Address Moisture Issues

• Correcting moisture problems is important. Never spend time or money redoing a space that is damp or conducive to mold growth. You might need to hire a professional to correct major moisture problems. However, in many cases, a wall compound rolled onto cinder blocks can make a big difference. Special types of drywall can be added to keep moisture down, too.
  
  

Plan Plumbing and Electrical Needs

• New wiring and plumbing may be needed. If you plan to build a bathroom, laundry room or family room with a wet bar, for example, you will need to route electrical wiring and new plumbing. Consider this as you sketch rooms or storage areas you want to build. Visit building authorities to inquire about permits needed and any restrictions.
  
  

Carve Out a Living Space

• It's a good idea to sketch a large room first. Plan a family room at the bottom of the basement stairs, for example, before figuring out a laundry or storage room. Living space should be calculated first so hallways or placement of an exterior walk-out door can be planned around living space. You might want to use small nooks or cramped spaces for storage if basement area is limited.
  
  

Incorporate a Bath Area

• Make a bathroom a priority. The basement will be more user-friendly if visitors have a bath area on that level. Even if you add just a toilet and sink, this is better than no bathroom at all. Toilets that flush upward can be purchased for the remodel if installing a drain will be difficult. Consider installing a bathroom near a basement laundry room so water pipes will serve both areas easily.
  
  

Add Laundry Space and Storage

• Utility areas will help keep the house neat. Build a laundry room and large storage room, for example. Having room to deal with laundry and clutter in a basement area works well for many families. If you have a family room nearby in the basement, this will make it practical to do laundry while relaxing or watching television. Take time to construct great shelving and cabinets for a storage room so that household clutter and supplies can be stored neatly in the basement.