What is a Secondary Suite?
A secondary suite is a self-contained unit in a residential building that is designed specifically for use as a separate household. It may be known as a granny flat, in-law suite, or accessary apartment.
The authorisation for the creation of secondary suites in Ontario was established in 2011 through an amendment to the Planning Act, when the Government of Ontario passed legislation called the Strong Communities through Affordable Housing Act.
Depending on municipal zoning requirements, it may be possible to create more than one secondary suite in a house. Each unit must include at least one room that acts as a combined living/sleeping/dining room, a kitchen and a bathroom, to be used exclusively by the occupant(s). Secondary suites may be accessed by a separate exterior entrance or a common entrance.
What Are The Pros of Creating a Secondary Suite?
- It may offer an opportunity for a family member to live independently, but remain near their family
- It can be an added source of income for the home owner
- It provides the community with affordable rental housing
- If created legally, a secondary suite will increase the value of your property
- It may result in tax benefits
What Are The Cons of Creating a Secondary Suite?
- You may be sharing a portion of your dwelling with unfamiliar people
- A significant renovation may be required to create the secondary suite
- The cost of your home insurance may increase due to the increased value of your home
- The cost of your municipal taxes may increase
Where Can a Secondary Suite be Created?
Municipal zoning requirements regulate where a secondary suite may be created. A secondary suite may be able to be created in a detached, semi-detached, or row house in a residential area. It may be located on any level of a residential building. Depending on the municipality, secondary suites may also be created in other structures such as garages but these may have special requirements. Stay tuned for more information on our website pertaining to this topic…
What is Involved in the Creation of a Secondary Suite?
The design for the secondary suite must adhere to municipal zoning requirements and standards for your property, as well as the Ontario Building Code (OBC). It should be noted that Building Code requirements may differ depending upon the age of your building and the number of secondary suites in the building. Health, safety, housing, and maintenance standards set forth by the OBC, the Fire Code, and municipal property standard by-laws must be met to acquire a building permit. Construction can begin once a building permit is acquired. During construction, you must expect building inspections to be made at specific stages.
How Do I Make an Existing Secondary Suite Legal?
To make an existing secondary suite legal, you must apply for a “Change of Use” building permit. Your application will follow the same procedure as is required when creating a new secondary suite. Municipal zoning, all pertinent health, safety, housing and maintenance standards set forth by the OBC, the Fire Code, and municipal property standard by-laws will have to be met to acquire the building permit. During construction, building inspections will be made at specific stages.
We Can Help
The creation of a secondary suite is an exciting but potentially stressful project. Let Homes 2B Design help you to navigate the process to ensure a successful result.
- We will provide consultation on any physical changes that may have to be made to your home to enable the creation of the secondary suite.
- We will determine the municipal zoning requirements and standards that apply to your property.
- We will create design drawings that meet with your approval.
- We will prepare construction drawings that will comply with the OBC and all municipal requirements, to be included in your permit application.
- We can apply for the building permit on your behalf.
- We can represent you at the Committee of Adjustment, if necessary.