Here’s a concise, actionable overview for finishing a basement in Denver, CO — costs, permits/code essentials, steps and contractor tips so you can budget and plan with confidence.

1. Typical cost ranges (Denver)

• Ballpark per‑sq‑ft: expect roughly $40–$120+/sq ft depending on scope:
  • Basic finish (open area, standard finishes): ~$40–70/sq ft. (Archieremodels.com)
  • Mid‑range (separate rooms, bathroom/wet bar, upgraded finishes): ~$70–120/sq ft. (Archieremodels.com)
  • High‑end (luxury baths, kitchenettes, custom millwork, theater): $100–260+/sq ft. (Archieremodels.com)
• Typical total examples: a 1,000 sq ft finished basement often runs from roughly $40k at the low end to $100k+ for mid/high finishes (and more if adding plumbing/kitchen). Permit & inspection fees commonly add a few hundred to a couple thousand dollars. (HomeBlue.com)

2. Permits & code essentials in Denver

• Permits: Denver requires permits for most basement finishing work that affects structure, electrical, plumbing or mechanical systems. Use Denver’s ePermit/Plan Review system to apply; trade permits may be required for electrical/plumbing/heating. Homeowners can apply but contractors often handle permitting. (denvergov.org)
• Building code updates: Denver adopted updated local building/fire codes recently (2025 code adoption effective Dec 31, 2025 — projects submitted earlier may use prior codes). Verify which code edition applies when you submit your permit. (denvergov.org)
• Egress & sleeping rooms: Any basement bedroom (or sleeping room) must have a code‑compliant egress (escape) opening — minimum clear opening size ~5.7 sq ft (varies by code wording), minimum dimensions and sill height limits apply; if you install egress windows you’ll also need proper wells/drainage and likely a permit. Denver also has special review for egress windows on landmark/historic properties. (egressescapewindows.com)
• Ceiling heights, insulation, electrical: Habitable ceiling heights, required insulation/energy compliance and electrical (GFCI, outlet spacing, dedicated circuits) must meet code. Inspections occur at rough (framing/MEP), insulation, and final stages. (apollorenovation.com)

3. Typical scope & cost drivers to budget for

• Waterproofing / moisture fixes (must be done before finishes): $3k–$8k+ depending on work. (thespruce.com)
• Egress window + well: typically $2.5k–6k per opening (site dependent). (thespruce.com)
• Framing, insulation, drywall, paint, flooring, trim, lighting.
• Bathrooms or kitchenettes (plumbing/drainage): add $8k–30k+ depending on fixtures and difficulty. (thespruce.com)

4. Typical timeline

• Small/simple finishes: 4–8 weeks (permits and inspections included if no major structural work).
• Larger projects with bathrooms/kitchenette or new egress windows: 8–16+ weeks (permit review times and subcontractor scheduling affect duration). (apollorenovation.com)

5. Steps to get started (practical checklist)

• Inspect for moisture/structure — fix any water issues first (dehumidifier, exterior grading, French drain, sealants). (thespruce.com)
• Decide scope: bedrooms? bathroom? kitchenette? home theater? — this determines permits and costs. (Archieremodels.com)
• Get 3 detailed written bids (break out labor, materials, permit fees, allowances). Ask for references and verify insurance/license. (coloradobuildersgroup.com)
• Contractor handles (or help with) permit submission; confirm which code edition applies for your project submission date. (denvergov.org)
• Build according to code: rough MEP inspections → insulation → drywall → final inspections.

6. How to choose a contractor (quick tips)

• Verify licenses, insurance, local references and recent Denver projects.
• Ask for written scope, timeline, payment schedule, change order process and warranty.
• Request the permit number and confirm inspections are scheduled/closed in Denver’s permit portal.
• Compare itemized bids (cheaper isn’t always better — missing items show up as change orders). (coloradobuildersgroup.com)

7. Where to find vetted contractors / additional resources

• Denver government permits & guidelines (apply and check permit status): City & County of Denver Plan Review / Permits pages. (denvergov.org)
• Local remodeling firms and trade specialists (search “basement finishing Denver” on review platforms like BBB, Yelp, Angi; ask each candidate for project photos/references). (apollorenovation.com)
• Egress/window installers and waterproofing specialists — they often handle permitting for those specific items. (AmericanMeegress.com)

8. Typical red flags / watch outs

• Contractor solicits large upfront cash payments or lacks a written contract.
• No permit or avoiding required inspections (this can create resale/title problems and safety hazards).
• No clear warranty or refusal to provide references or proof of insurance.

If you want, I can:

• Look up 3–5 basement finishing contractors in the Denver metro area with high ratings and licensing info, or
• Estimate a more precise budget if you tell me basement size (sq ft) and desired scope (bathroom? bedroom(s)? egress windows? finishes).

Which of those would be most helpful?