Basement Renovation in Westboro

Trendy urban village combining heritage charm with modern infill development, known for boutique shopping on Richmond Road and proximity to the Ottawa River.

Get Free Estimate

Neighbourhoods We Serve in Westboro

✓ Westboro

✓ Westboro Village

✓ Island Park

✓ McKellar Park

About Westboro Homes

Development Era

1900-1950 (original), 2000-present (infill)

Peak building: 1920-1940 and 2010-present

Typical Styles

Edwardian
Craftsman Bungalow
Post-war
Modern Infill

Average Home Size

1,800-3,000 sq ft (heritage), 2,500-4,000 sq ft (infill)

Diverse housing stock ranging from original 1920s bungalows to brand-new infill homes. The contrast creates a varied streetscape with different basement conditions depending on build era.

Area History

Westboro began as a separate village in the 1890s, amalgamating with Ottawa in 1949. The original village centre along Richmond Road retains its small-town character. Significant infill development since the 2000s has added modern homes while preserving the neighbourhood's eclectic mix.

Foundation Types in Westboro

Primary Poured concrete (newer), Stone/rubble (older)

Secondary Concrete block, Brick

Foundation types vary significantly by era. Original 1900-1950 homes typically have stone, rubble, or early concrete foundations. Modern infill (post-2000) features poured concrete with proper waterproofing.

Common Issues to Address

Older homes: similar issues to Glebe (low ceilings, water, settling)
Infill homes: typically unfinished but ready for development

Asbestos Considerations in Westboro

Risk Level MEDIUM-HIGH

Probability in area homes: 70% (homes pre-1990)

Older Westboro homes (pre-1990) commonly contain asbestos materials. Modern infill homes are asbestos-free. Testing recommended for any home built before 1990.

Common Asbestos-Containing Materials

Vermiculite insulation
Floor tiles
Pipe insulation
Textured ceilings
Exterior siding (some older homes)

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

Westboro Basement Characteristics

Typical Ceiling Height

6'2" - 7'0" (older), 9'0"+ (infill)

Underpinning: High for pre-1950 homes, Not required for modern infill

Typical Condition

Varies widely - older homes often have unfinished, low-ceiling basements; infill homes have modern, high-ceiling spaces ready for finishing

Common Issues

Older: Low ceilings, moisture, dated systems
Infill: Often unfinished by builder, basic finishing only

Soil & Drainage in Westboro

Soil Type

Mixed - Sandy loam to Leda Clay

Water Table

Moderate

Westboro's proximity to the Ottawa River means varied soil conditions. Properties closer to the river may have sandier soil with better drainage, while inland areas sit on typical Ottawa clay.

Drainage: Waterproofing needs vary by specific location. River-adjacent properties may have different drainage requirements.

Investment Potential in Westboro

Average Home Price

$900,000 - $1,600,000

Basement Renovation ROI

70-85%

Rental Suite Potential

$1,700 - $2,300/month for legal secondary suite

Westboro's desirability drives strong returns on basement investments. The neighbourhood attracts buyers willing to pay premium prices for move-in ready homes with finished lower levels.

Renovation Considerations for Westboro

Check if property is original or infill - very different renovation approaches

Some blocks have heritage character guidelines

Infill homes often have builder-basic basements ready for upgrade

Street parking may be limited during construction

High property values justify premium finishing

Permits & Regulations

Standard Ottawa building permits required. Some areas may have site-specific guidelines. Secondary suites are permitted with proper egress, fire separation, and separate services.

Frequently Asked Questions: Westboro Basements

Should I buy a heritage home or infill in Westboro?

From a basement perspective, infill homes offer 9'+ ceilings ready for finishing, while heritage homes often need underpinning. However, heritage homes on larger lots may offer more flexibility for additions. We can assess either type and provide accurate project scoping.

What's involved in finishing an infill basement in Westboro?

Modern Westboro infills typically have 9-foot poured concrete basements with rough-ins for bathroom. Projects usually involve framing, insulation, electrical, plumbing finishing, drywall, flooring, and trim. Timeline is typically 8-12 weeks depending on scope.

Are secondary suites allowed in Westboro?

Yes, secondary suites are permitted throughout Westboro under current zoning. Given the neighbourhood's rental demand and property values, legal basement apartments provide excellent income potential and ROI.

About Westboro

Steps from Ottawa River pathways, Westboro Beach, and Richmond Road shopping. Excellent transit with Dominion LRT station. Popular with young families and professionals. Strong rental market.

Basement Overview: Westboro

Mix of renovated century homes and modern infill construction. Popular with young professionals and families seeking walkable urban lifestyle.

Typical Basement Age: 40-100 years

Why Choose Electrical Ottawa in Westboro?

Local Expertise

We understand the unique characteristics of Westboro 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 Westboro.

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 Westboro project.

Also Serving Nearby Areas

The Glebe Kanata Orleans Barrhaven Nepean Ottawa Central

Ready to Transform Your Westboro Basement?

Get your free instant estimate in 60 seconds. No obligation.