A finished basement will give you more living and storage space. However, the remodeling process can be quite complicated if you aren’t familiar with the legal requirements surrounding it. The state of New York has several code and design requirements which you must meet before you can begin remodeling. Here are four major aspects you should take into account when designing your basement.

Design Requirements for Finished Basements in New York

1. Egress

If the finished basement space has an area exceeding 200 square feet or has bedrooms, you are required to give inhabitants a means of exiting the space (besides the main entrance) in case of fire or emergency. The egress space must have an open area of at least 5.7 square feet, and the opening itself must have a minimum height of 2 feet and a minimum width of 20 inches. A window sill cannot be more than 44 inches from the floor, and if the window is below grade, the exterior window well must be at least 9 square feet. Bilco doors with a stairway are also an acceptable means of egress.

2. Proper Ventilation & Light

The new basement must also be properly ventilated, either by a window or HVAC system that provides a 0.35 air exchange per hour.  Lighting must come from a glass area equal to 8% of the floor area or artificial lighting that provides 6 foot-candles of illumination 30 inches above the floor. A combination of natural and artificial light is ideal.

3. Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarms

The state requirements for smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are as follows:

• 1 smoke alarm in every bedroom
• 1 smoke alarm outside of every sleeping area
• 1 carbon monoxide alarm outside of each sleeping area
• 1 carbon monoxide alarm in each sleeping area (or attached bath) that contains a fuel burning appliance

4. Ceiling Height

The ceiling height in the living area of the finished basement, must be 7 feet, although beams and girders may project into that space as long as a space of 6 feet and 4 inches is still clear. Storage or non-living areas can have a ceiling height of 6 to 8 feet.

 

 

Work with a licensed contractor to build a finished basement that meets state requirements. Located in Long Island, NY, Home Works Home Improvement offers licensed, bonded, and insured remodeling and contracting services. With 22 years of building experience, they offer customized and affordable remodeling, siding, and gutter solutions for your home. Call (631) 218-0241 for a free estimate or visit their website to learn more about their services.

 

Home Works has received eight super service awards from Angie’s List.