Get matched with top basement remodelers in Tompkins, NY

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>

Q: What is considered a finished basement?

• <div><p>A finished basement must have a heat and electrical supply with an entrance that meets building code requirements, such as a stairwell to the home's main living space. It often must include finished walls, ceilings, and floors. If the finished basement includes a bedroom, it should have a heat source, an egress window, and a closet.</p><p>Remodeling, as opposed to finishing, means altering an already finished basement by adding a bathroom, bedroom, or living area.</p></div>

Q: What are some common mistakes when finishing basement walls?

• <div><p>Common mistakes when finishing basement walls include neglecting proper insulation, insufficient moisture management, and poor ventilation. Not addressing these issues can lead to mold growth, water damage, and discomfort. Additionally, inadequate planning, improper framing, and rushing the project can result in subpar outcomes. </p><p>It's essential to follow best practices, seek professional guidance if needed, and prioritize thoroughness and attention to detail.</p></div>

Q: How long should you wait after a new build to finish a basement?

• <div><p>You should plan on waiting at least a year and ideally two to three years after construction before finishing your basement. This will give the foundation time to settle in response to the weight of your home and the expansion of the surrounding soil. You can then repair your foundation and seal any cracks as needed before finishing it to reduce your risk of future leaks or other issues.</p></div>

Q: Can you turn a regular basement into a walkout basement?

• <div><p>Yes, it is possible to turn a regular basement into a walkout basement. Doing so involves excavating the land around at least one side of your <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/basement-foundation.htm">basement foundation</a>, installing retaining walls to create a permanent below-grade area outside your home, and then cutting into the foundation to install an exterior door that leads out to the new space. This is an expensive and time-consuming project, but it can add a lot of value and utility to your home.</p></div>

Enter your zip and get matched with up to 5 pros

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

Select your specific project to find the pro for you.

Verified Reviews for Basement Remodel pros in Tompkins, NY

*The Angi rating for Basement Remodel companies in Tompkins, 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 Tompkins, 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 April 22, 2024

Reviewed in April 2024
They completed a basement sealing and painting job for me and did a beautiful job.
Transformation Construction, LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in January 2024
My 1900 home now has a beautifully remodeled master bathroom! Aaron was great about working with my hectic schedule and the job turned out so much better than I ever couldve imagined!
Aaron Delgado
Request a quote
Reviewed in May 2022
This was by far the best experience with a company I've had! I highly recommend Highlander Waterproofing. We received clear and concise communication throughout the entire project. All the info and system was clearly explained at an understandable level. Brandon did an awesome job when he came...
Highlander Waterproofing, Inc
Request a quote
Reviewed in January 2022
Matt and Stacy did an amazing job with my bathroom remodel. They are professional, reliable and affordable.
HGM Electrical Service, LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in August 2021
The Super intendant was always available and their crew did a Fabulous job on our Now very large deck. I highly recommend this Company for all of my remodel needs!!!
RPC Custom Builders LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in March 2021
Look NO further. Excellent work and completely trustworthy. We have used Danny for many things over the years. From painting, to Lawncare, to remodeling our living room and kitchen. His work is exceptional and he is great at getting returning calls, texts, etc. Recommend 100%
DJR Land & Lawncare
Request a quote
Reviewed in May 2020
I knew I was going to hire Dave the first time I met him. When I asked him if I could see his certifications and proof of insurance for both himself and the subcontractors he uses his reply was Let me go get it. They are all in my truck. Of the 3 contractors I interviewed for this project...
D.E. NOLAN
Request a quote
Reviewed in March 2016
I hired Picture Perfect to work on two bathrooms in my mother's home. I'm located out of state, so it was important to find someone I could trust to do good work and also ensure my mother was pleased throughout the entire process. My wife and I often rely on AngiesList reviews when choosing a...
PPHI
Request a quote
Reviewed in February 2016
My house had some plumbing issues some electrical issues and United construction and remodeling took care of all of this we couldn't be happier <br />
United Construction and Remodeling
Request a quote
Reviewed in December 2014
Well the first crew were an unprofessional group of young men.They put in the trac around the lowere wall alright, But the work was sloppy,they had gaps between the tracs,did not have pieces against the wall,installed two pumps that we are supposed to keep priming(we have been told by another ...
Mid-Atlantic Waterproofing of PA
Request a quote

Find Basement remodelers in Tompkins

Riven Run Contracting LLC

5.0(

)

Serving Tompkins, NY and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2025

Free estimates

Warranties offered

"He is great with everything."

