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Minimum height requirement to finish a basement?

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Posted by: from Toronto
11/23/2016 at 12:12:07 PM

There are no plans to make it a separate apartment, I would just like to gut the single room that is there and finish the ceiling as well as putting in a floor, bathroom and possibly a bedroom.

I can't find anywhere in the building code or zoning bylaws that discusses this specifically.

REPLIES (6)
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Date/Time11/23/2016 at 4:12:04 PM

I believe Toronto is just over 6'+ but if its not for a suite they won't make you underpin to raise it just if it was a rental. Call the city 311 and its such a common question they will be able to answer you quickly you won't find anything in code books its a city regulation.

Good Luck

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Date/Time11/23/2016 at 4:22:22 PM

Minimum floor ceiling height of 6'-5' in habitable areas, including means of egress and the minimum room height shall not be less than 6'-8' over at least 50% of the required floor area. For new residential construction,requires a minimum height of 7'-7' over 50% of the required area or 6'-11' over all of the required floor area.

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Date/Time11/23/2016 at 6:10:08 PM

Ceiling Height: As a health and safety matter, the Ontario Building Code regulates a minimum ceiling height in all finished spaces. Basement spaces are permitted to be as low as 1950mm (6' 5") under beams and ducts, however at least 75% of the required floor area must be at least 2100mm (6' 11") high. you can call the local township for more details as it may vary from city to city etc.

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Date/Time11/23/2016 at 6:20:14 PM

Best to check with local building inspector. I was also told that a dropped ceiling MAY be acceptable at less than 82" but keep in mind that most doors are 81" (approx.) so check the local code first and adjust door height if need be. Also, if this is your first basement project, know that the windows must meet code (egress) ... a safety feature to allow an escape route in the case on an emergency. Short answer ... check local code.

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Date/Time11/23/2016 at 9:24:52 PM

Hi,

My name dario from palumbo construction. All depending on municipal bylaw should be 7.6"high. You can always go to city hall and speak with the building inspector, or clerk which gives out the permits.

Regards,

Dario palumbo

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Date/Time11/24/2016 at 8:08:28 AM

Alvaro from Kitchener has it exactly correct

This is you're minimum heights.

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