How to Convert Your Single Family Dwelling into a Multiplex
Turn your home into a duplex, triplex, or fourplex
Big NEws! THE CITY OF TORONTO HAS APPROVED THE CITY-Wide zoning amendment for allowing multi-unit homes and properties in all residential zones. Reach out to us to get the evaluation process started!
In The City of Toronto, you are allowed to install a second unit (legal duplex) into homes without paying any development charges. This is in response to the housing demand problem that The City of Toronto is constantly dealing with, making it a very un-affordable City to live and work in. Not only are you able to install a second unit into your single family home, but you can now install a third or forth unit legally (and without paying development fees) all across Toronto. This is pending what residential zone that your property is located, but still very welcome news for many people looking to invest in their properties.
Simply put, anywhere in Toronto you are able to install a third or forth unit if your property’s zoning allows for it (read below) and the home has the space for it (or can be added onto to create more space).
But what is the Catch?
Great question! Up until the City Council vote on July 19th, 2022, you were only able to install a third unit 5 years after the second unit is installed without paying development charges. With the recent vote though they have increased development charges for new home construction, BUT they also are waiving the development charges for adding second, third, and forth units into your single property. This is the City of Toronto’s solution to increasing density, and hopefully property owners take advantage of the waived fees.
It is worth mentioning that even though they have waived the development charges doesn’t mean that you will have no work to do. If you want your property to be a legal duplex, triplex, or fourplex you will have to:
Conform to local zoning by-laws and Ontario Building Code requirements for your proposed changes. This means that there will very likely need to be some substantial renovations completed for your new multi-unit residential building, which we would be able to help you with!
Confirm that your property is currently zoned to allow for triplexes and fourplexes. With the new city-wide zoning amendment this should be less of an issue but you should still confirm your zoning before making any investments into the design/permitting of your project.
Toronto has Approved Multi-unit Residential Apartments in ALL residential zones as of April 2023
As mentioned above the City of Toronto has approved the sweeping amendment to residential zoning bylaws across the City to allow for multi-unit housing in all residential zones (RT, RS, and RD zones). Though this means that you will have more confidence with your multi-unit conversion application doesn’t mean getting the permit will be a walk in the park. It is important to not under-estimate the amount of planning and costs needed in order to properly execute a multiplex renovation project in Toronto, you will need to partner with a General Contractor with experience and who can guide you through the process from beginning to end. BVM Contracting will be able to help get you in contact with the right permit designers to evaluate your home’s potential to be converted into a multi-unit property, and what options you have with your budget. Contact us today to get the conversation started!
It is important to note that the amendments are not in effect but that should not stop you from getting the consultation process started, if you have any questions we can help!
What does this news mean for these residential zones?
It means that you are going to see a lot more new home builds, home additions, and home renovations that are adding one or two more units to their properties. Even the ancillary dwelling units like Garden Suites will be able to add additional density if this zoning by-law amendment is approved and included in the Official Plan.
You will expect to see a lot more development of properties that would have otherwise been limited to installing a secondary suite, and it will mean that more rentals will be available across all of Toronto.
How do I get the process started?
If you are looking to start the process of determining if your property is eligible for a conversion to a multi-unit apartment (otherwise known as a multiplex), you will want to get in contact with a permit designer or architect with experience working with The City of Toronto. BVM Contracting has design partners that we can refer you to to start this process and would be happy to connect you. Reach out to us by going to our contact page to submit your inquiry!
Conclusion
Bottom-line is you will need to have the right designer and renovation contractor to help you along through the single family home conversion process. BVM Contracting can help guide you through this process, get you in contact with the right designer, and help price out the renovation work so you can feel comfortable about getting a return on investment.
About BVM COntracting
BVM Contracting is a full-service General Contractor or Home Builder located in Toronto. We provide home renovation and building services for major home renovations and custom home builds (kitchen renovations, bathroom renovations, basement renovations, full interior renovations, home additions, lot severances, and new home construction). Our goal is to help guide our clients through the process of renovating their home, from concept to completion.
Further than providing General Contracting and Project Management for major home renovations, we also offer value-added services such as renovation financing, residential mortgage solutions, renovation rebate consultations and services, building permit and design services, smart home installation services, and real estate investor services.
To learn more about our offering by visiting our services page.