What It Takes to Relocate to a Basement Apartment or Bunker in New York City

Have you ever thought about solving your housing situation by renting a basement in a building? Do you think this is practical and safe? Moving into a basement apartment or bunker in New York City can be a great way to live, especially in a city where rent can be very high.

These types of apartments are several times cheaper than those on higher floors. However, if you decide to take this step, you need a good plan. First and foremost, you should check whether the apartment meets all the necessary conditions. Whether it is legal, and whether it has the required safety measures.

In this blog, we'll explore what it takes to relocate to a basement apartment or bunker in New York City.

Understanding Basement Apartments and Bunkers

Basement apartment

A basement apartment is located within a building, usually partially underground, with small windows to let in natural light. These apartments are indeed much cheaper than others, but you need to pay special attention to certain flaws of such living spaces, including:

• Moisture
• Underground water
• Low ceiling height
• Narrow entryways.

Therefore, regardless of the rent price, you must carefully assess all potential issues and consider whether they can be resolved. But, some of these apartments are not allowed to be rented, especially if most are underground. Because of that, check whether basement apartments are legal.

Bunker

A bunker is also an underground space, but it is built to keep people safe. Some people live in bunkers because they want more privacy or protection. People built bunkers to stay safe from war and disasters. Today, you can find bunkers in different places, like shopping malls, airports, and secret homes made for emergencies.

New York City has many basement apartments, and lots of people live in them. They can be a good choice because they are cheaper, but before moving in, it’s important to check if they are safe and legal.

Things to Check Before Moving In

Moving into a basement or bunker requires careful preparation to ensure safety and comfort. Here are some key things to check:

• Ventilation and Air Quality – Make sure there is proper airflow to prevent mold and stale air buildup.
• Waterproofing – Check for leaks, damp spots, or signs of flooding, as basements are prone to moisture.
• Emergency Exits – Ensure there is a secondary escape route for emergencies.
• Electricity and Plumbing – Inspect wiring, outlets, and plumbing for potential hazards or malfunctions.
• Pest Control – Look for signs of rodents, insects, or other pests that could be a problem.
• Heating and Cooling – Basements can be too cold or hot, so check insulation and temperature control options.
• Security – Make sure doors and windows are secure and reinforced if necessary.
• Storage and Space – Plan how to organize your belongings efficiently in a limited area.

How to Find a Safe and Legal Basement Apartment

Finding a basement apartment in New York can be tricky, so be careful when taking such an apartment and check if it is safe and legal. As we said first, check if the apartment is legal. The landlord should have the right permits, and if they don’t, the apartment could be illegal. This could lead to problems for you later, like sudden eviction or safety risks.

Ventilation

There should be windows or a ventilation system to keep fresh air coming in. Without this, the apartment could get stuffy, moldy, or even dangerous due to carbon monoxide buildup.

Lighting

Another important thing to consider. Since basement apartments don’t get much natural light, there should be lamps, and chandeliers to keep the space bright and livable. A dark, poorly lit apartment can feel uncomfortable and unsafe.

Safety

Make sure there are working smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms. Also, check if there’s a safe emergency exit. In case of a fire or other emergency, you need a way to get out quickly.

Because basements are below ground, they can have moisture problems. This is especially important in New York, where heavy rain can cause flooding. If you see any damp spots, peeling paint, or a musty smell, it could mean there are serious moisture problems.

Choosing the right basement apartment takes some extra effort, but making sure it’s safe and legal will help you avoid problems in the future.

Pros and Cons of Living Underground

Living underground, like in a basement or bunker, can be a unique and affordable option, but it comes with both good and bad sides. Let’s explore the pros and cons of basement apartments in simple terms.

Pros:

• Cool in Summer – Basements stay cooler when it’s hot outside, which makes them more comfortable in the summer.
• Quiet – Living below ground is peaceful because it’s away from the loud noise of traffic and busy streets.
• More Privacy – Basement apartments are often more private, as they are not as exposed to the outside world. You can feel safe and hidden from view.
• Lower Rent – Basement apartments usually cost less than regular apartments. This can be a big plus if you’re trying to save money on rent.
• Extra Space – Many basement apartments are large, floor-through spaces, giving you a lot of room to spread out.
• Backyard Access – Some basement apartments even have access to outdoor space, like a backyard, which is rare in a big city like New York.

Cons:

• Damp and Dark – Basements often have little sunlight and can be damp, which may cause mold or make the air feel musty.
• Flood Risk – Basements are more likely to flood, especially during heavy rains, which can cause damage to your belongings.
• Poor Air Quality – Without proper ventilation, basements can have stale air, which can make it hard to breathe or feel comfortable.
• Hard to Escape in Emergencies – In case of a fire or another emergency, it can be difficult to escape from a basement apartment because of small windows or only one exit.
• Illegal Apartments – Many basement apartments in big cities like New York are illegal because they don’t follow the safety rules. This means you might not have protection if something goes wrong.
• Little Privacy – Even with big windows, many basement apartments face the sidewalk, where people can see inside. This can feel like living in a fishbowl.

Living underground can seem like a great option, but it’s important to think about all the risks and disadvantages, especially when it comes to safety. Be sure to check that your apartment is legal and properly set up to avoid any surprises down the road.

Key Takeaways

Relocating to a basement apartment or bunker in New York City can be a unique experience. While there are challenges like limited space, light, and ventilation, proper preparation can make your move successful. Always check safety measures, downsize your belongings, and create a comfortable living space. With the right planning, you can make your new home feel comfortable and secure!