall and drywall...
345 Const. Repairs
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Reviewed in November 2022
Once the project is finished I will be extremely happy.
Lux Construction LLC
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Reviewed in October 2022
5 stars is all the truth. Good work. Appreciated everything they did. We had termite damage and exterior walls were replaced. They remodeled our bathrooms and painted the whole house, replaced carpet with hard wood flooring and repaired drywall, replaced the roof and added gutters. We have a...
Oshiro Contracting, LLC
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Reviewed in May 2022
Had my roof, exterior walls, and gutters cleaned. Im very happy with the results. Communicative, professional, polite, and accommodating of time restrictions. Im happy to recommend them.
HAWAII'S PRESSURE WASHING & PAINTING CO.
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Reviewed in January 2022
Roof2Tank made the outside of my house look like it was newly painted. Even another contractor was very impressed. The entire experience was positive, from estimate to payment. Very professional all the way. You won’t be disappointed. AAAAAA
Roof 2 Tank
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Reviewed in December 2015
The original contract stipulated a completion time of "50-70 working days or 2.5-3 months" at a cost of $88,900 plus tax; it took over six months and cost over two and one-half times that much. While I did add items that consumed time and money, the contractor hired extra workers for those items...
Mid Pac Services
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Find Basement remodelers in Hilo

Serving Hilo, HI and surrounding areas

In business since 2021

Free estimates

Warranties offered

"Good, quality work, but the workers do not speak english well. You need to watch and pay attention to make sure instructions were relayed correctly."

+14

Response time2 days

Response rate98%

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Serving Hilo, HI and surrounding areas

In business since 2006

Credit card accepted

"Amanda was really very good! At first I was very skeptical, thinking why did I pay money to just speak with someone on the phone about my kitchen remodel project... but after just a few minutes of her addressing some of the issues/questions I emailed to her earlier, I knew it was worth it. It was very clear that she knew her business and she gave me several ideas that I had not even thought about. I told her that I would definitely recommend her to friends and I will very likely use her again myself for my next home project!

"

California Client Saves with HMD Designer Discounts

Recommended by54%of homeowners

Serving Hilo, HI and surrounding areas

In business since 2007

Free estimates

"DSK did an overall very good job. Resolved a few issues promptly. Would recommend them."

Response time3 days

Recommended by82%of homeowners

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H&M Maintenance Service

New to Angi

Basement - Remodel

Serving Hilo, HI and surrounding areas

In business since 2000

Free estimates

Offers commercial services

Cheap and good quality. I'll bargain hunt for you.

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Omega Construction of Kona, Inc.

New to Angi

Basement - Remodel

Serving Hilo, HI and surrounding areas

In business since 2000

Free estimates

At Omega, we are the total package. We provide a complete features including flexible plans, site preparation, materials, general contracting, outstanding interior options, and project management!

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Crest Constrution Services

New to Angi

Basement - Remodel

Serving Hilo, HI and surrounding areas

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

Credit card accepted

Crest Construction Services (East Hawai’i) is a leading provider of exceptional home renovation and remodeling solutions. With a commitment to quality craftsmanship and customer satisfaction, we have built a reputation as an award-winning company in the industry. Our team of skilled professionals is dedicated to transforming your living space into the home of your dreams. Trust Crest Construction for all your renovation needs, experience the difference of working with an industry leader.

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Basement Remodel questions, answered by experts

A finished basement does not always count as square footage, as this varies by state regulations. In areas that allow below-grade spaces to be included in a home's official square footage, the basement must typically meet certain conditions. These conditions often include having a functional egress and being a livable space with flooring, finished walls, and temperature control. To be certain, contact your local assessor to confirm your area's specific policies regarding basement square footage.

When choosing materials for finishing basement walls, consider factors such as moisture resistance, durability, and fire resistance. Opt for materials specifically designed for basement environments, like moisture-resistant drywall or cement board. Insulation with vapor barriers can help regulate temperature and prevent condensation. Consider using mold-resistant paints or coatings.

Research and consult with experts to select materials that are suitable for your specific basement conditions and intended use. Prioritize quality and compatibility to achieve long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing results.

Unless you have extensive experience in construction work, remodeling a basement is best left to a professional. There are several tasks associated with this project that require exact precision, including:

Replacing insulation
Replacing carpet or other flooring
Adding heating and cooling
Adjusting or adding walls and doors
Altering or adding plumbing elements

If any of these elements is done incorrectly, it could severely impact the quality of your basement remodel and be dangerous. Changing a basement often comes with code safety requirements, like egress windows and proper ventilation. Therefore, leaving it up to a professional is often the best decision.

Walkout basements are not generally included in a home’s square footage, although they may be if they meet certain conditions that depend on local regulations. A finished walkout basement used as a living space may be counted toward square footage in some locations as long as all codes for livable space are met.

Kitchens and bathrooms are typically the most expensive rooms to renovate. The high cost is due to several factors, including expensive appliances like ranges, hoods, and refrigerators, as well as costly fixtures. The 'bones' of the room, such as electrical and plumbing, are also expensive to move or replace. Because of the vast amount of prep work, finishing, and specialized labor involved in a relatively small footprint, these projects can cost double or more than a living space remodel. Even when trying to renovate on a budget, kitchens and bathrooms will likely carry a hefty price tag.

The Hilo, HI homeowners’ guide to basement remodels

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

See all articles

Rachel Hoffman
•
Jul 20, 2026Jul 20, 2026
How Much Does a Basement Remodel Cost? [2026 Data]
A basement remodel can often cost as much as adding another room. However, homeowners should consider the usefulness and ROI of a remodel.
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•
May 30, 2026May 30, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Frame a Basement? [2026 Data]
The first step toward a cozy finished basement is adding its framing. How much does it cost to frame a basement? Let's break down the numbers.
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•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Finish a Basement? [2026 Data]
An unfinished basement has a lot of potential for a family room or guest suite. So how much does it cost to finish a basement? Read on for all cost factors.
Amy Freeman
•
Jul 20, 2026Jul 20, 2026
Basement Remodel on a Budget: Yes, You Can Do It
Do you have a finished basement? If you want to give it a new lease on life, find out how you can do a basement remodel on a budget.
Melissa Graham
•
May 18, 2026May 18, 2026
5 Questions to Ask About Basement Remodels
These questions for professional contractors can help address your basement remodeling needs, design, and the best time to start the project.
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Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
These 8 Red Flags Will Help You Spot a Bad Basement Remodeler
Hiring a bad basement remodeler can wreak havoc on the look and longevity of your unfinished space. Here are red flags to look for as you vet basement contractors.