Want to build a basement apartment in Milton? Here’s what you need to know

With the cost of housing in Milton, and corresponding increase in rents, many local residents are looking for ways to turn their houses into a money maker.

And the provincial government has made things easier, enacting provincial legislation that overrides local rules when it comes to multiple residential units at house, semi-detached or townhouse.

Basically, as long as the dwelling it hooked up to Town sewer and water, two additional residential units are legal.

But that doesn’t mean there still aren’t rules to follow in Milton.

Before you bring in the construction team, make sure you know the ins and outs of adding a basement apartment.

In Milton, you need a building permit for any new exterior openings, including windows, doors, egress windows and below-grade entrances installed on the exterior of a house.

A permit for a basement walkout or exterior stairs, new window, door, or side entrance costs $253.94. To create a finished basement, the cost of a permit is $6.29 per sq.-m., with a minimum cost of $253.94.

Depending on the type of renovation, you may also be required to submit additional forms, along with your permit application.

New secondary suite construction will also need a building inspection that will typically include framing, insulation and air barrier, plumbing, heating and the final building.

Despite the loosening of the rules around additional residential units, they still must comply with town bylaws and the Ontario Building Code.

For more information about local rules, visit the Town website.