Buying a house in Vancouver is an exciting milestone, and I’m thrilled to share that a couple of my clients bought houses and officially the new owners of a beautiful home here! Their plan is to move in by the end of September or the best time possible, which means the next few weeks will be a whirlwind of activity as I prepare for this big transition.
One of the top priorities right after closing is to start renovations immediately. The house has so much potential, but there are a few updates and improvements one wants to make to truly make it his/her own. From refreshing the kitchen and bathrooms to updating the flooring and giving the walls a fresh coat of paint, these changes will help create a comfortable and modern living space.
Our design and construction team can help you to prioritize your changes and create the best environment for you!
Starting renovations right away is key because everyone wants the house to be move-in ready by the end of September. They have already begun researching us to ensure they have trustworthy professionals on board who understand their vision. It’s important to maintain the character of the home while incorporating modern touches that enhance both aesthetics and functionality.
Renovating a home can be a challenging process, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. They are looking forward to documenting this journey, sharing before-and-after photos, and maybe even some tips and lessons learned along the way. If you’re planning a similar move or renovation in Vancouver, I hope this experience can offer some helpful insights.
Stay tuned for updates as I embark on this exciting new chapter!
Remodelling or renovating a basement can transform an underutilized space into a functional and attractive part of your home. Whether you want to create a cozy living area, a home office, a gym, or an entertainment room, careful planning and execution are key to a successful basement renovation.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do if you want to remodel or renovate a basement in your house:
Assess Your Space and Needs Start by evaluating the current condition of your basement. Check for any signs of moisture, mould, or structural issues, as these must be addressed before you begin any remodelling work. Consider what you want to use the space for and how much room you need. This will help you determine the scope of your project.
Set a Budget Basement renovations can vary widely in cost depending on the complexity and finishes you choose. Establish a realistic budget that includes materials, labour, permits, and a contingency for unexpected expenses. Having a clear budget will help guide your decisions throughout the project.
Check Local Building Codes and Permits Before starting your renovation, research local building codes and zoning regulations. Many basement projects require permits, especially if you’re adding bedrooms, bathrooms, or egress windows. Obtaining the necessary permits ensures your renovation is safe and legal.
Plan the Layout and Design Design the layout based on your intended use for the basement. Think about lighting, ventilation, insulation, and moisture control. If you’re not confident in your design skills, consider consulting with a professional architect or designer to maximize the space and functionality.
Address Moisture and Waterproofing Basements are prone to moisture problems, which can lead to mould and damage. Waterproofing the basement is crucial. This may involve sealing cracks, installing a sump pump, improving drainage, and using moisture-resistant materials.
Hire Qualified Contractors Unless you’re experienced in construction, it’s wise to hire licensed contractors for plumbing, electrical work, framing, drywall, and finishing. Check references, get multiple quotes, and ensure your contractors are insured and licensed.
Begin Construction Once all plans, permits, and contractors are in place, start the renovation. This typically involves framing walls, running electrical and plumbing lines, insulating, drywall installation, flooring, and painting. Regularly communicate with your contractor to stay updated on progress and address any issues promptly.
Finalize with Furnishing and Decorating After construction is complete, furnish and decorate your new basement space according to its purpose. Choose furniture, lighting, and décor that complement the design and make the space inviting and comfortable.
Inspect and Maintain Once your basement renovation is complete, inspect the work to ensure everything meets your expectations and code requirements. Maintain the space by monitoring for any signs of moisture or damage and addressing issues quickly to keep your basement in great condition.
By following these steps, you can successfully remodel or renovate your basement to add value, comfort, and functionality to your home. Planning carefully and working with professionals will help you achieve a beautiful and lasting result. You can contact us for a free consultation and make sure to have the right steps before putting yourself in a big expense.
Do you want to legalize a Secondary Suite in Vancouver?
Secondary suites are a popular housing option in Vancouver, providing homeowners with additional income opportunities while offering affordable housing alternatives for renters. However, creating a secondary suite involves adhering to specific regulations and obtaining the necessary approvals to ensure the suite is safe, legal, and compliant with municipal bylaws. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply for a legal secondary suite in the City of Vancouver. Some people choose to use this suite as an Airbnb short-term rental.
Step 1: Understand the Regulations
Before you begin, familiarize yourself with the bylaws and requirements for secondary suites in Vancouver. Some key considerations include:
Zoning: Ensure your property is zoned to allow secondary suites. Most single-family residential zones in Vancouver permit secondary suites, but it’s essential to confirm with the city.
Size Requirements: The suite must meet minimum and maximum size regulations. Typically, the suite cannot exceed 90 square meters (969 square feet) or 40% of the total floor area of the home. Ask your municipal hall, as they might have changed some items.
Owner Occupancy: The property owner must reside in either the main dwelling or the secondary suite.
Parking: You must provide at least one additional off-street parking space for the suite. This item needs to be confirmed with the zoning, as in many cases it has been relaxed already.
Step 2: Check Building Code Compliance
Vancouver requires that all secondary suites comply with the Vancouver Building Code. This includes:
Fire Safety: The suite must have proper fire separation, smoke alarms, and carbon monoxide detectors.
Ceiling Height: The minimum ceiling height for habitable spaces is typically 2.0 meters (6.5 feet).
Windows and Ventilation: Adequate windows and ventilation must be provided, including egress windows in bedrooms for emergency escape.
Plumbing and Electrical: Ensure all plumbing and electrical systems meet code standards.
If your suite does not meet these requirements, renovations may be necessary to bring it up to code. You can contact us to help you with the renovation project or call us to make observations to see if your unit qualifies for this.
Step 3: Prepare Your Application
Once you’ve confirmed that your property is eligible and the suite meets the necessary requirements, you can prepare your application. You’ll need:
Building Permit Application: Complete the building permit application form available on the City of Vancouver’s website.
Detailed Plans: Submit detailed floor plans showing the layout of the proposed suite, including room sizes, window placements, and locations of smoke alarms and fire separations.
Site Plan: Provide a site plan showing the property boundaries, existing structures, and parking layout.
Fees: Pay the applicable permit fees, which vary depending on the scope of the work.
We can help you with all the above processes to make it easier for you!
Step 4: Submit Your Application
Submit your completed application package to the Vancouver Building Department. City staff will review your plans to ensure they comply with zoning regulations and building codes. If your application is incomplete or does not meet the requirements, you may be asked to make revisions.
Step 5: Complete Inspections
Once your application is approved and you have your building permit, you can begin any necessary construction or renovations. During this process, city inspectors will conduct several inspections to ensure the work complies with the approved plans and building codes. Inspections typically include:
Foundation (if applicable)
Framing
Plumbing and Electrical
Final occupancy
Step 6: Obtain Final Approval
After passing all inspections, you’ll receive final approval from the city. Your secondary suite will now be officially recognized as legal, and you can begin renting it out.
Additional Tips
Consult a Professional: If you’re unsure about the process or requirements, consider hiring an architect, designer, or contractor who specializes in secondary suites.
Stay Informed: Regulations and fees may change over time, so always check with the City of Vancouver for the latest information.
Consider Utilities: Ensure the suite has separate metering for utilities if desired, and that it’s energy-efficient to keep operating costs low.
By following these steps, you can successfully create a legal secondary suite in Vancouver, benefiting both your household and the community. With proper planning and attention to detail, you’ll be well on your way to adding value to your property while contributing to the local housing supply.
