Basement Renovation in Orleans

Ottawa's east end suburban community with family-friendly neighbourhoods and diverse housing from the 1970s to present.

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Neighbourhoods We Serve in Orleans

✓ Avalon

✓ Fallingbrook

✓ Springridge

✓ Chapel Hill

✓ Convent Glen

✓ Queenswood Heights

About Orleans Homes

Development Era

1970-present

Peak building: 1985-2000

Typical Styles

Two-storey
Split-level
Bungalow
Semi-detached

Average Home Size

1,600-2,800 sq ft

Mix of single-family homes, semis, and townhouses. Older areas feature 1970s-80s homes while newer areas have modern 2000s+ construction.

Area History

Orleans developed rapidly from the 1970s onward, transforming from a small French-Canadian farming community into one of Ottawa's largest suburbs.

Foundation Types in Orleans

Primary Poured concrete

Secondary Concrete block (older sections)

Most Orleans homes have poured concrete foundations. Older 1970s-80s areas may have concrete block.

Common Issues to Address

Some efflorescence in older homes
Minor settling in clay areas
Water infiltration during spring thaw

Asbestos Considerations in Orleans

Risk Level LOW-MEDIUM

Probability in area homes: 35% (homes 1970-1990)

Homes built before 1990 may contain asbestos materials. Post-1990 construction is generally asbestos-free.

Common Asbestos-Containing Materials

Floor tiles (1970s-80s)
Pipe insulation
Some ceiling textures

We include asbestos testing in our assessment process and coordinate professional abatement when needed.

Orleans Basement Characteristics

Typical Ceiling Height

7'6" - 9'0"

Underpinning: Rarely required - adequate ceiling heights

Typical Condition

Many partially finished with 1990s-style rec rooms. Good structural condition overall.

Common Issues

Dated 1990s finishes
Some moisture in spring
Basic builder finishes in newer homes

Soil & Drainage in Orleans

Soil Type

Leda Clay

Water Table

Moderate to High

Orleans sits on Leda clay with moderate to high water table in some areas.

Drainage: Sump pumps common and recommended.

Investment Potential in Orleans

Average Home Price

$550,000 - $850,000

Basement Renovation ROI

70-80%

Rental Suite Potential

$1,300 - $1,800/month for legal secondary suite

Family-focused market values finished basements. LRT extension increasing property values.

Renovation Considerations for Orleans

Many homes have existing rough-ins for basement bathrooms

Good ceiling heights in most 1990s+ homes

Strong rental demand from families

Permits & Regulations

Standard City of Ottawa permits. Secondary suites permitted throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions: Orleans Basements

Are Orleans basements prone to flooding?

Some areas can experience moisture during spring thaw. Proper sump pumps and grading help manage this.

Can I add a basement apartment?

Yes, secondary suites are permitted with strong rental demand in the area.

About Orleans

Family-oriented community with excellent schools and parks. Place d'Orleans shopping nearby. LRT extension underway.

Basement Overview: Orleans

Predominantly 1980s-2000s construction with standard 8-foot basement ceilings. Good candidates for full finishing.

Typical Basement Age: 20-45 years

Why Choose Electrical Ottawa in Orleans?

Local Expertise

We understand the unique characteristics of Orleans homes and basements, from foundation types to local building requirements.

20+ Years Experience

Our team has completed hundreds of basement projects across Ottawa, including many in Orleans.

WSIB Insured

Full workplace safety coverage protects you and our team throughout your renovation project.

Permit Handling

We manage all City of Ottawa permit applications and inspections for your Orleans project.

Also Serving Nearby Areas

The Glebe Westboro Kanata Barrhaven Nepean Ottawa Central

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