What are the pros and cons of finishing a basement?

• <div><p>When considering finishing your basement, take into account a few pros and cons:</p><p>Pros</p><ul><li><p>Can increase the value of your home</p></li><li><p>Separate space from the rest of the house </p></li><li><p>Customize and personalize the basement to suit your needs and style</p></li><li><p>Increase the amount of living space in your home</p></li></ul><p>Cons</p><ul><li><p>May not regain enough value to cover the cost of finishing</p></li><li><p>Lack of natural light if it’s below ground level</p></li><li><p>Moisture or flooding can cause costly damage</p></li><li><p>Installing plumbing and electrical can be messy and costly</p></li></ul><p></p></div>

Get matched with top basement remodelers in Romney, WV

Q: Is a walkout basement below grade?

• <div><p>A walkout basement is considered to be partially below grade because at least one wall is entirely exposed. In some cases and in specific municipalities, inspectors and appraisers will still count walkout basements as below grade, which means the space can&rsquo;t serve as living space or be rented out. If you intend on using the area as living space or a separate apartment, you should check with your local building department to make sure it&rsquo;s legal to do so.</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: Can you finish a basement with no windows?

• <div><p>Egress windows or doors are required in finished basements to meet safety and building codes. If your basement is unfinished and used as a storage space, egress windows are not required, but anything considered a habitable space must have an additional point of egress in addition to the stairs.</p></div>

Q: Can you put a summer kitchen in the basement?

• <div><p>Yes, you can install a summer kitchen or kitchenette in your basement. They serve similar purposes as outdoor kitchens, keeping the main floor of the house cool and providing another space to cook and congregate. Basement kitchens are also a worthwhile alternative for homeowners without much space in the backyard. They come with a few logistical questions to sort out, though, like ventilation and waterproofing.</p></div>

Enter your zip and get matched with up to 5 pros

Need a pro for your basement remodel project in Romney, WV?

Select your specific project to find the pro for you.

Verified Reviews for Basement Remodel pros in Romney, WV

*The Angi rating for Basement Remodel companies in Romney, WV 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 Romney, WV 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 June 23, 2025

Reviewed in June 2025
They did an amazing job! It was a big painting project and it turned out perfect. Also, the preparation was flawless and they went out of their way to make sure everything was covered. I would definitely use them again.
Nicolle Paint
Request a quote
Reviewed in March 2025
Gabriel and his team did a great job renovating our two upstairs bathrooms. Excellent quality and timely completion. Gabriel and his team were incredibly friendly and were amazing to work with. We’d definitely recommend Gabriel for any future remodeling projects.
Gabriel Remodeling, LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in October 2024
The process was smooth, the crew worked hard, and got the job done. They finished my roof in ONE day. My project coordinator and manager were great as well.
Home Genius Exteriors
Request a quote
Reviewed in August 2024
This was a repair for an older failing wall at the entrance to our basement. The finished project not only matches the rest of the home, but it was done right this time, much stronger than the other guys original work 29 years ago. He has the knowledge and will, to do it right, and got it done...
C Hays Masonry, LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in November 2022
Recently had our roof replaced by Modern Renovations after discovering water stains on our living room ceiling. In a panic mode, I contacted them, and Larry was out the next day. Larry was so thorough with all details of contract, that we had no doubt, this was the company we are using. Roof...
Modern Renovations LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in July 2021
Matt responded right away to our request. We had a very long list of items that needed repairs in addition to resanding our paver patio and a complete garage makeover to include epoxy painting the floors and painting the entire garage. Matt was busy with other projects but made it clear when he...
American Pride Handyman Services, LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in June 2016
After coming home from a vacation and finding our finished basement flooded we used Home Advisor to find help. CARE Property Services responded immediately and did a thorough job of removing the water, and drying out the basement, after removing all furniture and multiple cardboard boxes. ...
C.A.R.E. - Property Services, Inc.
Request a quote
Reviewed in April 2013
Very poor experience and would not consider having any further work performed by this company. Owner was contacted and responded to our house (under construction). Gray's was asked to rough in the first floor for A/C and to determine the cost of a Carrier brand AC unit, and to determine the...
Grays Heating and Air LLC
Request a quote

