Basement apartment- The Second Dwelling

Most existing two-unit homes are permitted under the new legislation, provided they meet applicable municipal planning standards too. And two unit houses should have met Fire Code requirements as well. In general a new apartments must comply with the Building Code and existing apartments must comply with the Fire Code. Both the new and existing apartments must comply with certain property and municipal planning standards. Municipalities have the right to decide where they will allow homes to have additional dwelling units. They can designate areas where they will not allow homes to have additional dwelling units.

What to Consider when Building Basement Apartment?
Walls, floors, ceilings should be covered with materials with a 30 minute fire rating. They must also cover 15-minute fire rating and interconnected smoke alarms, throughout all dwellings in the house. All homeowners must maintain smoke detectors on every elevation and even if the dwelling is not rented or sub-let. Check with the local, provincial or state authority to confirm requirements for smoke detectors in that area. Materials not rated for fire protection are not recommended and usually require installation of a sprinkler system throughout all dwellings in the house. A private entrance must be provided and the route must not involve entering another dwelling. A second means of exit must be provided which can be another door, which is easily accessible and unobstructed.

Before Building an Basement Apartment Consult Building Code section, to determine the possibility and practicality of the project going to be constructed. Apply for a building permit as well. Consult with local fire and building officials, before actually starting construction and to ensure that the apartment will pass their inspections.

Beware of
There are some private inspection firms who are attempting to capitalize on this opportunity by advertising themselves as basement apartment and fire code specialists. Municipal Building & Fire Departments are the only organizations that have the authority to determine constitute code compliance. So don't get fooled. And check the best people to advice for getting. The estimated cost to upgrade or correct an existing basement apartment can be very high so be careful while getting things done.

our fixture section. There is more specific information in the links at the beginning of this article. They can guide you where you need to go.