SECONDARY SUITE PERMITS — ONTARIO
Turn the basement into a legal apartment— not just a finished one.
Most basements aren’t rejected for looking bad — they’re rejected for missing egress, separation, or a stamped set of drawings. We handle the drawings, the code review, and the back-and-forth with the city, so your unit gets approved the first time.
- Drawings built to Ontario Building Code, not guesswork
- We speak directly with the city on your behalf
- Preliminary design back in 5–10 business days
Do you actually need a permit for a basement apartment?
In almost every Ontario municipality, yes. A second unit needs a building permit covering fire separation, egress, smoke/CO alarms, plumbing, ventilation, and a zoning check — even if the space is already finished. Skipping this step is the most common reason basement units can’t be legally rented or insured.
What's Included in a Basement Apartment Permit?
01
Zoning & Regulatory Compliance
02
Building Code & Fire Safety Review
03
Permit Drawings & Application Documents
04
Engineering Coordination (If Needed)
05
Permit Submission & City Review Assistance
▸ Key Requirements
What the city is actually checking for
- Minimum ceiling height as set out in the Ontario Building Code
- Egress windows sized for safe exit from every bedroom
- Fire separation rated between the unit and the rest of the house
- Interconnected smoke and carbon monoxide alarms
- Proper ventilation and mechanical/HVAC servicing
- A separate entrance, independent of the main unit
- Minimum window glazing area for bedrooms and living space
Ready to make the basement legal?
We prepare the drawings, check the secondary-suite requirements, and keep the file organized so your application reads clearly to a reviewer — not like a stack of guesses.
From first call to city approval, in six stages
01
Approval & Support
On-site measurement and information gathering at the property.
02
Site Visit
On-site measurement and information gathering at the property.
03
Design
Preliminary design back within 5–10 business days, depending on scope.
04
Permit Package
Once the design is confirmed, we prepare the full package for submission.
05
City Submission
We submit the application and manage the city’s review directly.
06
Approval & Support
We respond to city comments and support the file through to approval.
▸ Key Requirements
What typically goes in the package
- Site plan
- Existing & proposed floor plans
- Elevations & sections
- Detail drawings — fire separation, stairs, guards
- Structural & mechanical drawings, if required
Not every project needs every drawing on this list. We confirm the exact set based on your property, municipality, and scope before work begins.
Common Reasons for Permit Review Delays
Drawings Not Prepared by a Qualified Designer
Incomplete Fire Separation Details
Insufficient Ceiling Height Clearance
Parking Requirements Not Met
Inadequate Window Size for Natural Light & Glazing Standards
Why Clients Trust Permit Build
"Excellent quality polycarbonate sheets at competitive prices. The materials were durable, exactly as described, and delivered on time. Great customer service."
Harpreet Singh
Verified Google Review
"Outstanding service from Permit Build. They took care of the permit application from start to finish, communicated every step clearly, and helped us avoid unnecessary delays. Highly professional and a pleasure to work with."
Maria Malik
Verified Google Review
"Excellent experience with Permit Build from start to finish. They were knowledgeable, detail oriented, and helped move our project forward smoothly. Reliable service and great communication throughout."
Maha Dogar
Verified Google Review
"Permit Build provided outstanding engineering services from start to finish. They also supplied high-quality building materials at competitive prices, making the entire project smooth and hassle-free. Highly recommend their knowledgeable and professional team!"
Nasir Sohail
Verified Google Review
"I was impressed with the quality of Permit Build’s drawing services. They took the time to understand my project, produced clear and professional permit drawings, and were always quick to answer my questions. I would definitely use their services again."
Azhar Asim
Verified Google Review
"Permit Build provided excellent drawing services from start to finish. The permit drawings were accurate, detailed, and completed on schedule. Their professionalism and attention to detail made the approval process smooth and stress-free."
Ghulam Mohiuddin Virk
Verified Google Review
ANSWERS TO THE MOST COMMON QUESTIONS
Common building permit questions
Do I need a permit to build a basement apartment?
Most structural changes, additions, new basement suites, walkouts, load-bearing wall changes, and change-of-use projects require a building permit in Ontario. Send us your address and scope and we’ll confirm which applies to you at no cost.
How much does a basement apartment permit cost?
Permit costs vary depending on your municipality, project scope, and any additional reviews that may be required. We can provide a customized estimate based on your specific project.
What documents are needed for a basement apartment permit?
A typical permit application includes detailed architectural drawings, floor plans, site information, and any supporting documents required by your local municipality. Additional engineering documents may be necessary for certain projects.
Can Permit Build handle the permit application?
Absolutely. Permit Build manages the entire permit process—from preparing the required drawings and documentation to submitting your application and assisting with municipal review comments.
Can I legalize an existing basement apartment?
Yes, in many cases. If your existing basement apartment does not meet current building or fire code requirements, we can assess the property, recommend any necessary upgrades, and help you obtain the approvals needed to legalize the unit.
Ready to Build a Legal Basement Apartment?
At Permit Build, we make the permit process simple, efficient, and stress-free. From professional drawings to permit approval, our team is here to help you move your project forward with confidence.