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SECONDARY DWELLING PERMIT DRAWINGS

What is a Secondary Suite/Dwelling?

A secondary suite is a self-contained unit within a house that has its own kitchen, bathroom facilities, and separate entrance. Secondary suites can be a viable housing option provided the units are constructed safely.

Eligible properties for secondary dwellings:

• Secondary suites are only allowed in specific single detached, semi-detached, and street townhomes. 

• Only one secondary suite unit is allowed in each eligible house.

The concept of second dwellings has gained considerable attention. Additional living spaces are becoming increasingly popular for a variety of reasons. Many homeowners are exploring the idea of creating a separate living space on their property. 

Why add a secondary Dwelling?

 Second dwellings provide a versatile solution to various needs, such as accommodating aging parents, providing a rental income stream, or creating a private space for guests. Engineered Plans will explain the importance of second dwellings and offer insights into how to design these spaces to maximize their functionality and aesthetic appeal.


Learn more about the Permit Process here

BASEMENT PERMIT PROCESS

SECONDARY DWELLING PERMITS IN BRAMPTON

Secondary Dwelling Permits in brampton

You may want to finish your basement for yourself or turn it into a legal secondary dwelling. We provide one worry free package that will help you get your secondary dwelling permit.  

For any of these changes, you will need to start with a free home inspection in Brampton. This will give everyone a better idea of what the scope of the project will be and what type of drawings and services will be required.

We look for the following things when we visit. 

  • Existing natural and artificial lighting
  • Means of egress and entrance to the secondary dwelling
  • Locations of bedrooms, kitchen and washrooms.
  • Minimum areas as required by OBC. 
  • New plumbing / HVAC / Mechanical


Find more details regarding Secondary Dwelling requirements here.

Find out more

BASEMENT WALKOUT PERMIT IN BRAMPTON

Basement Walkout Permit in BRampton

Are you looking to add a side entrance to your basement? At EngineeredPlans, we understand the importance of having a separate basement entrance in your home. It can separate your living spaces and increase the value of your property, and provide another form of egress to outdoor access. Our goal is to simplify the often complex process of obtaining these permits in Brampton & the GTA and ensure it is a smooth process for our clients.


We prepare engineered permit drawings for the concrete retaining walls, Footings, and side entrance as required by the Toronto Building permit department.


 Basement Walkout Cost Factors 

1. Excavation Depth: The deeper your house is the more expensive walkout excavation is going to be. Footing details add 2-4 feet in depth.

2. Accessibility: Can Rock Basements get in there with an excavator or do we have to manually dig and transport soil to front of the house?

3. Size of Walkout: Minimum size door and walkup stairs cost less than larger landing with wide concrete stairs that require wider excavation.

4. Materials Used: Poured concrete walls for basement walkout add to the costs. The easiest and economical way to build with reinforced cinder blocks

5. Drainage Complexity: At the bottom of landing drain system needs to be installed. It is connected to house drainage system to divert water.


Pros and Cons of Walkout basement

Pros and Cons of  Walkout basement
Secondary Dwelling Basements

pro: Added Natural Light

Basements often lack natural light, and incorporating a walkout can provide a distinct advantage. There are two approaches to enhance natural light in this context. One involves creating a larger cutout and installing a side window panel adjacent to the exterior door. Alternatively, opting for an exterior door with increased glass in the middle facilitates more natural light. 

Pros and Cons of  Walkout basement
Secondary Dwelling Basements

con: Expensive Project

 While it stands as one of the more affordable structural undertakings for a house, the cost exceeds $20,000, making it unaffordable for many.  It does seem expensive for those who don’t fully understand the amount of work involved in adding a basement entrance. 

 

Pros and Cons of  Walkout basement
Secondary Dwelling Basements

pro:Extra Pathway

 In Toronto, older homes typically feature a single pathway traversing through and around the house. Staircases provide access to various floors, including the basement, and having a main entrance leading to the rear from a deck is considered a luxury not universally enjoyed.

More commonly, homeowners find themselves circumventing the house to access their backyard. The introduction of a basement walkout provides an additional pathway through the house, allowing for an exit at the rear or side of the residence.

 

BASEMENT RENOVATION PERMIT
SECONDARY DWELLING PERMITS

con: Property Tax

 In Toronto, property taxes are already high city officials hold the authority to reassess property taxes after a permit is concluded, potentially raising property tax by 10 to 15%. For an estimate of the potential property tax hike in your area for such a project, please consult our project manager or architect team. 

