Legal Basement in Etobicoke – Expert Secondary Suite Renovations & Legalization

Why Etobicoke Homeowners Are Adding Legal Basements in 2026

Etobicoke’s real estate market remains one of Toronto’s hottest, with average detached homes now exceeding $1.4 million. A legal basement in Etobicoke can generate $2,000–$3,200/month in rental income while adding $200K+ to your property value. Popular reasons Etobicoke families choose us:

Help cover skyrocketing  mortgage payments

Create private space for aging parents

Rent to College students or Pearson Airport workers

Significantly increase home’s resale value

Etobicoke Basement Apartment Bylaws – What You Need to Know

RequirementDetails
Maximum UnitsUp to 2 basement units allowed (in addition to main house)
Ceiling HeightMinimum 1.95 m (6′5″) over the entire basement floor area
Separate EntranceRequired (side or rear preferred in Etobicoke’s residential zones)
Windows/EgressEvery bedroom needs an egress window (min 0.35 m², sill ≤ 1 m from floor)
ParkingOften 1 space can be eliminated for the secondary suite
Fire Separation30–45 minute rating between units, interconnected smoke/CO alarms
RegistrationNot mandatory but strongly recommended via Toronto’s online portal

Our Proven Process for Legal Basements in Etobicoke

  1. Free on-site consultation & feasibility check
  2. Professional drawings & permits (we handle everything)
  3. Structural work
  4. Electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and fire safety upgrades
  5. ESA inspection & final Sera approval
  6. Move-in ready suite with modern finishes

Typical timeline: 10–16 weeks Average cost (2026): $85,000 – $165,000 depending on size and scope


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Looking for a legal basement in Etobicoke? You’re in the right place. We specialize in creating fully compliant, income-generating basement apartments, and in-law suites and secondary suite in Etobicoke, from Rexdale to Long Branch, Mimico to Humber Valley Village.





    FAQ – Most Commonly Asked Questions About Legal Basements in Etobicoke

    1How much does it cost to build a legal basement in Etobicoke?

    A fully 2-bedroom legal basement apartment in Etobicoke costs $85,000–$165,000 on average (including permits, and high-end finishes). Basic 1-bedroom units can start around $70,000.

    2Are basement apartments legal in Etobicoke 2026?

    Yes – 100% legal across all of Etobicoke (and Toronto) since the 2019/2020 bylaw changes. You can have up to two secondary suites in your basement as long as they meet fire, ceiling height, and separate entrance rules.

    3Do I need a permit for a legal basement apartment in Etobicoke?

    Yes, you need building permits, electrical permits, and usually HVAC/plumbing permits. We handle the entire permit process for you.

    4How long does it take to legalize a basement in Etobicoke?

    From start to final occupancy: 10–16 weeks on average (permits 4–8 weeks + construction 8–10 weeks).

    5Can I have a legal basement apartment if my house is less than 5 years old in Etobicoke?

    Yes! Toronto removed the 5-year age restriction years ago (unlike Mississauga). New builds and older homes are both eligible.

    6How much rent can I get for a legal basement in Etobicoke?

    1-bedroom: $1,800–$2,400/month
    2-bedroom: $2,400–$3,200/month
    3-bedroom: $3,000–$4,000+/month (especially Rexdale or near Humber College)