Many Brampton basements are rented out without approval. A legal second unit protects you with insurance, lenders and future buyers, and lets you rent properly. Here is what the process looks like.
1. Check what your property allows
Brampton allows second and third units in detached, semi-detached and townhouse dwellings, subject to zoning. As of May 2023, the by-law allows a maximum of three units on a property, including the main house, in set combinations such as the house plus a basement unit plus a garden suite.
2. Get proper permit drawings
You need drawings that show the layout, fire separation, exits, windows, plumbing and HVAC. In Ontario these must be prepared by a qualified designer, such as a BCIN designer. At Empire our in-house BCIN designer prepares them.
3. Apply for the permit
The application includes your drawings and a legible legal survey with the surveyor's signature and information. If your lot is on conservation authority lands, you also need approval from Credit Valley Conservation or the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority before the permit can proceed.
4. Build to the approved drawings
Typical work includes fire-rated separations, interconnected smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, egress windows, a separate entrance where needed, and a full kitchen and bathroom.
5. Pass inspections
The city inspects the work at several stages. If an inspection fails twice, a recall fee applies to later inspections, so it pays to get it right the first time.
6. Register the unit
To be legal, second units, third units and garden suites must be registered with the City of Brampton.
Source: City of Brampton – Additional Residential Units. Rules change, so we confirm the current requirements for your address during a free assessment.