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Toronto Laneway Housing Project

FAQs

1. Is my property eligible for an as-of-right Laneway Suite?

In order to qualify for an as-of-right Laneway suite, your property must:

  1. Reside within the policy boundary area and
  2. Have an R (Residential) zone as per the Toronto Zoning By-law (RS, RM, RD etc. do not qualify)
  3. Must abut a municipally designated laneway for a minimum width of 3.5 meters
  4. For emergency service access, provide a 1.0 meter wide unobstructed path of access from your front curb or be located within 45.0 meters of the end of the laneway

These are minimum requirements, and minor variations may be acquired in some cases. If you do not satisfy these requirements, or are unsure of how to determine your eligibility, send us an email.

2. Can I sever my Laneway Suite?

Laneway suites are non-severable and must share a lot and municipal services with the primary residence. Laneway suites are a great means of increasing property value, providing supplementary rental income or increasing habitable space on your existing property.

3. How do I provide services (gas, electricity, and water) to my Laneway Suite?

Services to your laneway suite are typically supplied from the main house. When extending services from the primary residence, the incoming services must meet minimum sizes to accommodate the additional demand. We recommend sub-metering the laneway suite.

4. How much will my Laneway Suite cost to build?

As with any construction project, costs vary depending on existing conditions, the building design, and size. Generally, laneway suites cost significantly less than condos, and produce significantly more income than basement apartments or other types of secondary suites.

For more details on cost and revenue, or to inquire about municipal incentives for fixed below market-rate rental suites, send us an email.

5. Will a Laneway Suite increase my property value?

An income-generating unit will marginally increase costs, and significantly increase revenue and equity value. In the majority of cases, a properly executed laneway suite will produce income and equity, both in the short and long term.

 

Still have questions? Please send us an email with any inquiries pertaining to the by-laws, your property’s particular circumstances, or how to get started on your own Laneway Suite. Be sure to include your address and a copy of your survey. We look forward to hearing from you!