Many Edmonton homeowners are turning their basements into secondary suites. Before you jump into renting out your basement, it’s important to create a space that meets the legal requirements and is welcoming to potential tenants.
You’re in good hands with our team at Peak Improvements. We’ll walk you through how to make your basement renter-friendly while also meeting all legal suite requirements in Edmonton. Keep reading to learn how!
Why Develop a Basement Suite in Edmonton?
Basement suites are in high demand, especially in Edmonton. Our city is filled with university students looking to rent while they complete their studies, and renting your basement is the perfect opportunity to accommodate their needs.
Whatever your reason for building a suite in your basement, Peak Improvements knows how to create quality with proper designs, planning, and, most importantly, with legal compliance.
There are many useful reasons for transforming your basement into a suite. When you’re planning to build a secondary suite in the basement, you can potentially increase your home’s value. Taking on tenants will also generate supplemental income for your household.
Understand the Legal Requirements in Edmonton
One of the most critical steps of this journey is obtaining the proper permits for construction. Without these permits, your suite is not legal and is considered unsafe.
Key legal requirements include:
- Separate entrances
- Egress windows
- Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
- Fire separation between units
- Independent heating and ventilation systems
Some local permits and zoning vary depending on your neighbourhood. Peak Improvements will work with you to ensure full compliance from day one. We will inform you which permits you need to be obtained and Peak will secure those on your behalf.
What Makes a Suite Renter Friendly
Style and taste in home design change, but when you’re considering a versatile space for renters, some features help your space stand out to potential tenants.
Must-have features for a renter-friendly basement suite:
- Open-concept layout for kitchen and living room areas
- In-suite laundry
- Modern finishes
- Good lighting and sound insulation
Optional upgrades that bring in long-term renters:
- Full-sized appliances like a dishwasher
- Dedicated parking and outdoor space
- Updated bathrooms and heated floors
A well-designed basement suite not only lasts longer but is more desirable on the rental market. Our team can help you decide which features work best for you and your budget. You can use our legal suite budget calculator to estimate the cost of your legal suite and help you determine which features you can include to enhance your tenant’s comfort.
Why Work with Peak Improvements
Creating a legal basement suite isn’t just about the drywall and flooring. Experience, planning, and permits also play a significant role in making this project a success. Peak Improvements’ experts help you at every step, from the concept to the project completion, while staying focused on quality and legal compliance.
Our gallery showcases our track record of successful basement suite projects. Make sure to check it out and give us a call to book a consultation today.