Frequently Asked Questions

How long has penguin basements been in business?

Penguin Basements was founded in 2011 by Guy Solomon to bring a standard of process and professionalism to a burgeoning industry.  Learning from past experiences on both the professional and personal side, Guy believed that a company should rise above the competition by employing higher build standards, utilizing more suitable materials, and implementing a proven build process (similar to that employed by housing developers) to deliver a better basement in terms of design, functionality, quality, and durability. With over 1500 basements build Ontario wide, we have perfected our quality basement solutions for any budget.

 

 

Do I need a permit to renovate a basement?

It is recommended to always get a building permit for any home renovation. Penguin Basements maintains close relationships with local municipalities, and has a magnitude of experience dealing with permit issues and planning.

 

 

Does Penguin Basements build legal basement apartments?

Penguin Basements has built hundreds of legal basements apartments Ontario-wide. We specialize in designing basements that maximize the space and create a comfortable and legally permitted secondarily living space. All our basement apartments are built to code with required municipal bylaws including egressed windows, increased fire separation, separate entrances and more.

Does Penguin Basements provide a warranty for a completed basements?

As BILD members we offer a Renomark™ recognized 2-year Service Warranty. This becomes valid from the date of your project completion, as outlined in your project completion package. We pride ourselves on building your basement primarily out of mold-free, non-organic materials for the walls and floors that carry a Limited Lifetime Warranty. Our warranties are all transferable which helps maximize the resale value of your investment. We want our customers to share the peace of mind that comes from building their basement with durable materials that promote sustainable construction and industry-leading value!

 

 

Will finishing my basement add value to my home?

Yes! A finished basement makes a home more desirable, and it also adds value to your home. Typically homes with a finished basement sell for more on the market, while providing a better quality of life while you remain at the home.

 

Does penguin basements offer financing?

We offer in-house financing and have some great partnerships with the major banks. You can finance for the short-term with our no interest option for 12 months* or commit to a longer term for as little as a special interest rate. And all our plans offer the benefit of open payments, wherein you can pay down the financing faster with no penalties. Offers and discounts are offered O.A.C. and cannot be combined. Pre-authorized payments may be required, and financing limits may apply. Talk to your Penguin Basements representative for details, and we’ll build the basement of your dreams with affordable monthly payments.

 

 

What is the best time of year to renovate your basement?

Like most indoor construction projects, basement renovations do not depend on the weather or season. The non-toxic materials and low VOC paint does not require airing the space during or after renovation. There is no advantage of doing it in warmer or cooler weather or any specific season.

Can I get my basement partially finished and do the rest myself?

Penguin Basements offers a revolutionary new approach to basement renovations. The Penguin F.Y.I solution (Finish it yourself). Penguin does all the dirty work, such as framing, boarding, taping and initial sanding, using mold-resistant products specifically developed for the unique subterranean environment in which they will be deployed.  We also provide rough-ins for the bathroom of your choice, leaving you free to design, paint and finish your finished basement to your individual taste and budget.

 

 

Does Penguin Basements subcontract their trades or is their labour in house?

A key factor in the quality and consistency at Penguin Basements is our labour. By bringing our trades, in-house contractors we are better able to control the quality of work and timelines within our basement builds.

 

Do you provide a final cleaning after the job is finished?

Your basement isn’t finished until we clean it. While some contractors might leave dirt, debris and construction waste, we have a professional cleaning crew dispatched to your home immediately following the final inspection. This means you get to enjoy your new basement quicker, without the hassle of cleaning it yourself.