In-Law Suite Renovations in Pickering & Durham Region, ON

An in-law suite or garden suite usually refers to a separate, self-contained living space, often attached to, inside, or located on the same property as a single-family home, intended for use by family members, often aging parents or in-laws, providing them with privacy and independencewhile keeping them close to family and home. 

Yes, Ontario has a low interest program that can allow individuals to access up to $40,000-$80,000 to renovate or build an in-law suite or accessory apartment in their home. This program is a great opportunity for those individuals looking to create multigenerational living environments and age in place. 

A typical in-law suite, garden suite, or secondary suite is usually 500-700 square feet to ensure enough space for comfort and functionality. It should and usually includes a kitchenette, bathroom, bedroom, and living space.

Yes, an in-law suite can be considered an ADU.  Additional Dwelling Units can also be referred to as secondary suites, basement apartments, two-unit dwellings, granny flats, in-law suites, or accessory apartments. They are classified as either Principal Residence (apartments inside a principal residence) or Detached (secondary suites). ADUs are units with at least two rooms, including bathroom facilities and space for cooking.

To make an in-law suite legal in Ontario, make sure that you register it in the City that you live in. You will need to ensure it complies with Durham Region building codes, fire codes, and obtain the necessary permits from your region. You should ensure that the suite is self-contained, has fire escapes, a separate entrance, and meets all safety standards. Permits for in-law suite construction have become easier to obtain with the Governments new initiative to encourage the construction of ADU’s. 

In Ontario, the current rule is that you can have two additional living spaces within your house as long as there's only one additional living space in any other building on the property. You can have three total living spaces in your house aslong as there are no living spaces in any other buildings on the property. 

A secondary suite in Durham Region can cost anywhere from $100 to $500 per square foot depending on if you are trying to renovate space already in your home or build an additional space onto your existing property. We suggest you book a free consultation to reeview your needs, plans, and budget.

Yes, Ontario has several programs available such as the Ontario Renovates Program, which helps seniors and people with disabilities with home modifications. There is also the Home and Vehicle Modification Program as well as other programs offered through local municipalities. 

As home addition contractors we have knowledge of the permit process and working with engineers for drawings, liability insurance, and WSIB. When choosing a contractor to build your addition always ask about their warranties and previous client referrals.