How long does basement finishing take?

Most basement finishes take 4–10 weeks of active work. Simple projects (framing, drywall, flooring, paint — no bathroom) typically finish in 3–4 weeks. Adding a bathroom adds 2–3 weeks for plumbing rough-in + finish. Adding a wet bar or kitchenette adds another 1–2 weeks. Waterproofing or sump-pump install (required if moisture history) adds 1 week BEFORE drywall can go up. Egress window cutting through a poured-concrete or block foundation adds 2–3 days. Permits typically take 1–4 weeks to issue, so plan total elapsed timeline at 6–14 weeks from sign to acceptance.