Second suites, also referred to as basement apartments or auxiliary dwelling units, are independent residential rental units within homes. They offer homeowners the opportunity to generate additional income to cover housing expenses. Recognized by CMHC as vital rental housing, regulations for second suites are mandated by the Planning Act, 2011, effective January 1, 2012. However, not all Ontario municipalities have implemented regulations yet. Municipalities determine standards and zoning provisions for second units, including minimum unit size, licensing, and parking requirements. FAQs about new and existing second suites are provided below.
- Second suites are self-contained residential rental units located within dwellings or accessory structures, like a carriage house.
- Commonly known as basement apartments, they may also be called granny flats, second units, in-law suites, or accessory apartments.
- No, many municipalities in Ontario, including Toronto, have had established second suite by-laws for years.
- Second suites aren’t universally allowed in all dwellings. Municipal regulations vary, so homeowners should inquire with the municipal planning department.
- Some municipalities may require registration or licensing of the second suite, with associated fees.
- The amended by-law permits second suites in all single-detached, semi-detached and townhomes throughout the new City of Toronto – with certainconditions.
- Establishing a second unit may necessitate a building permit, especially if alterations to the house are required. Therefore, homeowners contemplating a second unit should contact their municipality beforehand.
- Homeowners should inform their insurance provider about adding or having an existing second suite on their property to ensure proper coverage, as advised by the Insurance Bureau of Canada. For further information, homeowners can contact their insurance provider.
Typically, there will be minimal effects on property taxes. However, an exception arises if the second suite is established through building an extension, substantially increasing the property’s value.
- Homeowners who rent out their second suite are considered landlords and must adhere to regulations outlined in the Ontario Residential Tenancy Act. All tenancy agreements must comply with rules and regulations regarding discrimination under the Human Rights Code. For additional information on the rights and responsibilities of landlords and tenants, homeowners can visit the Landlord and Tenant Board of Ontario’s website at www.ltb.gov.on.ca.
- Second suites must be self-contained with kitchen and bathroom facilities. All new second suites must adhere to the Ontario Building Code, while existing and new ones must comply with the Ontario Fire Code. Additionally, all new and existing second suites must conform to municipal zoning and property standard by-laws.
- Second suite’s floor area should be smaller than the remaining unit.
- Parking spaces must be provided at a minimum rate of 1.0 for each secondary suite exceeding one.
- Prior to planning exterior alterations, homeowners should reach out to the City of Toronto’s Urban Planning and Development Services Department.
The Fire Department staff will need to inspect the unit, and there will be a fee associated with the inspection. Depending on the findings, you might need to upgrade the suite to comply with code requirements and other standards. For further details, please reach out to the City’s Urban Planning and Development Services Department.
*Disclaimer: The information presented serves as a general overview and may not cover all aspects of the topic. Please note that certain details may have changed or may no longer be current. For a comprehensive and up-to-date understanding, please consult authoritative sources such as the Government of Ontario’s website or seek advice from a qualified professional. The user is responsible for conducting due diligence to verify the accuracy and relevance of the information before relying on it for decision-making.