+17

3 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by33%of homeowners

Request Quote

FITANDFINISH CONSTRUCTION LLC

2.9(

)

Serving Tompkins, NY and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2015

Free estimates

Offers commercial services

"Professional, reliable, and high-quality work. The project was completed on time, communication was excellent, and the attention to detail really stood out. Highly recommend!"

+22

145 neighbors recently requested a quote

Serving Tompkins, NY and surrounding areas

In business since 1999

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Great. The job was nicely done within the contract specifications as originally written."

Recommended by96%of homeowners

Request Quote

Rost Construction, LLC

4.7(

)

Serving Tompkins, NY and surrounding areas

In business since 2016

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"They were reasonably priced for the amount of siding work that was requested in the bid. They and their team Jack who did the work was very knowledgeable and friendly. He was a very hard worker and completed the job in only 2 days and did a spotless clean up when he was finished with the job. You will not be disappointed if you hire their team of professionals."

+22

Response time10 hrs

Response rate90%

Recommended by88%of homeowners

Request Quote

Atlas James Construction & Fabrication

4.6(

)

Serving Tompkins, NY and surrounding areas

In business since 2022

Free estimates

"Everything is going great! I met with John, Stephen & Sabrina multiple times and their vision and understanding is always aligned with mine. They really make you their #1 priority which to me is really important. Ive hired other contractors that were extremely unprofessional and put other projects between and ahead of mine even though Id been under contract prior to them. I feel confident with Atlas James and excited to finally have found real professionals to get our projects done!"

Recommended by90%of homeowners

Request Quote

PARLOR CITY DRYWALL & PAINTING, Inc.

3.8(

)

Serving Tompkins, NY and surrounding areas

In business since 1984

Free estimates

"We hired Marc and Parlor City Construction to enlarge our living room, by installing a LVL beam in the ceiling, replacing/rerouting electric outlet, reworking our floor to match and drywall and plaster our entire living room ceiling. The job was completed very professionally, on time service and at a reasonable cost. Each and every employee of Parlor City Construction was professional, congenial and trustworthy. We will in the future be hiring Parlor City Construction for further remodeling of our home."

+14

Recommended by75%of homeowners

Request Quote

Goodrich Custom Contracting

5.0(

)

Serving Tompkins, NY and surrounding areas

Free estimates

"Absolutely fantastic, amazing attention to detail, very personable and down to earth, made sure he did the job to exactly how my wife envisioned if not far beyond what she was could’ve hoped for, 10/10 recommend for any type of renovation/remodel. Cannot wait for the next project I have to be done by him."

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Request Quote

KMK Custom Construction

3.8(

)

Serving Tompkins, NY and surrounding areas

In business since 2001

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"they went the extra mile... for my water heater replacement... treated us with respect...and did professional work... very quickly... you will not... go wrong...with this company... thank you... norman r..."

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Request Quote

River run contracting

5.0(

)

Serving Tompkins, NY and surrounding areas

In business since 2016

Free estimates

"It was wonderful. They made sure they cleaned. They were quick and got things done fast."

+10

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Serving Tompkins, NY 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

Request Quote

...

Showing 1-10 of 55

Basement Remodel questions, answered by experts

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.

A finished basement must have a heat and electrical supply with an entrance that meets building code requirements, such as a stairwell to the home's main living space. It often must include finished walls, ceilings, and floors. If the finished basement includes a bedroom, it should have a heat source, an egress window, and a closet.

Remodeling, as opposed to finishing, means altering an already finished basement by adding a bathroom, bedroom, or living area.

Common mistakes when finishing basement walls include neglecting proper insulation, insufficient moisture management, and poor ventilation. Not addressing these issues can lead to mold growth, water damage, and discomfort. Additionally, inadequate planning, improper framing, and rushing the project can result in subpar outcomes.

It's essential to follow best practices, seek professional guidance if needed, and prioritize thoroughness and attention to detail.

You should plan on waiting at least a year and ideally two to three years after construction before finishing your basement. This will give the foundation time to settle in response to the weight of your home and the expansion of the surrounding soil. You can then repair your foundation and seal any cracks as needed before finishing it to reduce your risk of future leaks or other issues.

Yes, it is possible to turn a regular basement into a walkout basement. Doing so involves excavating the land around at least one side of your basement foundation, installing retaining walls to create a permanent below-grade area outside your home, and then cutting into the foundation to install an exterior door that leads out to the new space. This is an expensive and time-consuming project, but it can add a lot of value and utility to your home.

The Tompkins, 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
•
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.
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
•
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.
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.