Planning a basement suite in Saskatoon? Here's a detailed breakdown of what you can expect to pay in 2026, from basic finishing to a fully-legal rental suite with separate entrance.
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Quick Cost Summary
The cost of a basement suite in Saskatoon depends primarily on the scope of work, finish level, and whether you're building a legal suite. Here are the typical ranges:
| Project Type | Cost per Sq Ft | 700 Sq Ft Example |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Development | $50 - $65 | $35,000 - $45,500 |
| Mid-Range Finish | $65 - $85 | $45,500 - $59,500 |
| Legal Suite (Standard) | $80 - $110 | $56,000 - $77,000 |
| Premium Legal Suite | $100 - $130 | $70,000 - $91,000 |
SSI Grant Savings
Remember: the SSI Grant covers 35% of eligible costs (up to $35,000). A $77,000 legal suite would qualify for approximately $26,950 back, making your net cost around $50,050.
What's Included in Each Level?
Basic Development ($50-65/sq ft)
Basic basement development without full suite amenities:
- Framing and drywall
- Basic electrical (lights, outlets)
- Standard flooring (laminate or vinyl plank)
- Basic paint
- One bathroom (3-piece)
- No kitchen
- No separate entrance
Note: This level does NOT qualify for the SSI Grant because it lacks a full kitchen and separate entrance.
Mid-Range Finish ($65-85/sq ft)
Better finishes but may not meet legal suite requirements:
- Quality framing and drywall
- Upgraded electrical
- Luxury vinyl plank flooring
- Quality paint and trim
- Full bathroom (4-piece)
- Kitchenette or partial kitchen
- May or may not have separate entrance
Legal Suite - Standard ($80-110/sq ft)
Meets all requirements for a legal, rentable secondary suite:
- Full kitchen (cabinets, countertops, sink, stove, fridge)
- Full bathroom (4-piece)
- Separate entrance with concrete landing
- Bedroom(s) with egress windows
- Fire separation from main dwelling
- Dedicated HVAC system or zone
- Smoke and CO detectors
- Sound insulation
- All permits and inspections
Premium Legal Suite ($100-130/sq ft)
High-end finishes that command top rental rates:
- Custom kitchen with stone countertops
- Stainless steel appliances package
- Tile bathroom with modern fixtures
- Engineered hardwood or premium LVP
- Custom trim and built-ins
- In-suite laundry
- Premium lighting fixtures
- Smart home features
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Request Free QuoteDetailed Cost Breakdown
Here's what goes into a typical 750 sq ft legal basement suite in Saskatoon:
| Category | Low Estimate | High Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Framing & Insulation | $6,000 | $10,000 |
| Drywall & Finishing | $5,000 | $9,000 |
| Electrical | $7,000 | $12,000 |
| Plumbing | $8,000 | $15,000 |
| HVAC | $4,000 | $8,000 |
| Kitchen (cabinets, counters, sink) | $8,000 | $18,000 |
| Appliances | $3,000 | $6,000 |
| Bathroom | $6,000 | $12,000 |
| Flooring | $4,500 | $9,000 |
| Paint & Trim | $3,000 | $6,000 |
| Separate Entrance | $5,000 | $12,000 |
| Egress Windows | $3,000 | $6,000 |
| Fire Separation | $2,000 | $4,000 |
| Permits & Inspections | $2,500 | $4,000 |
| TOTAL | $67,000 | $131,000 |
Net Cost After SSI Grant
Here's what your actual out-of-pocket cost looks like after the SSI Grant:
| Project Cost | SSI Grant (35%) | Your Net Cost |
|---|---|---|
| $70,000 | -$24,500 | $45,500 |
| $85,000 | -$29,750 | $55,250 |
| $100,000 | -$35,000 (max) | $65,000 |
| $120,000 | -$35,000 (max) | $85,000 |
How Long Does It Take?
Typical timelines for a legal basement suite in Saskatoon:
- Permits: 2-4 weeks
- Demolition & Framing: 1-2 weeks
- Rough-ins (electrical, plumbing, HVAC): 1-2 weeks
- Inspections: 1 week (scheduled between stages)
- Insulation & Drywall: 2-3 weeks
- Finishing (flooring, paint, trim): 2-3 weeks
- Kitchen & Bathroom: 1-2 weeks
- Final Inspections: 1 week
Total: 10-16 weeks from permit application to move-in ready.
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