Basement suites are a popular housing option in Edmonton, as tenants can enjoy in-suite amenities and on-site parking at a lower price than many apartments. If you’ve been thinking about transforming your basement into a legal suite, our team at Peak Improvements is here to help.
First, it’s important to understand Edmonton’s legal basement suite requirements to create a rental that meets municipal standards, fits your budget, and aligns with your aesthetic taste. Below, we’ll discuss the ins and outs of these requirements and why you can trust Peak Improvements to meet local construction standards.
What Does My Basement Suite Need to Be Considered “Legal?”
If you plan to renovate your basement suite and list it for rent, there are a few legal standards it needs to follow. The city of Edmonton has certain zoning and safety requirements for legal suites to ensure potential tenants’ safety, privacy, and well-being.
Legal basement suites in Edmonton must include the following:
A Separate Entrance
Legal suites must have a separate entrance that doesn’t require tenants to access your main living area. Shared backyard or side doors with a communal landing are eligible choices. Our contractors will install solid-core doors for this entryway to maintain both you and your tenant’s privacy and security.
Egress Windows
Egress windows, which can open from inside, act as a fire-safe exit point for basement suites. You can work with our designers to locate egress windows that fit safety standards and your style, and our contractors will install them in each basement bedroom.
Fire Safe Protection
For enhanced safety, you must include other fire-safe protocols in addition to an exit. Sound, smoke, and fire barriers should be installed between the dwellings, along with interconnected smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. At Peak Improvements, we partner with top-level tradespersons to guarantee fire-safe electrical work and installation.
A Dedicated Heating Source
Your legal suite must have a dedicated heat source to ensure the comfort and safety of your tenant. Systems like a forced-air furnace, electric baseboard heating, or hydronic radiant heating are acceptable heat sources that our partnered HVAC specialists can skillfully install.
Things to Keep in Mind
Preparation is the key to a successful renovation. Before contacting our team to discuss your project, make sure you…
- Set a budget: Renovating a legal basement suite isn’t cheap. Establish a realistic budget that includes the cost of zoning and safety requirements. The legal suite budget calculator from Peak Improvements can help you determine what additional features you can include in your basement suite to enhance your tenant’s comfort.
- Know your audience: All potential tenants have different price points. Whether you’re planning to accommodate college students or established working professionals, your design should reflect the level of luxury your potential tenant can afford.
Once you complete these steps, it’s time to get the ball rolling on your basement suite design plan. Our team at Peak Improvements will help you every step of the way, from selecting kitchen countertops to installing closet doors.
Why Choose Peak Improvements for a Legal Basement Suite Renovation
Our team at Peak Improvements is well-versed in Edmonton’s legal basement suite requirements. From the initial design to the final hardware installation, we guarantee a safe and legal suite for your tenants.
Ready to get started? Contact us today to discuss your renovation plans.