About Basement Apartments

Basement apartments are more popular today than they were in the 1900s. Apartment buildings and businesses often have basement space available. These basement spaces are converted into 1 bedroom, or even studio apartments. Renting a basement apartment is generally a lower cost than living in a standard apartment home.

The poor and disadvantaged once utilized basement apartments. They were illegal and very small spaces that a landlord would use just for an extra income. Tenants would already have the mindset that these quarters would have very little lighting and no proper ventilation. Pest control was a known problem in basement apartments.

Basement apartments are more appealing today. The ventilation is up-to-date and there are heating and cooling capabilities within the unit. There are height and size restrictions, according to the law. The basement apartments, today, have their own bathroom, kitchen, and living areas. You may find some basement apartments that are actually apartments, but mostly they are designed as a studio apartment. The spaces are still somewhat limited, so if you have a lot of stuff to fill your apartment a basement apartment may not be your best option. You will want to take into consideration that you may have to use a stairwell or common entrance in order to reach your apartment.

Most students are interested in occupying basement apartments due to the lower rent. Even if you are required to handle your own utilities, the cost is less than average. Some apartments also have enough room to house two to four tenants comfortably.

To be on the safe side, you may want to check and make sure that your apartment meets the building and fire codes.