How much does it cost to finish a basement in the Denver metro?
A full basement finish averages $80 per square foot. Bathrooms add $12,000 and up each, and custom features get priced on top of that. Those are averages, not a quote: every project gets a written, itemized estimate, free, before any commitment.
Do you pull permits for basement finishing?
Always. Every Saw Dog basement is permitted and inspected with your city. It protects your home's value, your insurance coverage, and your resale. Our permit history is public record on BuildZoom if you'd like to verify our track record.
How long does a basement finish take?
A typical full basement finish takes 6 to 10 weeks from permit approval to final inspection, depending on scope. We give you a schedule up front and communicate at every phase.
Are bathrooms included in the base price?
No. The $80 per square foot average covers the base finish: framing, insulation, electrical, plumbing and HVAC rough-in, drywall, paint, trim and flooring. A bathroom adds $12,000 and up on top of that, because it brings its own plumbing fixtures, tile and ventilation. Your written estimate lists the two separately so you can see exactly where the money goes.
What affects the final price?
The big drivers are square footage, whether you add a bathroom, and the finish level you choose. Custom features like wet bars, built-ins or theater walls are priced individually. Site conditions matter too, such as ceiling height, mechanical layout and what the existing rough-ins look like. The written, itemized estimate accounts for all of it before you commit to anything.
What's included in a full basement finish?
The base scope runs from design and permits through framing, insulation, electrical, plumbing and HVAC, drywall, paint, trim and flooring, ending with the city inspection and a final walkthrough. Bedrooms and living areas are part of that scope. Bathrooms and custom features are built in the same project but priced separately.
Can we stay in the house during construction?
Usually, yes. Basement work keeps most of the disruption downstairs, and we talk through access, dust control and noisy phases before work starts so you know what to expect week to week.
How should we prepare for the work?
Clear out the basement and plan a path from the door we'll use, and we'll cover the rest at the walkthrough. If items need to stay, tell us early so we can plan around them.
Is the work under warranty?
Yes. Our work is backed by a 2-year workmanship warranty, and the written warranty terms come with your contract so you can read exactly what's covered.