Find Basement remodelers in Romney

UGC Technologies, LLC

4.9(

)

Basement - Remodel

Serving Romney, WV and surrounding areas

Approved

Super Service Award Winner

In business since 2024

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"We hired UGC to build a 16 foot x 20 foot deck with stairs. My wife and myself had issues in the past with contractors but UGC was very professional and they do great work. No complaints at all. Highly recommend UGC."

Response time9 hrs

Response rate99%

22 neighbors recently requested a quote

Request Quote

Lars Construction LLC

5.0(

)

Basement - Remodel

Serving Romney, WV and surrounding areas

"The work done by Lars Construction LLC was impeccable! They were so helpful from the very first call. I would recommend Lars Construction LLC to anyone seeking great results and quality service."

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Serving Romney, WV 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

Hampton Enterprise LLC

3.7(

)

Basement - Remodel

Serving Romney, WV and surrounding areas

In business since 1989

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"They were good. They were pretty fast and came on time. My overall experience with them has been good."

Recommended by60%of homeowners

Request Quote

Jared Horevay Home Builder Facebook

New to Angi

Basement - Remodel

Serving Romney, WV and surrounding areas

In business since 2005

Credit card accepted

From modern, to rustic, to traditional styled homes, we want to help you build your dream home. We have a great team of craftsman dedicated to the craft of fine homebuilding. Allow us to help guide you through the construction process; from choosing the right piece of land, house plans, financing, to completion of your home, we are ready to work with you. \n\nWe also offer kitchen and bathroom renovation. We can help you design your dream kitchen or bath and work with you to make it happen, within your budget.

Response time1 day

Request Quote

SIMMONS AND SONS CONSTRUCTION LLC

New to Angi

Basement - Remodel

Serving Romney, WV and surrounding areas

In business since 1994

We pride our company on reliability, great communication, integrity, and quality work. We are experts in our trade and will do our best to keep you as educated as we can on your particular task or project. We look forward to earning your business!

Serving Romney, WV and surrounding areas

In business since 2013

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

Renowned Renovations proudly serves its customers with pride, integrity and attention to the details that matter most to you. This is one of the many things that sets us apart from the rest. We are locally owned and operated. Give us a call today!

Serving Romney, WV and surrounding areas

In business since 2010

Credit card accepted

\n\n\n12 years experience

Serving Romney, WV and surrounding areas

In business since 2023

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

A Finer Edge is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers' interests, and make their concerns the basis of our business.

Request Quote

Basement Remodel questions, answered by experts

A walkout basement is considered to be partially below grade because at least one wall is entirely exposed. In some cases and in specific municipalities, inspectors and appraisers will still count walkout basements as below grade, which means the space can’t serve as living space or be rented out. If you intend on using the area as living space or a separate apartment, you should check with your local building department to make sure it’s legal to do so.

When considering finishing your basement, take into account a few pros and cons:

Pros

Can increase the value of your home
Separate space from the rest of the house
Customize and personalize the basement to suit your needs and style
Increase the amount of living space in your home

Cons

May not regain enough value to cover the cost of finishing
Lack of natural light if it’s below ground level
Moisture or flooding can cause costly damage
Installing plumbing and electrical can be messy and costly

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.

Egress windows or doors are required in finished basements to meet safety and building codes. If your basement is unfinished and used as a storage space, egress windows are not required, but anything considered a habitable space must have an additional point of egress in addition to the stairs.

Yes, you can install a summer kitchen or kitchenette in your basement. They serve similar purposes as outdoor kitchens, keeping the main floor of the house cool and providing another space to cook and congregate. Basement kitchens are also a worthwhile alternative for homeowners without much space in the backyard. They come with a few logistical questions to sort out, though, like ventilation and waterproofing.

The Romney, WV 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.