Second units
A rental unit that passes inspection
A basement apartment only counts as legal once the city approves it. That means a building permit, drawings that meet the Ontario Building Code and your city's zoning, and inspections at each stage of the work.
We plan the whole path before any wall goes up, so the layout, ceiling height, windows, entrance and fire separation are right the first time and you are not paying to redo work after an inspection.
- Permit drawingsPrepared by our in-house BCIN designer and submitted for you
- Separate entranceSide or rear entrances, including below-grade stairs
- Egress windowsEnlarged windows sized for bedroom escape
- Fire separationRated drywall, doors and interconnected smoke alarms
- Kitchen & washroomFull basement kitchen, bathroom and laundry
- MechanicalPlumbing, electrical and HVAC by licensed trades
How it works
How we build a legal basement
Site assessment
We measure the space and check ceiling height, windows, entrance options and the existing plumbing and electrical.
Drawings & permit
Our in-house BCIN designer prepares the permit drawings and we apply to the city, then answer any comments until the permit is issued.
Construction
Framing, fire separation, mechanical work and finishes are completed by our crew in planned stages.
Inspections & handover
We book and attend every inspection through to final approval, then walk you through the finished unit.
Why do it legally
What a legal unit gives you
- Rental incomeA tenant you can rent to properly can help cover your mortgage.
- Home valuePermitted living space is recognized by buyers, lenders and appraisers.
- Insurance peace of mindUnpermitted units can cause insurance and resale problems.
- Room for familyA self-contained suite for parents, grown children or guests.
Second-unit rules are not the same in every GTA city. During your assessment we confirm what applies to your address before you commit to anything.
Planning a budget? See our 2026 basement and legal basement cost guide.
From our jobs
Real Empire projects
FAQ
Common questions
Do you handle the permit application?
Yes. We prepare the drawings, submit the application, respond to city comments and book all inspections.
Can every basement become a legal unit?
Most can, but ceiling height, window sizes, entrance location and lot conditions all matter. We check these on the first visit and tell you honestly what is possible.
How long does it take?
It depends on the permit timeline in your city and the size of the job. You get a realistic schedule in writing with your estimate.
Can I live in the house during construction?
Usually yes. We plan the work so the upstairs stays livable, and we tell you in advance about any short shut-offs for water or power.
More services
Related work we do
Basement Finishing
Rec rooms, bedrooms, basement baths
Learn more →Bathroom Renovations
Showers, tile, vanities
Learn more →Kitchen Renovations
Cabinets, quartz, layouts
Learn more →Home Additions
Rear, side and second-storey
Learn more →Garden Suites
Backyard homes and rentals
Learn more →New Construction
Custom residential builds
Learn more →