BASEMENT RENOVATION PERMIT
SECONDARY DWELLING PERMITS

pro:Home Value

Every addition or renovation to a property has the potential to boost its value if done correctly, but a basement walkout takes it to a whole new level. This is primarily because it provides additional functionality and purpose to the house, making it considerably more valuable than the initial construction investment.

Analyzing the real estate market, we can determine that properties with a transformed basement or the potential for a basement unit with a walkout command a premium of at least $45,000 compared to identical properties lacking such features. 

BASEMENT RENOVATION PERMIT
SECONDARY DWELLING PERMITS

con:Basement Damage

Basement Renovations require lots of demolition and new materials. The process takes anywhere between a 6 months to a year. Some of the structural change done to the home at this point are  permanent and forever change the look of the home. 

BASEMENT RENOVATION PERMIT
SECONDARY DWELLING PERMITS

pro:Legal Separate Unit

The most common reason of adding a secondary  entrance in Toronto housing is the opportunity to divide the space into secondary dwellings. Both investors and homeowners aspire to rent out a portion of their residence to generate additional income and offset expenses. Shared interior spaces within the building often prove inconvenient and diminish the available square footage. Opting for a separate entrance allows for easy access for everyone


Recent Work

Richmond HIll Basement Renovation

We provided engineering and design services for a basement walkout.

Learn More

Richmond Hill – Secondary Dwelling Residence

We provided engineering and design services for a basement walkout.

Learn More

VAughan Secondary Dwelling

We provided engineering and design services for a basement walkout.

Learn More

Crossgate – Secondary Dwelling Residence

Scope of Work: Permit Drawings for Secondary Dwelling Basement Apartment 

Client: Ahmed 

Location: Ottawa, ON 

Learn More

Willowmere Way – Secondary Dwelling Residence

Scope of Work: Permit Drawings for Secondary Dwelling Basement Apartment 

Client: Harpreet

Location: Willowmere Way, Gloucester

Learn More
Basement renovation permit drawings to legalize basement

Basement Rental Unit ConversioN - Mississauga, ON

We provided engineering and design services to renovate an existing unfinished basement unit.

Learn More
Basement renovation permit drawings to legalize basement

existing finished basement legalization

We provided engineering and design services to legalize an existing basement.


BUILDING DESIGN

BUILDING PERMITS

BUILDING PERMITS

  • Residential Permit
  • Custom Home
  • Additions
  • Interior Design
  • Garage

BUILDING PERMITS

BUILDING PERMITS

BUILDING PERMITS

  • Custom home permits
  • Residential additions
  • Attached/detached garages and carports
  • Interior alterations
  • Load bearing wall(s) removal
  • Decks, porches, verandas

OTHER SERVICES

BUILDING PERMITS

OTHER SERVICES

  • As Built Drawings
  • Marketing Drawings
  • Drafting Services (2D/3D)
  • Smart home Planning
  • 3D Renderings
  • Site Plan Drawing

Service Areas

How does the process work?

OTHER SERVICES

  • Toronto
  • Mississauga 
  • Vaughan
  • Brampton
  • Markham
  • Newmarket
  • Oakville
  • Oshawa
  • Richmond Hill
  • Ajax
  • North York

How does the process work?

How does the process work?

How does the process work?

1. Contact Us

2. Gather required information

3. Receive Quote 

4. Receive Permit Drawings

Find out more

Frequently Asked Questions

Please reach us at  if you cannot find an answer to your question.

In Ontario, obtaining a permit is necessary for renovating a basement. Specifically, basement renovations that involve structural modifications, changes to plumbing or electrical systems, or the creation of a livable space mandate the need of building permits. 

Such renovations without the essential permits can result in fines and complications. Therefore, it is recommended to secure the appropriate permits before commencing any basement renovation project in Ontario. 


Permit drawings for basement renovations have complete architectural and structural plans the current basement layout and the proposed changes to the basement. 


These drawings are vital when seeking a building permit. These drawings show clear information needed by the city and include a site plan, floor plans, elevations, and requisite details. Local authorities utilize these permit drawings to evaluate proposed changes, ensuring adherence to building codes, safety regulations, and zoning ordinances. The precision and comprehensiveness of these drawings play a pivotal role in securing legal approval to proceed with your basement renovation project. 


Building permits are typically needed for construction, demolition, renovation, and additions to residential, commercial, and industrial properties. Projects involving changes to a building’s structure, plumbing, or mechanical systems often require permits 


The timeline for obtaining a building permit depends on the complexity of your project and the workload of the city’s building department. Simple projects may be approved in a few weeks, while more complex projects can take several months


 Modifying permit drawings during construction can be possible, but it often depends on the nature and extent of the changes. 

