Finished Basements: Pros and Cons
Interesting post in Seattle Bubble commenting on the recent P-I article about code compliance for finished basements.
The other thing to consider when evaluating a property with basement living space is whether all that lovely finish work is going to get soaked one winter. This issue has been on my mind lately, thanks to our record-setting November rains. I know at least two houses that experienced water intrusion when the ground just couldn’t absorb anything more.
How can you figure out if you’re buying a potential indoor swimming pool? It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to conclude that if the basement smells moldy and there’s visible water on the floor, you’ve got a problem. But shopping during the summer or in drought years can be less clear cut. Get a good home inspector, check whether the remodeler pulled permits, and use common sense.
