Pre-design service only — AI concept packages are not permit-ready plans. Need permit-ready drawings? See Design Services →
Basement Finish
Floor plan options, egress check, structural flag, and permit scope. Staff reviewed in 24 hours.
All onsite installation and build work is performed by your contractor of record. Kealee provides AI design, final design packages, permit filing, advisory, and contractor matching services only.
Package includes
- AI-generated basement floor plan (2–3 layout options)
- Egress window compliance check for your jurisdiction
- Ceiling height assessment and recommendations
- Structural column and beam layout noting
- Electrical panel access compliance check
- HVAC zoning and ventilation assessment
- Permit path and estimated timeline for your county
Your Project Journey
AI Concept Package
Start here. See your project before anything is built.
Starting at $395Contractor Match
Optional. Match with verified contractors who bid on your scope.
See contractor network →Unfinished basement → Finished living space with egress
Before
AfterChoose your package
All packages start with AI concept. Upgrade or add services at any step.
AI Basement Concept
1 feedback round · 24–48 hours
2–3 layout options with egress check, permit scope, and cost band.
- 2–3 layout options
- Egress compliance check
- HVAC + electrical assessment
- Permit scope
- Cost band estimate
Advanced Basement Design
Up to 3 feedback rounds · 5–7 business days
Detailed design with finishes, built-ins, and contractor-ready scope.
- Everything in AI Concept
- Detailed finish direction
- Built-in and wet bar options
- MEP rough-in plan
- 60-min consultation
Full Basement Design
Up to 5 rounds · 2–3 weeks
Permit-ready drawings, egress specifications, and full contractor documents.
- Everything in Advanced
- Permit-ready drawings
- Egress specifications
- MEP coordination
- Contractor bid documents
How it works
Submit photos + dimensions
Upload photos of your unfinished basement including the electrical panel, HVAC system, and all walls.
Concept delivered (24–48 hrs)
2–3 floor plan options that respect egress, structural, and mechanical constraints.
Permits filed (required)
Basement finishing requires permits in virtually all DMV jurisdictions. We prepare and file your complete package.
Contractor match
Matched with verified basement finishing contractors who bid on your specific scope.
About this service
Basement finishing projects are among the most permit-sensitive in the DMV. Egress window requirements, ceiling height minimums, electrical panel access, and HVAC zoning all affect what you can build. Our AI concept checks all of these and delivers layout options in 24 hours.
Who this is for
Homeowners in the DC/Maryland/Virginia metro area who want to finish their basement and need to understand what is feasible before hiring a contractor.
Common questions
Does finishing a basement always require a permit?
Yes, in virtually all DMV jurisdictions. Framing, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC work in a basement requires permits and inspections.
What is an egress window and do I need one?
An egress window is a minimum-size window that allows emergency exit. If your basement will have a bedroom, virtually all DMV jurisdictions require one.
My basement has low ceilings. Can it still be finished?
Minimum ceiling height requirements vary by jurisdiction (typically 7'0" finished). Your report will check your specific measurements against your county's requirements.
How much does basement finishing cost in the DMV?
Typical range is $35–$65 per square foot depending on scope and finishes.
Ready to get started?
No commitment beyond this order. Every service is separate and optional. Stop at any step.
Starting at $395 · one-time · no subscription