Question 1

How much does basement electrical cost?

Accepted Answer

Typical 1,000 sq ft basement finish electrical: $4,500–$9,000 including permits, subpanel if needed, and full trim.

Question 2

Do I need a subpanel for my basement?

Accepted Answer

Often yes. Adding 20+ circuits (lighting, outlets, HVAC, media) to an already-populated main panel usually calls for a subpanel.

Question 3

How many outlets does a basement need?

Accepted Answer

Code requires one outlet every 12 feet along walls, and one in every hallway. Media rooms and bars need more than minimum.

Question 4

Do basement outlets need to be GFCI?

Accepted Answer

Yes — unfinished basement outlets and any outlet within 6 feet of a sink require GFCI. Finished basement living areas require AFCI.

Question 5

Do I need egress-window lighting?

Accepted Answer

Every basement bedroom needs an egress window and code often requires switched lighting near the escape route.

Question 6

Can you install a bathroom in the basement?

Accepted Answer

Yes — bathroom electrical (GFCI outlet, fan on timer, dedicated lighting circuit) is standard basement finish work.

Question 7

How long does basement electrical take?

Accepted Answer

Rough-in is typically 3–5 days for a 1,000 sq ft basement. Trim after drywall is another 2–3 days.

Question 8

Do you coordinate with my general contractor?

Accepted Answer

Yes — we sequence rough-in, inspection, and trim with framers, drywall, and finishing trades.

Question 9

What about my sump pump — dedicated circuit?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Sump pumps should always be on their own dedicated 15A or 20A circuit, ideally on the backup generator.

Question 10

Can we add a wet bar in the basement finish?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Wet bars need GFCI-protected outlets within 6 feet of the sink, a dedicated fridge circuit, and often a dedicated ice maker circuit.

Basement Electrical Wiring

What's included