Do Duplexes Have Basements?

If you’re wondering whether or not duplexes have basements, you’ve come to the right place. Yes, some duplexes do have basements.

The most important thing you need to know is that not all duplexes have basements. So, you might have to ask or look around to find a duplex that has one.

What Is A Duplex?

First of all, let’s make sure we understand what a duplex is precisely. A duplex is a single residential home that’s split into two living areas. As you might be able to tell, a duplex allows two different renters to live in the same building while occupying completely separated spaces.

Sometimes, this might include a basement as a living space on its own, complete with bed and bath areas just like any other apartment.

What Are The Benefits Of A Duplex Basement?

But why would someone want to live in a duplex basement? Well, the truth is that there are many benefits to basement living when compared with living on the ground or first floor.

The first benefit is the added privacy. When you’re living in a duplex basement, you don’t have the same kind of large windows that you’d find on an above-ground unit. That way, you don’t have to worry about passers-by peeking into your apartment and seeing what you might be doing.

That added privacy also pairs well with the second benefit, and that’s all the extra space that you have in a duplex basement. Typically, a basement unit will be an open-concept space that covers the total size of the building.

Plus, basement units usually command a lower rental price. Put those two together, and what do you get? You end up paying less per square foot of space. More space at a lower cost? That’s a dream come true!

Also, there’s less concern about noise and noise complaints when you’re living in a duplex basement. Think about it: your closest neighbor is only the people occupying the unit above you.

So, noises from the TV or any music playing won’t bother anyone on the sides of your unit. That works both ways, as well.

You don’t have to worry about tolerating any noise coming from your neighbors, since you live in the basement.

On top of that, roadside noises won’t be a problem either. So, even if you’re at home during rush hour, you’ll be sitting comfortably doing whatever you do.

What To Consider Before Renting or Buying A Duplex Basement

Even though there are plenty of benefits to living in a duplex basement, it’s not always problem-free.

Don’t just sign up and move in without doing a close inspection first! Here are a few key things to consider before moving into a duplex basement:

• Noise
  As mentioned earlier, you don’t have to worry about the usual kinds of noise when you’re living in a basement duplex. Still, you do have to keep an eye out for artificial sources of noise coming from any common areas. That means being aware of any machinery or equipment that you might find at the basement level. An excellent example of this is the laundry machine. Even if the machine isn’t directly inside your unit, the noise coming from it could be a bother especially late at night.
• Lighting
  Inside a duplex basement, natural lighting stays at a minimum. At most, there might be small windows that allow sunlight to enter the unit for a few hours a day. Of course, there will be electrical lighting to make up for this, but ask yourself if that’s enough for you. If it’s not, then check to see if there are enough plugs for you to add additional lighting to make your unit more comfortable.
• Flooding
  As the lowest level of the building, basements are sometimes prone to flooding. Check around to see if flooding has happened already. Inspect the floors or carpeting closely to see if there is water damage, and try to see if the apartment comes with a proper drainage system to prevent future floods.
• Pests
  Last but not least, look out for any cockroaches or other pests. The lack of lighting in a basement duplex might attract some pests. Still, if the unit is well-maintained, this shouldn’t be a problem at all.