John PerryFinding the best basement renovation in Philadelphia starts with knowing what your lower level actually needs. Some homes need moisture control first, while others are ready for framing, flooring, lighting, and a full living-space upgrade.
I also know that basement work can overlap with bigger property projects, from structural help from masonry contractors to outdoor drainage planning with interlocking paver experts.
To make the search easier, I focused on local builders who can turn underused basements into practical, comfortable rooms without ignoring cost, timelines, or long-term durability. Check out my picks below!
How much do basement renovations cost in Philadelphia?
Basement remodeling in Philadelphia typically averages around $32,832, though the final investment depends on the project scale, moisture control needs, finishes, and structural amenities.
| Project Type / Factor | Estimated Cost Range |
| Average Cost | $32,832 |
| Basic Finish | Starts around $30,000 |
| Mid-Range with Bathroom | $45,000 – $70,000 |
| High-End Transformation | $100,000+ |
| Small Basement Finish (500 sq. ft.) | $17,500 – $37,500 |
| Bathroom Addition | $9,000 – $16,000 |
| Permits | $1,160 – $1,350 |
1. Mr. Contractor
Website: https://www.mrcontractorinc.com/
Address: 2634 Frankford Ave
Contact: (215) 423-5525
Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Taking on a basement project feels less stressful when one team can handle the whole thing, and that’s where Mr. Contractor stood out to me.
This 5th-generation, family-owned business has been around since 1949. Their full-service setup covers planning, construction, and finishing without requiring homeowners to juggle multiple vendors.
I had them quote a lower-level media room idea, and the in-home consultation felt organized and easy to follow. I also liked that they focused on how the space would actually be used instead of pushing a generic layout.
On the downside, their experience and project management can put them above budget-focused bids, and weekday-only hours may not work for every homeowner.
Still, their clean job sites and steady scheduling make them a dependable choice for more involved renovations.
Customer Reviews
Turned it into paradise
Our experience with Mr. Contractor was great as always. We have known Ken for a very long time, and we are always pleased with their work. Every major job that we have had done to our house has always been with Ken and the crew. Our new basement looks amazing. They changed our former basement and garage and turned it into paradise. I basically told him what I wanted and he made it happen above my expectations.
- Lisa Irick | Google Review
Professional, timely, courteous
My siblings and I got together to remodel the kitchen of our childhood family home. Mr. Contractor was the best decision I ever made. They were professional, timely, courteous, and transparent throughout the entire process. It was a project that involved tearing down the entire back wall, new floors, siding, wiring, new basement stairs, drywall, and paint. They are worth every penny.
- Lynette Tucker | Google Review
2. Basement Gurus
Website: https://basementwaterproofinggurus.com/
Address: 431 Rhawn St
Contact: (800) 834-6584
Hours: Monday-Saturday, 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Basement Gurus makes the most sense if you suspect water problems are part of the renovation. Their fix-first-then-finish approach is practical because a beautiful basement will not last if moisture or hydrostatic pressure continues to push through the foundation.
I like that they combine waterproofing, mold cleanup, drainage work, and remodeling into a single process. For older Philadelphia properties, this can save a lot of back-and-forth between separate contractors.
Their lifetime warranty on installed systems is also reassuring, especially for homeowners who have already dealt with repeated leaks.
I just found their diagnostic process to be inefficient. A structural water solution may not always catch a plumbing-related source right away. Their post-service disputes also feel less flexible than some clients expect.
Nonetheless, their 24/7 emergency availability and financing options make them a strong pick for damp or unfinished basements.
Customer Reviews
The basement looks great
I had Basement Gurus do a whole lot of work in our new home: mold removal, waterproofing, and then basement remodel as well. The basement looks great. We had a recurring moisture issue, and the owner, Dan Kelly, came out to my residence personally to come to a resolution on how to address this again.
