Bonus Room Finishing Questionnaire

1. Room Use & Layout

2. Ceiling Height & Access

3. HVAC & Return Air

**Return Air Code Note:** In North Carolina, a return grille must serve no more than 1,600 sq ft and must be located in the area it serves.

If the bonus room is enclosed and airflow is restricted, a dedicated return is recommended.

4. Garage Adjacency (If Applicable)

If the bonus room or proposed bedroom is adjacent to or above a garage, the following restrictions apply:

No direct door from the garage into a sleeping room. Garage/living area separation requires a 1-hour fire-rated wall and ceiling. Connecting door must be self-closing, solid-core, and without glass. CO detectors are recommended if the room is not at least one story above the garage.

Recommended Solution: Create a small hallway with a rated door separating the bedroom or bonus room from the garage wall. This preserves code compliance while maintaining access.

5. Lighting & Electrical

6. Plumbing (if applicable)

7. Windows & Egress

8. Finishes

9. Inspections & Permits

10. Additional Notes

11. Cost Estimation & Square Footage Calculator

To help estimate your project budget, here is a breakdown of typical finishing costs per square foot:

Basic Finish (drywall, flooring, minimal electrical): ........ $45 - $60 / sq ft Mid-Range (includes HVAC, lighting, insulation): .............. $60 - $85 / sq ft High-End (custom features, bath/plumbing, built-ins): ........ $85 - $130+ / sq ft

Enter your bonus room square footage below and use the range to estimate:

Estimated Budget Range:

Note: These figures are industry averages. Actual costs may vary based on finishes, labor, code requirements, and accessibility.