Get matched with top basement remodelers in Durham, NY

Q: Is it normal for a contractor to ask for a down payment, and how much should you pay up front?

• <div><p>It is common for a contractor to ask for a down payment before starting a project, especially for jobs that require purchasing materials and equipment or hiring a crew. The deposit amount can range from 10% to 50% of the total job cost. While a request for up to 50% is not unusual, a contractor should not ask for more than that, and you should never pay for a project in full before the work has begun. To protect yourself, always discuss payment terms before starting and have a written contract that outlines the project timeline and expectations. Additionally, be sure to hire reputable contractors and check their licensing and insurance before the project begins.</p></div>

Q: Do general contractors require a down payment, and what is the typical payment schedule?

• <div><p>Yes, most general contractors require an initial down payment. A reasonable deposit is typically between 10% and 25% of the total project cost, although this can vary by project size and location. This upfront payment helps the contractor cover initial costs like materials, permits, licensing, and hiring subcontractors. The remaining balance is usually billed according to a schedule outlined in your contract, often tied to project milestones or completion dates. Be cautious of contractors who ask for a large deposit of 50% or more, as this could be a red flag for a scam.</p></div>

Q: What are the benefits of remodeling a basement?

• <div><p>Renovation enhances functionality, increases home value, and can add new space for personal or family needs. It typically modernizes older unfinished basements for new uses.</p></div>

Q: Can you add a kitchenette to a basement?

• <div><p>Yes, you can add a kitchenette to a basement. However, you&rsquo;ll have to consider the costs associated with basement kitchenettes. If you&rsquo;re starting from scratch in an unfinished basement, you&rsquo;ll need to account for brand-new plumbing, electrical, flooring, and more in addition to the cost of the kitchenette. If you&rsquo;re putting a kitchenette in an already finished basement equipped with plumbing and electrical, you&rsquo;ll save considerable money. </p></div>

Q: How long does it take to finish or remodel a basement?

• <div><p>The time it takes to finish or remodel a basement can vary significantly, ranging from a few weeks to several months or even up to a year. On average, the construction phase can take four to eight weeks, but the total project time can extend to three or four months when including planning and permits. The timeline depends on several factors, including the basement's size, design complexity, the scope of the work, and your contractor's availability. A more detailed breakdown for an average-sized basement might include: framing (3-5 days), electrical and rough-in plumbing (3-5 days), drywall installation (5 days), flooring (2-3 days), and final touches like painting and trim (about a week). If preliminary work like installing a waterproofing system or addressing structural issues is needed, the timeline could extend to six to twelve months. Factors like difficult access, material transport, and ventilation needs can also add to the project's duration.</p></div>

Enter your zip and get matched with up to 5 pros

Need a pro for your basement remodel project in Durham, NY?

Select your specific project to find the pro for you.

Verified Reviews for Basement Remodel pros in Durham, NY

*The Angi rating for Basement Remodel companies in Durham, NY 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 Durham, NY 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 May 31, 2023