We recommend reaching out us to resolve changes in your current construction project. We will talk with the city and inspector to accurately show changes that were made one site after getting the permit approved. It’s essential to communicate any alterations promptly to us. We can assess the modifications and determine if they comply with regulations, and guide you on the necessary steps for approval. 


We have worked with 100's of clients whose permit was previously rejected or had too many ongoing changes requested by the city. We will your review your application for Ontario Building Code, National Building Code and City By-laws to make sure it is not rejected again.


Incorporating crucial information like floor plans, elevations, sections, site plans, and construction specifications is imperative when creating permit drawings for a basement renovation. These drawings offer a comprehensive visual depiction of both the current layout and the intended changes, ensuring alignment with local building codes and regulations. The inclusion of all necessary details aids local authorities in accurately evaluating the project, facilitating the approval process for the permit required for your basement renovation. 


The duration of a basement renovation permit in Toronto ranges from 6 months to 2 years, contingent on the permit category and the complexity of the project. It's important to be mindful of the permit's expiration date and initiate the process for renewal or extension if required, ensuring compliance with the stipulated timeframe. 


The FASTRACK building Building permit service aims to issue permits for specific home renovation projects within a 5-business-day timeframe. However, it's important to note that FASTRACK applications are designed for minor interior renovations and projects without any external work. For more extensive projects like additions, garages, or new builds, the processing time is typically longer, depending on the project's individual scope. 


It's often overlooked that the city of Toronto involves different departments in reviewing various aspects of an application. Different departments handle HVAC, life safety, and structural drawings. If your project involves external work, such as building an addition or a shed, the city of Toronto will also review it to ensure compliance with zoning by-laws. Obtaining a Building permit entails more than just submitting a few documents, which is why the process generally extends beyond the 5-day period. 


 

We've encountered numerous clients facing similar issues. They acquire a property only to discover that the second-floor addition, deck, or secondary unit was not constructed in compliance with building codes and was erected unlawfully. The harsh reality is that, if you've purchased such a property, it now falls upon you to rectify the mistakes of the previous owners, despite them being the ones who implemented the changes. This is why conducting a thorough inspection before purchasing the home is crucial, ensuring that everything is in proper order.



According to legal obligations, sellers are required to disclose any additions or unpermitted work they are aware of. However, openly addressing this situation allows for collaboration with buyers, reassuring them that necessary adjustments can be undertaken. Selling a house with minor unpermitted work is indeed a viable possibility.  


The rules and regulations regarding building without a Building permit vary by municipality in Ontario, and it's important to check with your local municipal building department for specific guidelines. 

Constructing a backyard shed, garden shed, or storage shed does not necessitate a building permit if it is smaller than 160 square feet (or 15 square meters). However, any shed exceeding 160 square feet does require a building permit. It's important to note that building permits are obligatory for accessory structures with plumbing, irrespective of their size. For additional details, you can refer to the Toronto website. 


In Ontario, it is illegal to build or renovate a building without the required permits. The legislative guidelines for constructing or renovating structures in the province are provided by the Building Code Act of Ontario. Without a valid permission, it is illegal to construct, dismantle, or permit the construction or demolition of a building. If these actions are carried out without the required authorization, there may be severe repercussions, such as fines, penalties, and possible legal action. 

If found guilty of a breach of the 1992 Building Code Act, such as building without a permit, the fines might reach $100,000 for many infractions and $50,000 for first offenses. 


Pre-Application Consultation: 

  • Before starting the application process, it's advisable to have a pre-application consultation with EngineeredPlans. This allows you to discuss your project, understand local regulations, and receive guidance on the Secondary Dwelling Building permit application process. 

Prepare Your Plans: 

  • Create detailed plans and drawings of your existing and proposed basement construction project. These should include architectural, structural, mechanical, and electrical details that meet Toronto Permit Office Requirements. The level of detail required may vary based on the complexity of the project. 

Complete Application Forms: 

  • Fill out the necessary building Building permit application forms from City of Toronto provided by your local municipality. Include all required documentation, such as site plans, floor plans, elevations, and any other relevant information. Be sure to provide accurate and complete details to avoid delays. 

Submit Application: 

  • Submit the completed secondary dwelling application forms and supporting documents to the Toronto Building permit department. There is typically a submission fee, which varies depending on the municipality and the scope of the project. 

Application Review: 

  • The building permit department will review your secondary dwelling application to ensure it complies with local zoning by-laws, building codes, Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) and other regulations. This process may involve multiple departments, such as planning, engineering, and fire services. 

