Exploring Secondary Suites: Maximizing Property Potential
Amidst rising inflation and interest rates, homeowners are increasingly seeking ways to leverage their properties for additional income. One savvy strategy is the addition of an accessory suite, whether for rental purposes or to accommodate family members.
Understanding Accessory/Secondary Suites:
A secondary suite constitutes a self-contained living space within a property, typically featuring a private kitchen, bathroom, and separate entrance. These units can be integrated within the main dwelling, such as a basement apartment, or detached from it, like a laneway house or coach house.
Types of Secondary Suites:
While basement suites are familiar, other options include Garden and Garage Suites:
A garden suite is a small home separate from the principal residence, usually in a backyard. It has a kitchen, bed and bathroom separate from the principal home
A garage suite is a small home above a garage or attached to it. It has its own door, separate from the vehicle entrance and has a kitchen, bed and bathroom separate from the principal home.
A secondary suite is a small home located within the principal residence. It has a kitchen, bed and bathroom separate from the principal home.
Navigating Zoning Laws and Bylaws:
The feasibility of adding a secondary suite hinges on factors like property size and community Land Use Bylaws. Understanding these regulations is crucial in determining the type of suite permissible for your property.
Legal vs. unauthorized (illegal) suites:
Not all secondary suites are legal. Many existing units were created without proper authorization or fail to meet legal requirements.
Property owners must obtain authorization from their municipality and adhere to strict building codes to create and maintain a legal secondary suite. Legal suites in Calgary are eligible for a City of Calgary secondary suite sticker to show their legal suite status—secondary suite registration stickers never expire.
However, suite owners must maintain compliance with safety codes and any subsequent changes in regulations.
Calgary’s secondary suite registry:
In Calgary, a secondary suite is considered legal if it’s on the City’s Secondary Suite Registry.
The registry includes suites that have obtained all necessary permits and meet Alberta’s Safety Code requirements.
Benefits of Legal Suites:
Legal suites offer several advantages, including eligibility for mortgage qualifications and potential financing benefits through rental income. However, maintaining compliance with safety codes and regulations is paramount for suite owners.
Seeking Guidance:
For homeowners considering legalizing an existing suite or developing a space for this purpose, consulting the local municipal planning department is crucial. They can provide guidance on the necessary permits and regulations to ensure compliance.
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