Reviewed in May 2023
Dan did an amazing job with our project! He built a solid, level foundation and constructed a large shed with loft area. He was skilled, efficient, dependable, and knowledgeable. And also just an all around cool, friendly person to work with. We would not hesitate to call him for additional...
Shapiro Construction
Request a quote
Reviewed in August 2022
Was waiting to see if the ground beetles (in the 1,000's) would finally disappear. Dread going down the basement as they come every year. I am praying this is the last time I will see them. Did not reply to you until I thought I could give you the most honest answer. They are very efficient...
Meerkat Pest Control, LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in October 2021
Our 200 year old house was in need of a new roof and a few other repairs. Masana Roofing came out the next day and gave me the best price out of quite a few competitors. I would hire them all over again.. Great work ethic
Masana Roofing And Construction
Request a quote
Reviewed in April 2021
I wanted to have an organized kitchen and I wanted to be able to reach everything. Danielle helped me rearrange everything and created spaces that will help me stay organized. I love my pantry! Everything is within reach and looks neat!
D'Clutter
Request a quote
Reviewed in August 2019
Randy and his team did a great job on our project. My wife and I love the kitchen remodel. Randy, Victor and his team were professional and trustworthy, which was important to us since we live on the east coast and could not be here to supervise the work. Some minor punch list items were quickly...
Legacy Constructors, Inc.
Request a quote
Reviewed in November 2017
Hudson Valley Home Improvements have done a roof for me as well as a bathroom remodel. Sebastian is the Lead man I trusted to do this work at my home without my presence. Everything was done to perfection. I'm very happy with all aspects of their performance, will continue to use their...
Hudson Valley Home Improvments
Request a quote
Reviewed in February 2017
if you want something done right look no further. Gary can literally do the work of a normal contractor at 2x the quality in half the time. Gary was faced with a difficult task in redoing the our basement bathroom given all the plumbing was under 12 inches of concrete however he showed up with...
G Greenwald Carpentry and General Contractor
Request a quote
Reviewed in March 2015
I contacted 5 different companies to provide estimates for mold removal for a small house we were buying as an investment in our neighborhood. We could not close on the house until the mold was removed from the exposed basement floor joists. Of the five contractors, Kevin was chosen because 1.)...
Kleen Breeze, Inc.
Request a quote
Reviewed in April 2014
They do excellent work and get things done fast with quality work. They definitely do professional work that looks fantastic. I would highly recommend them for your bathroom remodel. We were not sure what we wanted as far as design goes, but Sergey offered excellent design ideas and pictures of...
V & S Tile LLC & Bathroom Remodeling Co
Request a quote
Reviewed in January 2009
The team came in, with all of the equipment, including a dumpster, took EVERYTHING out of the basement, down to the studs, cleaned the area, and removed every bit of the material that had any evidence of possible mold. Sheet rock, carpeting and ceiling tiles were removed. We were very happy...
Expediant Environmental Solutions, LLC
Request a quote

Find Basement remodelers in Durham

C & J Custom Builders Inc

4.8(

)

Serving Durham, NY and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2009

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"C&J did an incredible job completely gutting and remodeling our 1895 farmhouse. This was a huge 8-month job with the variety of complications and required changes an old house can throw at you; throughout the process Craig and Jerry offered excellent design suggestions, collaborated very well with our architects, worked diligently to stay on budget, and each day demonstrated craftsmanship and professionalism of the highest level. C&J’s team of subcontractors and designers are excellent too. These people are the best the building trade has to offer: conscientious, skilled, creative, and a pleasure to work with. Hoping to have them back soon to remodel the guest cottage and garage! See Photos here: [*** Link removed ***]"

+36

Response time2 days

6 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Request Quote

EBR Construction, LLC

5.0(

)

Serving Durham, NY and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2025

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

We are a locally owned and operated company that values honesty and integrity and treats your home as if it were our own. We offer a variety of General Contractor services that are customizable to each individual project. You will find us to be competitively priced, paying close attention to the details of each and every project that we are involved with. We look forward to building lasting relationships and guarantee your satisfaction!

26 neighbors recently requested a quote

Request Quote

Greene County Contracting LLC

5.0(

)

Serving Durham, NY and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2023

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Jack was professional, his workmanship is outstanding. He is hardworking and kept us informed of what we could expect so there were no surprises. His estimate was fair and less than another contractor we had look at the job. We will be giving him more work as our complex has 23 units. The HOA is very pleased with Greene County Contractors."

Response time2 days

Response rate88%

1 neighbors recently requested a quote

Serving Durham, NY and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2008

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

We invite you to experience a tradition of customer satisfaction that will exceed your greatest expectations. Our professionalism and quality workmanship will accurately reflect your taste and lifestyle. From conception to completion we work with you until the job is done. We thrive to take care of all of our clients unique needs. We are ethical, honest and easy to communicate with. Call us today you'll be pleased you did. Thank you

Response time10 mins

Response rate100%

Request Quote

Repair Zar LLC

New to Angi

Serving Durham, NY and surrounding areas

Approved

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

Small jobs welcome

Repair Zar Home Services is a locally owned and operated handyman and home repair company proudly serving Dutchess County, Putnam County, Ulster County, and surrounding areas. We specialize in home repairs, deck repair, door installation, garage door repair, drywall repair, trim and finish carpentry, screen repair, appliance installation, fencing, painting, and general property maintenance. We provide honest pricing, quality workmanship, and dependable service for homeowners, landlords, property managers, and real estate professionals. Whether it's a small repair or a larger improvement project, we're committed to getting the job done right. Free estimates available.