Issuance of Permit: 

  • Once your application is approved, the building department will issue the building permit. This document grants you legal permission to begin construction. It will outline specific conditions and requirements that must be followed during the construction process. 

Commence Construction: 

  • With the Secondary Dwelling Building permit in hand, you can start the construction process. It's essential to adhere to the approved plans and any conditions specified in the permit. 

Inspections: 

  • Throughout the construction process, inspections may be required at various stages. Contact the building department to schedule inspections to ensure that the work complies with the approved plans and building codes. 

Final Inspection and Occupancy: 

  • Once construction is complete, a final inspection is typically required. If the work meets all the necessary standards, a Certificate of Occupancy or a similar document may be issued, allowing you to occupy or use the structure. 


See our detailed guide here.



1. If you would like to rent the basement as a second unit.

2. Add kitchen with Stove



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Brampton Legal Basement Requirments

A professional firm specializing in Secondary Dwelling Permit APplication in Ontario

Here are some essential prerequisites for establishing a legal basement apartment: EngineeredPlans collaborates with landlords to secure the necessary permits for legal compliance, whether it involves retrofitting an existing unit or creating an entirely new secondary unit. 


EngineeredPlans emphasizes the importance of homeowners engaging with a fully insured business registered with the provincial Ministry of Community Affairs and Housing to ensure both quality and accuracy. Neglecting compliance may lead to fines of up to $25,000 if a complaint is filed by a neighbor or tenant about a potentially illegal basement. Such penalties far exceed the cost of ensuring compliance from the outset. If you have any inquiries or concerns regarding a basement apartment in Brampton, feel free to call us at 437-808-7039.


To obtain planning permission from the City of Brampton for the construction or legalization of a separate entrance to the basement apartment, technical drawings and plans are required. The cost for basement permit drawings service is $1150 + HST.


In the City of Brampton, obtaining a building permit is mandatory for establishing a basement apartment or secondary dwelling within an existing home. The requirements are based on the Ontario Building Code, specifically Part 9 of 2012 (as updated January 1, 2018), and Part 11 for homes over five years old. 


City of Brampton has intensified efforts against illegal sub-units through a dedicated task force. Homeowners are urged to ensure their secondary units are both legal and compliant.


Secondary dwellings play a vital role in providing affordable housing in Brampton, catering to individuals who might otherwise face housing challenges in the market. However, we advises caution against contractors offering illegal units, despite their potential cost advantages. The risks to one's home, family, and legal liability in case of tenant injury or worse are significant.


EngineeredPlans offers services to visit your basement apartment, take measurements, and create the necessary permit drawings and plans for obtaining the City of Brampton's building permit. The technical drawings, prepared by licensed engineers (P.Eng.), incur a cost of $1150 + HST. It is important to note that the owner bears sole responsibility for the construction and ongoing maintenance of the basement, assuming liability in case of breakdowns or accidents. Adhering to instructions is crucial in ensuring a safe and legal apartment, whether for family members or future tenants seeking additional income.


Basement Secondary Dwelling apartments are permissible in semi-detached dwellings and townhouses in Brampton, subject to zoning requirements and city-imposed restrictions. Legal registration with the City of Brampton is mandatory for a basement apartment to be considered lawful and secure for all residents.


For many Brampton residents, a basement represents a versatile space. It can be finished for personal use or converted into a legal rental income suite. Modifications like removing load-bearing walls or transforming a century-old basement into a functional living space may also be considered.

To circumvent the need for excavating 4 feet beneath the existing basement foundation for frost protection, alternative methods such as vertical insulation installation, extending insulation horizontally, and ensuring proper drainage may be employed. Adequate insulation is crucial for retaining heat and preventing heat loss around the base.


Moreover, the drywall separation between the basement and the rest of the house must possess a fire rating of at least 30 minutes. A separate exit is a requirement for safety. This exit ensures that a second unit, a self-contained housing entity within a house, is registered and thereby lawful.


Applications for second unit registration and building permits are accepted in person at the Flower City Community Campus. A total of 18 months is provided to complete the registration process from the date of application submission, ensuring compliance with all requirements.


When it comes to constructing basement bathrooms, the presence of either a fan or window is obligatory. 


The fee for registering a basement apartment in Brampton is as follows:

However, with the prospect of generating extra income comes added responsibility. Should you choose to develop a basement for rental purposes, meticulous adherence to legal guidelines and safety measures is imperative. The newly established basement apartments not only offer additional affordable rental housing in established neighborhoods but also contribute to making homeownership in Brampton more accessible.


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