Basement Finishing Electrical in Wisconsin: Complete 2026 Guide
Finishing your basement adds valuable living space. But the electrical work must meet current codes—including AFCI protection that didn't exist when your home was built.
Basement Electrical Costs
- • Basic finish (500 sq ft): $3,000-$5,000
- • With bathroom: $4,500-$7,000
- • Full apartment-style: $6,000-$10,000+
- • Per outlet rough-in: $100-$200
- • Per circuit: $300-$600
Code Requirements for Finished Basements
NEC 2020 Requirements:
- Outlets: Every 12 feet along walls, or within 6 feet of any point
- AFCI protection: All 15A and 20A circuits in living areas
- Tamper-resistant: All outlets if bedroom is included
- Smoke detectors: In each bedroom and common area
- CO detectors: Required near sleeping areas
- Egress lighting: At emergency exit windows
AFCI vs GFCI in Basements
AFCI (Arc Fault)
- • Required in finished living spaces
- • Detects dangerous electrical arcs
- • Prevents fires from wiring faults
- • AFCI breakers cost $30-$50 each
GFCI (Ground Fault)
- • Required in unfinished areas, bathrooms
- • Detects current leaking to ground
- • Prevents electrocution
- • GFCI outlets cost $15-$25 each
Wisconsin Permit Requirements
Basement finishing requires electrical permits in Wisconsin. Under SPS 316, any electrical work beyond simple replacements needs a permit and inspection. This includes:
- • Adding new circuits
- • Installing new outlets or switches
- • Running new wiring
- • Adding lighting fixtures
- • Installing smoke/CO detectors (hardwired)
Why We Can't Quote Remotely
Basement electrical estimates need on-site evaluation of:
- • Main panel capacity (often maxed out)
- • Existing wiring routes and junction boxes
- • Ceiling height and framing access
- • Floor plan and room layout
- • Bathroom and kitchen locations
Related Resources
Finishing Your Basement?
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Get your basement electrical done right the first time with proper AFCI protection, code-compliant outlet placement, and a panel that can handle the extra load. Couillard Electric serves Sheboygan County, Ozaukee County, Washington County, and surrounding SE Wisconsin communities.