- Alyssa Maruca | Google Review
Above satisfied with the outcome
The crew that worked on our basement was extremely hard working. They did not stop till after dark every night. I am above satisfied with the outcome of the complete job they did. The basement is safe now. I would highly recommend them. I cannot say how grateful I am that the guys took pride in their workmanship.
- Jill Gervasio | Google Review
3. Home Renovations
Website: https://www.homerenovationsllc.net/
Address: 3544 Sunnyside Ave
Contact: (267) 312-6795
Hours: Monday-Saturday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Home Renovations stands out for homeowners who want straightforward pricing before the work begins.
Their no-hidden-fees approach is useful when a basement project includes several moving parts, from mold remediation and drywall to flooring, lighting, and finishing details.
Their broader background in interior and exterior remodeling also helps when the basement connects to other repair needs.
I like that they offer free in-home consultations, too. This gives you a chance to walk through the space and talk through the layout before committing.
They could improve on consistency, though. Some past clients have mentioned that timelines shift and that minor finishing items need follow-up after the main work is done.
However, for budget-conscious homeowners, their accessible pricing, financing options, and willingness to guide the project make them worth considering.
Customer Reviews
My basement came out great
I had Frank and his guys remodel my basement. It came out great. I had an issue with plumbing in my downstairs bathroom as well, and he sent the guys back out and knocked it out free of charge. I finally found somebody I can trust to work at my house.
- Ronald Williams | Google Review
Did an amazing job
Home Renovations did an amazing job. They were on time and got the job done in a timely manner. He assured me everything would turn out beautiful, and it sure did. Great pricing as well. You show them a quote you received for fixing something and they will beat it if you work with them!
- Christine Marie | Google Review
4. Murtagh Bros Inc
Website: https://murtaghconstruction.com/
Address: 31 Bishop Hollow Rd., Newtown Square
Contact: (610) 359-1979
Hours: Monday-Sunday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Murtagh Bros Inc feels like a good fit for homeowners who want hands-on oversight and more custom work.
Since 1995, this family-operated contractor has handled basement remodeling projects ranging from in-law suites to home theaters. With this impressive experience, it’s no surprise that they’re comfortable with larger transformations.
One of my colleagues actually hired them for a lower-level gym conversion, and what stood out was the direct owner involvement. That kind of quality control matters when carpentry, masonry, lighting, and layout details all need to line up.
They also rely on skilled in-house tradespeople and durable materials, which help achieve long-term results.
The catch is that initial estimates may sometimes be based on remote data rather than an immediate site visit. Follow-up communication can also vary, so I’d keep written notes on scope and timing.
Still, their on-budget record makes them appealing for complex builds.
5. Evolution 12
Website: https://evolution12.us/basement-remodeling
Address: 3103 Philmont Ave #314, Huntingdon Valley
Contact: (833) 752-2550
Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Evolution 12 is geared toward homeowners who want a full lower-level conversion rather than a light cosmetic refresh.
They handle the process from permits to infrastructure upgrades, including heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), which is helpful when the goal is a livable suite, office, or entertainment space.
Their ability to start construction within a few weeks of estimate approval is a major advantage if you want the project to move quickly. I also like that they have experience with thousands of completed jobs, which gives their operation a more structured feel.
Just a heads up: Their projects usually start around $25,000, so they are not ideal for small updates. They also lean more on external design partners than on in-house layout services, but their execution side is strong.
Customer Reviews
Quality work and attentive attitude
The company Evolution 12 deserves excellent reviews from most customers. Thanks to the quality work and attentive attitude to the wishes and requirements of customers. I recommend this company as reliable and responsible for its work.
- Edward Kremer | Google Review
Consistently delivered excellent results
Professional, reliable, and efficient. They completed multiple projects on my properties, including general renovation work, and consistently delivered excellent results. Quality workmanship, clear communication, and on-time completion. Constantine is an amazing guy to work with: knowledgeable, responsive, and genuinely cares about doing the job right.
- Alex Pugachov | Google Review
