car crash wrote:
I want to finish my basement....I'm putting up 2 walls and some
electrical. I realize that by law I'm suppose to get a permit but
lots of people are telling me not to even bother. It will increase my
taxes substantially and that's about it.
Someone was telling me that in Ottawa about 50% don't get permits to
finish their basements.

Hmmm,
If you finish it w/o permit and if/when fire breaks out, your insurance
co. won't cover the resulting damage. I am in
Calgary and I got home owners DIY permit which includes electrical,
structural, plumbing inspection by city ispectors.
I guess it is upto you. I'd rather b on the safe side.