A basement apartment is a living space underneath the ground floor of a building. Basement apartments are more familiar in places where the above-ground space for building limited and the rent is high. Each basement apartment is considered a separate housekeeping unit. Usually it contains independent cooking, eating, living, sleeping and sanitary facilities. Even though basement apartments are also called second suites or accessory apartments, law suits attach more significance to the basement location.
A few safety measures are to be considered while constructing basement apartments. Separate entrances are to be maintained for each residential unit. There should be an emergency exit door or window. Security is a major concern in a basement area. A burglar alarm is to be set up. As per the rules for construction of basement apartments, minimum sizes for rooms and ceiling height are to be retained. The floor area of basement apartments should be less than that in the main building.
The apartment is to be fire protected with walls, floors and ceilings covered in fireproof materials. Inter-connected smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are other required peculiarities. Proper installation and insulation of electrical accessories ensure safety. Heaters are used to keep the living area warm in the winter. An adequate supply of water is a primary requirement of basement apartments. The basement area usually has stairs leading up to the main level.
The building must be planned to provide a bright and airy environment. The courtyard or terrace gives the occupants a sense of attachment with the outer world. Ample parking space is another necessity of the basement apartment tenant. Fully furnished bedrooms, access to laundry services, cable TV and Internet, a large kitchen and dining room, bathrooms and fireplaces are some other possible features.
Basement apartments are to be constructed with care, and safety measures must be given top priority. A well-designed basement apartment can be a delight to live in.
