At AJ Construction Canada, we deliver high-quality, licensed, and insured construction with expert craftsmanship and transparency. From planning to completion, we ensure timely, cost-effective, and stunning results tailored to your vision.
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Basement Suites
Unlock the Potential of Your Basement
Now is the perfect time to invest in a legal basement suite—with high rental demand and a tight housing market across Canada, the opportunity has never been greater. A well-designed suite can boost your property’s ROI, create a steady income stream, and contribute to easing the housing crisis.
Whether you’re looking to generate rental income or provide comfortable living space for aging parents or adult children, a basement suite offers smart, long-term value. It’s more than a renovation—it’s an investment in your future.
Legal & Illegal
Contrary to popular belief, having a finished and inviting space in the basement doesn’t automatically make it a legal suite. For a basement suite to be considered legal, it must comply with your city’s zoning laws, building permits, and construction regulations. This includes having proper zoning for secondary suites, approved plans, a separate entrance, adequate ceiling height, ventilation, and fire-rated materials. It also requires appropriate heating systems, fully functional kitchen and bathroom facilities, and proper egress windows for bedrooms.
Meeting these requirements ensures not only the safety and comfort of your tenants but also protects you as a homeowner. A legal suite adds long-term value to your home, makes it easier to insure, and provides peace of mind that your investment is secure and future-proof.
Egress Windows for Bedrooms
Each bedroom in a legal basement suite must be equipped with an egress window that meets the size standards set by the City of Calgary and local municipalities. This ensures occupants can safely exit in case of an emergency.
Separate Bathroom
A dedicated bathroom, separate from the main living area, is a must for a legal basement suite. It should be fully equipped with essential plumbing fixtures, including a toilet, sink, and either a bathtub or shower.
Separate Cooking Facilities
The suite must have its own cooking area, typically a kitchenette with basic appliances such as a stove and oven. These cooking facilities must be independent from those of the main dwelling.
Independent Entrance
A legal basement suite requires a separate entrance that is accessible from the outside without entering the main living area. A shared stairwell is acceptable as long as the suite has a private entry.
Separate Heating System
The suite must have an independent heating system, such as its own furnace, to ensure it operates separately from the main house. This allows for better control of the temperature and energy usage within the suite, ensuring that the heating needs of the basement suite do not interfere with those of the main residence.
Fire Safety
Fire safety is critical. The suite must be equipped with interconnected smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. These devices should be hardwired and interconnected between the main house and the basement suite for immediate alerts in case of danger.
Soundproofing
Adequate soundproofing between the basement suite and the main dwelling is necessary to reduce noise transmission. This helps meet legal requirements and enhances living quality for both parties.
Utility Setup
While a shared electrical panel is allowed, circuits between the main residence and the basement suite must be entirely separate. This ensures the suite’s occupants have full control over their utilities, adding safety and convenience.
Inspection Requirements
After the construction or renovation of a basement suite, it must pass several inspections—covering electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems—to ensure compliance with safety standards and municipal regulations. These inspections are essential to confirm the suite meets all required building codes.