If you’re considering turning your basement into a legal living space in Ontario, there are several steps and costs involved. Legalizing a basement apartment requires you to follow strict regulations and obtain the necessary permits.
Step 1: Obtain a Building Permit
To begin, you’ll need architectural drawings and plans to apply for a building permit in Ontario. For example, The building permit fees in Mississauga are $1,595 plus HST. The time it takes to process and issue permits varies, with an average of 13 weeks for new residential buildings, 7 weeks for residential alterations, and 10 weeks for secondary units. Keep in mind these are estimates, and actual times may vary.
Making a Legal Basement Apartment in Ontario
With the rising cost of living in Canada, having a legal basement apartment can be a great way to ease financial pressure. However, to make your basement legal, you must comply with the Ontario Building Code and local zoning regulations.
Key Requirements for a Legal Basement:
Minimum Area: The basement must be at least 145 square feet.
Ceiling Height: A minimum ceiling height of 1.95 meters is required.
Windows: Windows should cover at least 5% of the living area and 2.5% of the bedroom area.
Utilities: The unit must have hot and cold water, a kitchen sink, and access to a laundry room.
Electrical Safety: Heating, cooling, and electrical systems must be approved by the Electrical Safety Authority.
Fire Safety: There must be a 30-minute fire separation between the basement and the main unit, as well as a second escape route.
What Makes a Basement Apartment Legal in Ontario?
To be considered legal, a basement apartment in Ontario must meet several criteria:
Separate, Self-Contained Unit: The basement must include its own kitchen and bathroom.
Egress: There must be at least two means of egress in case of fire or emergency.
Safety Standards: The unit must meet all safety standards, including adequate ventilation and sufficient lighting.
Permits and Licenses: The landlord must obtain all necessary permits and licenses from the municipality.
Meeting Ontario Building Codes Before Renting Out Your Basement
Before renting out your basement, it’s crucial to ensure the space complies with the Ontario Building Code. If your property is older, consider hiring a building inspector or general contractor to assess the space.
Key points to address include:
Fire Safety: Install working smoke detectors and ensure no flammable materials are stored in the basement. The space must meet Fire Code standards to be considered safe.
Ventilation and Lighting: Adequate ventilation and proper lighting, including windows of the required size, are essential.
Moisture Control: Ensure the basement is free of moisture or water damage.
Cost of Legalizing a Basement in Mississauga
The cost of legalizing a basement can vary based on factors such as size, layout, permits, and labor. Generally, the cost of making a basement legal could amount to several thousand dollars. For example, a turnkey finished basement without a bathroom in Mississauga costs approximately CAD 35,500. However, the costs can escalate if significant renovations are required, such as new plumbing or wiring.
How to Rent Out a Legal Basement
If you plan to rent out your legal basement, consider the following steps:
Compliance: Ensure your basement meets all necessary codes and by-laws.
Condition: The apartment should be in excellent condition, with all required appliances and safety alarms installed.
Photography: Invest in professional photos to showcase your space.
Listing: Provide a detailed description of the amenities and improvements in your listing.
Pricing: Research local rental prices to set a competitive rate.
Tenant Screening: Conduct thorough interviews, including credit checks and reference checks, to find reliable tenants.
Pros and Cons of a Legal Basement
Pros:
Additional income and living space.
Increased resale value of your home.
Insurance coverage for legal spaces.
Cons:
High cost of converting an illegal basement into a legal one.
Compliance with building codes can be challenging, especially for older homes.
Rental income tax must be paid on earnings from the basement.
Ready to Renovate Your Basement?
If you’re considering basement renovations in GTA, TF Renovations is here to help. We’re a full-service basement renovation company with the expertise to turn your basement into a functional, legal living space. We’ll work with you to design the perfect space and ensure the project is completed on time and within budget.
Contact us today for a free consultation!
Call us at: (416) 800-9088
Email us: contact@tfrenovations.ca
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