How to Save Money on Your Next Secondary Suite Project

Secondary suites, like basement apartments or garden suites, can add value, flexibility, and income potential to a home. However, costs can climb quickly without careful planning. By working with what already exists in the property and understanding what’s required by the Ontario Building Code, homeowners can stretch their budgets further while staying compliant.

Use Existing Plumbing or Rough-Ins

One of the most cost-effective strategies is designing the suite around existing plumbing lines or rough-ins. The Ontario Building Code requires that secondary suites have dedicated kitchens and bathrooms, which makes tapping into current supply and drainage systems a major advantage. Not only does this reduce labour and material costs, but it can also shorten your construction timeline.

Make Use of Existing Windows

Windows play a key role in meeting natural light and egress requirements under the Ontario Building Code, particularly in bedrooms and below-grade spaces. By designing around existing window placements that already meet size and clearance standards, you can avoid the high cost of cutting new openings or enlarging existing ones. This also helps preserve the structural integrity of foundation walls, which is especially important in older homes.

Align Design with Your Budget and Goals

At the end of the day, the scope of your secondary suite should reflect both your goals, whether it’s rental income, multigenerational living, or resale value, and your budget. While it’s tempting to go all-in on upgrades, identifying “must-haves” versus “nice-to-haves” early on will guide smarter financial decisions. At House of Three our team can help you strike the right balance between compliance, comfort, and cost.

Saving money on your secondary suite doesn’t mean cutting corners, it means planning smarter. By leveraging what the existing space already offers and staying aligned with code requirements, you can create a legal, livable suite without overspending. 

For more information, contact the team at House of Three!