New Canadians may shy away from renting a basement apartment. Many imagine a dark and damp basement with bad living conditions. But this is far from the truth. It may not sound appealing, but in Canada, basements are usually quite nice and no different from any other part of the house. Discover the pros and cons of renting a basement apartment in Canada and if it’s the right option for you!
It’s common for people to start renting a basement apartment, especially if they want to live downtown in high-rent cities such as Toronto and Vancouver. Basement apartments are usually more affordable than one- or two-bedroom apartments.
Pro: Basement Apartments are More Affordable to Rent
If you are new to Canada, you probably want to find affordable housing, especially while you search for a job. In that case, basements will be your best bet. Landlords who rent out basement apartments often live in the home above the basement. As a result, they may charge lower rental prices because they are renting out only a part of their house.
Because basement apartment rental prices are more affordable than other rental options, you can live in a neighbourhood that might otherwise be out of your budget.
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Con: Some Basement Apartments in Canada are Small
Since you only get part of the house, you may have less living space than other types of rental housing. Basement apartments in Canada generally have:
- One or two bedrooms
- One full bathroom
- Kitchen/dining area
- Living room
- Necessary amenities (fridge, stove, washer/dryer, etc)
- Private entry.
If you live alone, or have a small family, basement apartments have more than enough living space. If you have a large family, you might want to look for a larger living space, such as a 2-bedroom apartment.
If you’re searching for a basement apartment in Canada, determine how much space you need. View online listings to get a sense of the space. But, be sure to visit the rental property to inspect it and ensure the size and layout meet your needs.
Also, ask the landlord if utilities such as hydro and water are included in the rent and what amenities are included. Not all basement apartments will have a washer and dryer. So, make sure a laundromat is nearby for convenience.
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Walk-Up versus Walk-Out Basement Apartments in Canada
The two main types of basements are walk-up basements and walk-out basements. This is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a basement apartment.
Walk-Up Basement Apartment
In a walk-up basement apartment, you climb stairs to enter and exit. This type of basement is mostly located below ground and usually offers less natural light.
Walk-Out Basement Apartment
A walk-out basement has an entrance/exit on ground level so you do not need to climb stairs to exit. These basement apartments have an entrance at the back of the house where the backyard is. As a result, walk-out basements have more natural light. Living in a walk-out basement can feel like you live on the ground floor.
Which Basement Apartment is Better for You?
Many people prefer walk-out basements to walk-up basements. Walk-out basements have more natural light, better backyard access, and feel more open. And because of this, you don’t feel like living in a basement. However, finding a walk-out basement is hard because the house needs to be on a slope. So walk-out basements are a find.
If you find a walk-out basement, it may be more expensive than a walk-up basement apartment. However, it is possible to find a well-priced walk-out basement. Just make sure to start your search early.
Walk-up basements are more common. Most rooms will have ground-level windows so you will get natural light. However, the basement apartment you choose depends on your needs and preferences.
Do I Need Tenant Insurance for a Basement Apartment?
Tenant insurance is good to have no matter what type of housing you rent. However, it’s brilliant to have if you rent a basement apartment. The risk of water damage caused by the rental unit above you is higher (water flows downward). So, consider buying 
to protect your contents and valuables and reduce the costs if you have to move out while repairs are done.
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Are Basement Apartments Legal?
Landlords must ensure that the basement apartment meets provincial regulations and standards to ensure it is a safe and appealing living space. But, as a tenant, you should verify the legal status of the rental unit.
Landlords must be able to provide:
- An ESA certificate that indicates the electrical system complies with safety standards.
2. A fire certificate to confirm the basement apartment meets fire safety requirements.
3. A certificate of compliance to prove the basement is registered and compliant with regulations and all city bylaws.
You can file a complaint with the local municipality If a landlord doesn’t provide these documents. Landlords who do not meet compliance standards can face fines of up to $25,000. Regulations and safety features ensure that occupants and neighbourhoods are not at risk of injury, death, or severe damage.
I’m Ready to Buy a Home, Why Should I Rent?
Buying a home in Canada is a long-term commitment and can be more expensive than renting a home. So, it’s smarter to rent before you buy a house in any city. No amount of online neighbourhood or city research will give you as much insight as living in it.
Renting is a shorter-term commitment. And, as the whole country is new to you, you may want to wait until you are certain where you want to live. If you rent in your city of choice before buying a home, you can explore and experience different neighbourhoods.
If you buy a home, you may discover you don’t like the neighbourhood or the city. You may want to move to another city or province for better job opportunities in your field. Relocating to another home, city, or province is expensive. It’s better to take your time before you buy a home.
A basement apartment is a great choice if you want a temporary place. It allows you to gain a sense of the city before you buy a house. A more affordable basement apartment will decrease your living costs while you settle in Canada.
I Don’t Have any Credit History in Canada, Will this be a Problem?
This is a problem that many newcomers in Canada face. And while this can be a stumbling block, you can rent a home in Canada without a credit history. Get tips here to rent a home in Canada without a credit score.
Renting a basement apartment can be an affordable housing solution, offering a beautiful, safe, and comfortable living environment. Explore your options! You may discover a basement apartment is the perfect solution.
My name is Zain Usmani and I am a freelance content writer who currently resides in Mississauga, Ontario. I immigrated from Pakistan to Canada 5 years ago and have lived in many cities ever since. I have lived in Calgary AB, Edmonton AB, Regina SK, London ON, and Mississauga ON, while visiting over 40 Canadian cities and towns. I have a great passion for writing and I love helping people through it.