Categories

Different between Legal Basement and Second Dwelling Unit in Brampton?

Question Icon
Posted by: from Brampton
12/13/2020 at 11:13:30 AM

1. What is the difference between a legal basement and Second Dwelling unit?

2. Does the second dwelling unit require some extra construction work compared to the Legal basement?

3. Does it cost more or is it just a matter of an application to submit in a city to register a legal basement for a second unit?

4. What will be an approximate cost to build a legal basement in a 1000 square feet basement area in Brampton (with below grade entrance)?

REPLIES (5)
User Icon
Date/Time12/13/2020 at 5:36:59 PM

Hi

Legal basement means second unit that legally can be rented for another family with separate entrance .It has especiall requilernt from both ( city and ESA ) to be followed -

That cost is very depends on you and I would say between 50k to 75k .

Regard ,

Sam

User Icon
Reza from Mipa Plumbing in Aurora
Date/Time12/13/2020 at 5:45:58 PM

Hi

A legal basement is mandatory to get building permit for a basement with rooms ,kitchen, bathroom and laundry with a separate entrance . second Dwelling is a private kitchen, bathroom facilities and sleeping areas. It is located in your house. for 1000 sqft basement finishing. It cost you 40k to 50k independent on your plan and materials.

Good luck

User Icon
Date/Time12/13/2020 at 6:23:27 PM

1. They are the same.

If you want to add your basement to residential area, but not add a kitchen, it's a finished basement project.

2.Yes, as it's adding a unit and needs lots of things like fire separation with existing unit, etc, etc.

3.It costs more in compare to finish the basement.

4. It depends lots of things. better to submit a request in the TrustedPros website.

User Icon
Date/Time12/15/2020 at 9:11:16 AM

As we don't build in Brampton I would only be guessing at what the differences and cost would be there, or I could only comment on what the differences are cost are here in Calgary and souronding areas. As the guidelines differ from one city to the next, this based on each cities bylaws rules and building permit requirements.

Here in Calgary the city has a very detailed breakdown of what is needed and the permit cost associated in their website. The addition construction cost for a fully legal suite can vary greatly based on what is already existing, for example if there is no proper egress window, then one would need to be cut in and would add about $1,600 to $2,000, same issue with access, a separate legal entrance could add another $4,000 to $6,000 for installing a pre cast stair well, plus the extra Mecanical cost, fire code upgrades etc.

User Icon
Reham in Oakville / Ontario
Date/Time9/6/2023 at 6:21:56 AM

Legal Basement vs. Second Dwelling Unit:

A legal basement is a basement within a single-family dwelling that meets specific municipal bylaws and building code requirements to be used as a separate living space. It typically has its own entrance, kitchen, bathroom, and meets safety standards.

A second dwelling unit, on the other hand, is a separate and self-contained unit within a property, like a basement apartment or an accessory dwelling unit (ADU), that is legally permitted to be occupied by a separate household. It may or may not be located in the basement.

Construction Requirements:

Both legal basements and second dwelling units require compliance with building codes and bylaws, but the extent of construction work may vary.

A legal basement may require renovations to ensure it meets safety and zoning regulations.

A second dwelling unit may involve more extensive construction work, such as adding a separate entrance, installing a full kitchen, and ensuring proper fire separation.

Cost and Application:

The cost for making a basement legal or establishing a second dwelling unit depends on various factors, including the existing condition of the space and the extent of required renovations.

For a legal basement, the cost may involve renovations, permit fees, and inspections.

Establishing a second dwelling unit can be more costly due to the need for additional construction work.

Both options require submitting applications and obtaining necessary permits from the city, which may have associated fees.

Approximate Cost for a Legal Basement in Brampton (1000 sq ft):

The cost can vary significantly, but here are some rough estimates:

Basic renovation and legalizing existing space: $15,000 - $25,000.

Extensive renovations and upgrades: $30,000 - $50,000 or more.

Costs may increase if structural changes or additional amenities are needed.

Please note that these are approximate costs, and it's essential to consult with local contractors and authorities in Brampton for precise estimates and to ensure compliance with local regulations.

Search the TrustedPros directory and discover the best contractors in your area.

Find your home service pro
Great renovations start with a great contractor.

Since 2004, TrustedPros has been helping homeowners find the right contractor for their home improvements and repairs.

Post Your Project

Within hours you'll be comparing offers from top-rated professionals. It's free to post and you're under no obligation to hire.

 
Trustedpros Inc. does not warrant the accuracy, completeness, safety, legality or usefulness of any Content, or Whether Content is Current and up-to-date, and TrustedPros Inc. Shall have no liability whatsoever with respect to your use or reliance upon any content or for content being removed or otherwise ceasing to be available. Please refer to the terms and conditions of use of this websites for more details.
Categories

Get quotes from top-rated contractors

x