- Earn extra income: Rent out a secondary unit to generate rental revenue.
- Boost property value: Additional living spaces can make your property worth more.
- Support family living: Perfect for multi-generational households while maintaining privacy.
- Address housing shortages: Add rental options within established neighbourhoods.
Halifax's recent updates make it easier:
- Simplified permits for secondary units.
- Reduced lot size rules for backyard homes.
- Flexible parking requirements and updated building codes.
- Grants up to $12,000 through the Second Unit Incentive Program.
Options to consider:
- Secondary Suites: Built within your home, like a basement apartment.
- Backyard Homes: Detached units built on your property.
Costs start at $168/m², but you can offset expenses with grants and rental income. Follow Halifax's 4-step process: check zoning, create a plan, get permits, and build.
For more details, consult Halifax's Secondary Suite Guidelines or explore pre-designed options from local builders like Helio Urban Development.
What To Consider Before Building Backyard Suites In Halifax
Types of Additional Living Spaces
Homeowners in Halifax looking to expand their living space generally choose between two main options: adding a secondary suite within their current home or building a separate backyard home. Each choice comes with specific zoning and construction requirements.
Secondary Suites vs. Backyard Homes
Secondary suites are part of the main house, like a basement apartment. On the other hand, backyard homes, often called coach houses, are separate structures built on the property. The key difference lies in their placement - inside the main home or as a detached unit.
Property and Zoning Rules
Zoning rules depend on your property type, such as a single-family home or duplex. It's important to check these regulations to determine which option is suitable for your property.
Rules and Building Standards
After zoning considerations, building standards outline essential design features to ensure safety and fit within the neighbourhood.
Make sure your secondary suite or backyard home complies with Halifax's building and safety regulations. These rules focus on design aspects that prioritise safety, usability, and the overall look of the area.
Key elements include:
- A separate entrance for the unit
- Setback rules to maintain adequate spacing between structures
- Height restrictions to avoid overshadowing and maintain neighbourhood appeal
- Lot coverage limits to ensure enough open space is preserved
For the most up-to-date guidelines, check with Halifax's planning and building departments.
4 Steps to Add a Secondary Unit
Follow these steps to add a secondary living space to your property in Halifax.
1. Check Your Property's Status
Start by confirming your property's eligibility using Halifax's online portal. You'll need to verify details like zoning, lot size, setbacks, height restrictions, and any size limits.
The Halifax Regional Municipality (HRM) Planning Department provides detailed property records on its website. For extra clarity, consider booking a pre-application meeting with a development officer. This can help you identify any potential hurdles early and ensure your plans are on the right track.
2. Create Your Unit Plan
Develop a detailed plan for your new unit that includes:
- Placement and orientation of the unit
- Access routes and parking arrangements
- Utility connections to the main property
- An interior layout that complies with building codes
- An exterior design that matches the main dwelling
Working with a licensed architect can help ensure your plan meets all requirements and is well-optimized. Once your plan is finalized, you'll be ready to move forward with permits.
3. Get Permits and Build
With your plan in hand, apply for the necessary approvals, which include:
- Submitting detailed construction drawings
- Applying for both building and development permits
- Scheduling required inspections during the construction process
- Securing an occupancy permit after the project is complete
Make sure to hire contractors who have experience with secondary unit projects in Halifax to ensure a smooth building process.
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Costs and Financial Support
Building a secondary unit is a major expense but can offer solid financial returns. Construction costs usually start at $168 per square metre with fixed-price construction, giving you clear and upfront pricing.
Halifax Grant Program
The Halifax Regional Municipality runs the Second Unit Incentive Program, which provides homeowners with up to $12,000 in grants to help fund secondary suites. Be sure to check the eligibility requirements and application process. These grants can work alongside the financial benefits outlined below.
Return on Investment
Secondary suites can generate rental income and increase the overall value of your property. Some of the financial advantages include:
- Extra rental income
- Increased property value
- Potential tax perks
- More housing options
Choosing an experienced builder like Helio Urban Development ensures cost predictability through fixed-price construction packages. Their pre-designed layouts are tailored to maximize rental opportunities, making it easier to turn your secondary unit into a secure and profitable investment.
Building and Safety Standards
Make sure your Halifax secondary unit complies with local building codes to ensure occupant safety and maintain neighbourhood standards.
Safety Requirements
Halifax's building code focuses on several key safety aspects for secondary suites:
- Fire Safety: Install smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire-resistant barriers to support safe evacuation.
- Sound Insulation: Use proper soundproofing materials as required by the code.
- Essential Systems: Ensure heating, ventilation, electrical, and plumbing systems meet all code requirements.
- Access and Egress: Provide a private entrance that complies with local regulations.
Pre-Designed Unit Options
Helio Urban Development offers pre-designed packages that fully adhere to Halifax safety requirements. Each unit type is built with safety measures already in place.
| Unit Type | Description | Key Safety Features |
|---|---|---|
| Basement Suite | A basement suite tailored for safety codes | Fire safety systems and proper ventilation |
| Garden Suite | A detached suite designed to meet all codes | Built-in fire safety and secure private access |
| Garage Conversion | A renovated garage space meeting regulations | Fully compliant with building and safety codes |
These options not only meet Halifax standards but also add value to your property.
Next Steps
Thinking about adding a secondary unit in Halifax? Here's how to move from planning to action:
- Check Zoning and Eligibility: Reach out to Halifax's Planning & Development team to confirm if your property is eligible for an additional dwelling unit.
- Apply for Financial Assistance: Halifax offers a Second Unit Incentive Program, which provides up to $12,000 to help with construction expenses. Apply online to take advantage of this support.
- Work with a Licensed Contractor: Find a contractor familiar with secondary suite requirements. They can help you design a unit that meets building codes, including features like separate entrances, fire safety systems, soundproofing, and parking.
- Get Your Building Permit: Obtain a complete building permit application package from your local Development Office.
- Schedule a Site Assessment: Arrange a preliminary site visit with the Planning Department to address any potential issues before construction begins.
For detailed regulations and compliance drawings, download Halifax's Secondary Suite Guidelines.
You can also contact Helio Urban Development to explore pre-designed unit options that align with Halifax's building standards.
FAQs
What are the benefits of adding a secondary suite or backyard home to my property in Halifax?
Adding a secondary suite or backyard home to your property in Halifax comes with several advantages. It can provide a steady source of rental income, increase your property value, and offer a flexible housing option for family members or guests.
Halifax has recently made it easier for homeowners to add these units. Many single-family zones now permit secondary suites as-of-right, and the Second Unit Incentive Program offers up to $12,000 in grants to help cover construction costs. This makes it a great time to invest in expanding your property while contributing to the local housing supply.
How can I find out if my property qualifies for a secondary suite or backyard home in Halifax?
To determine if your property is eligible for adding a secondary suite or backyard home, start by reviewing the zoning regulations in your area. Many single-family residential zones in Halifax now permit secondary units as-of-right, meaning you may not need special approvals.
You’ll also need to ensure your plans comply with building codes and obtain the necessary permits. Checking with the Halifax Regional Municipality (HRM) is a great first step to confirm your property’s eligibility and understand the specific requirements.
What financial support is available for building a secondary suite in Halifax?
Homeowners in Halifax may qualify for the Second Unit Incentive Program, which provides up to $12,000 in grants to help with the construction of secondary suites or backyard homes. This program is part of the city’s efforts to address the housing shortage and make it easier for property owners to add legal rental units.
To take advantage of this opportunity, ensure your project meets zoning and building code requirements, and apply through the program while funding is available.
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