8 neighbors recently requested a quote

Serving Durham, NY and surrounding areas

In business since 1990

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Sharif and his crew did an incredible job and are all very skilled contractors! They all went above and beyond and were a pleasure to have around. They paid attention to detail and finished the project in a timely manner. I enjoyed seeing them pull in and get to work! The overall result and experience was fantastic and I will be using them for multiple more projects after this one and would truly recommend them to anyone! 5 stars!!!"

+59

Recommended by94%of homeowners

Serving Durham, NY and surrounding areas

In business since 2002

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"I'm writing another review for T&T because after he did the work on my roof, he gave me a call to make sure everything was going ok and I was happy with the work he did. I thought that was pretty decent of him.
"

Recommended by91%of homeowners

Request Quote

L & H Construction Company

4.5(

)

Serving Durham, NY and surrounding areas

In business since 2004

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Guys performed job well and looks great. Tim and his crew cleaned up site and were respectful and professional. I'd consider Tim for future work"

Recommended by88%of homeowners

Serving Durham, NY and surrounding areas

In business since 2012

Free estimates

Warranties offered

"Dan did an excellent job of repairing some log rot that was in a critical location of the structure He was thoughtful, creative and thorough. He also repaired the part of my deck that was partially responsible for the log damage. Ok pricing was very fair I will be contacting Dan for remodeling work in the future"

+52

Response time1 day

Recommended by95%of homeowners

Request Quote

Westside Home Improvement

3.6(

)

Serving Durham, NY and surrounding areas

In business since 1971

Credit card accepted

Westside Home Improvement, Inc. has been owned and operated by Alan Amerman since 1971. Alan has extensive experience in masonry, siding, roofing, carpentry, gutters etc. He personally will come out to your home, business, etc. to provide you with a free estimate of the potential job himself. ---- Alan makes sure that he is at every job site to oversee his employees and make sure that our client is getting the best quality and most professional work possible. ---- Here's a few facts about Westside Home Improvement Inc. : We are fully insured - We do FREE work for the SPCA and other animal shelters. We look forward to help you on your next project!!

Request Quote

...

Showing 1-10 of 87

Basement Remodel questions, answered by experts

It is common for a contractor to ask for a down payment before starting a project, especially for jobs that require purchasing materials and equipment or hiring a crew. The deposit amount can range from 10% to 50% of the total job cost. While a request for up to 50% is not unusual, a contractor should not ask for more than that, and you should never pay for a project in full before the work has begun. To protect yourself, always discuss payment terms before starting and have a written contract that outlines the project timeline and expectations. Additionally, be sure to hire reputable contractors and check their licensing and insurance before the project begins.

Yes, most general contractors require an initial down payment. A reasonable deposit is typically between 10% and 25% of the total project cost, although this can vary by project size and location. This upfront payment helps the contractor cover initial costs like materials, permits, licensing, and hiring subcontractors. The remaining balance is usually billed according to a schedule outlined in your contract, often tied to project milestones or completion dates. Be cautious of contractors who ask for a large deposit of 50% or more, as this could be a red flag for a scam.

Renovation enhances functionality, increases home value, and can add new space for personal or family needs. It typically modernizes older unfinished basements for new uses.

Yes, you can add a kitchenette to a basement. However, you’ll have to consider the costs associated with basement kitchenettes. If you’re starting from scratch in an unfinished basement, you’ll need to account for brand-new plumbing, electrical, flooring, and more in addition to the cost of the kitchenette. If you’re putting a kitchenette in an already finished basement equipped with plumbing and electrical, you’ll save considerable money.

The time it takes to finish or remodel a basement can vary significantly, ranging from a few weeks to several months or even up to a year. On average, the construction phase can take four to eight weeks, but the total project time can extend to three or four months when including planning and permits. The timeline depends on several factors, including the basement's size, design complexity, the scope of the work, and your contractor's availability. A more detailed breakdown for an average-sized basement might include: framing (3-5 days), electrical and rough-in plumbing (3-5 days), drywall installation (5 days), flooring (2-3 days), and final touches like painting and trim (about a week). If preliminary work like installing a waterproofing system or addressing structural issues is needed, the timeline could extend to six to twelve months. Factors like difficult access, material transport, and ventilation needs can also add to the project's duration.

The Durham, NY 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
•
May 2, 2026May 2, 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.
Haley Nothstein
•
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.
Rachel Hoffman
•
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
•
Apr 10, 2026Apr 10, 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.
Lawrence Bonk
•
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.