Once height requirements are met, there is still the question of doors and windows for emergency escape, or egress. If you turn a basement into a family room or a home theater, you probably won't need the same number of emergency exits that would be required for a couple of bedrooms. Although products are available for just this situation, the builder may have to cut through concrete walls to create a larger opening. Stairways also can be a problem. Older stairways may not meet these requirements and might have to be replaced, adding to the cost of the project.
Some contractors recommend new staircases anyway to make a remodeled basement more inviting.
Eldrenkamp says inspectors in his area will accept a lower riser on the first step, but that's also a point to check with the building inspector's office. Click here for books about room decoration. Privacy policy .