Business Details
18 Years
experience
Your Trusted Partner for Basement Renovations in Berlin, CT
Better Built Basements was founded in 2008 by James & Deborah Tranmer and Randall Michalek, driven by a shared vision to simplify home renovations. With decades of combined experience in home improvement, we recognized the stress caused by fragmented contractor coordination and miscommunication. Our mission is to transform basements into functional, beautiful spaces while prioritizing 100% customer satisfaction. We serve all of Connecticut and Massachusetts from our Berlin, CT headquarters, offering a one-stop-shop for basement finishing needs.Our team of honest, talented professionals uses a proprietary online portal to ensure transparency and consistent communication throughout every project. From initial design to final execution, we guarantee precise quotes, accurate timelines, and a stress-free experience. Our commitment to quality craftsmanship and customer-centric service has earned us recognition as Connecticut's #1 resource for custom basement renovations.
Services
Basement Renovations
Basement Bathrooms
Basement Kitchens
Basement Home Offices
Basement Stairs
Custom Built-Ins
Home Theaters
Wine Cellars
Play Areas
Storage Solutions
Details
- Year established: 2008
Highlights and features
- We offer 15+ years of specialized basement renovation experience
- Our proprietary online portal ensures full project transparency
- All work completed by direct employees, never subcontractors
- Licensed and insured with CT HIC0674237-MA#178386 credentials
- Guaranteed accurate timelines and no hidden fees
What people say
Flawless workmanship
Daily project updates
Professional team
Exceeded expectations
Timely completion
Services
Basement Renovations
Transform your basement into functional living space with our comprehensive renovation services. We specialize in creating custom layouts that maximize storage, improve lighting, and meet all Connecticut building codes. Our team handles moisture control, electrical upgrades, and finishing touches to convert your basement into a safe, beautiful extension of your home. Every project includes detailed planning and transparent communication through our proprietary online portal.
Basement Bathrooms
Add value to your home with professionally installed basement bathrooms. Our experts ensure proper ventilation, waterproofing, and code compliance while creating stylish, functional spaces. We handle all plumbing requirements and coordinate with licensed professionals to guarantee safe, durable installations that enhance your basement's usability and resale value.
Basement Kitchens
Create a self-sufficient entertainment zone with our basement kitchen installations. We design layouts that optimize limited space while meeting electrical and plumbing requirements. Our team ensures proper ventilation, adequate lighting, and strategic appliance placement to create functional kitchens that withstand basement humidity and temperature variations.
Basement Home Offices
Design quiet, productive work environments in your basement with our specialized office conversions. We address moisture control, soundproofing, and lighting needs while creating layouts that accommodate workstations, storage, and client meetings. Our solutions include strategic Wi-Fi optimization and electrical planning for modern office equipment.
Custom Built-Ins
Maximize basement efficiency with custom built-in storage systems. Our designers transform awkward spaces under stairs and around support beams into functional storage units. We create tailored solutions for books, equipment, and seasonal items while maintaining structural integrity and aesthetic appeal throughout the renovation process.
People
Jim Tranmer
Owner, Production
With 15+ years in home renovations, Jim oversees all production operations. His hands-on approach ensures quality control across every project, from initial design to final walkthroughs. Jim's expertise in basement moisture management and code compliance guarantees durable, safe installations.
Randy Michalek
Owner, Production
Co-founder Randy manages technical execution and employee training. His background in structural engineering ensures proper load calculations for basement modifications. Randy's focus on innovation has led to the development of the company's proprietary project management system.
Deborah Tranmer
Owner, Finance
Deborah oversees financial operations and client relations. Her decade of experience in construction accounting ensures transparent pricing and accurate budget forecasting. She manages the company's financing partnerships to provide accessible options for homeowners.
Olivia Gatzen
CEO
As CEO, Olivia directs strategic growth while maintaining operational excellence. Her leadership has expanded service areas to include Massachusetts while preserving the company's personalized service approach. Olivia focuses on technology integration to enhance customer experience.
Jake Barnett
Production Manager
Jake coordinates daily operations and crew scheduling. With 8 years of field experience, he ensures timely project completion while maintaining quality standards. Jake's expertise in basement electrical systems guarantees safe, code-compliant installations.
Questions
What basement renovation options do you offer?
We specialize in bathrooms, kitchens, home offices, gyms, theaters, and custom storage solutions. Our team creates tailored designs for every space and budget.
Do you handle building permits and codes?
Yes, we manage all code compliance and permit requirements for Connecticut and Massachusetts projects.
How long does a typical basement renovation take?
Most projects complete within 60-90 days, depending on scope and size.
Are financing options available?
Yes, we offer financing solutions from $1,000 to $100,000 through multiple lenders.
Do you use subcontractors?
We employ all workers directly, except for specialized plumbing when required.
What areas do you service?
We serve all Connecticut towns and select Massachusetts locations from our Berlin headquarters.
Reviews (1)
Rob Keller
Jun 12, 2014
Report
These guys are professional, clean, efficient and offer top quality results with a competitive price! Check out the job they did for us below photos - Manchester late April recreation basement, just awesome!
