R.Viau Drafting & Design Ltd. has drafted / constructed covered porches and decks all throughout Ottawa - wether it's retrofitting existing porches or creating new!  R.VIAU DRAFTING & DESIGN LTD. PORCH AND DECK PERMIT PLANS OVER 35+ YEARS OF SERVICE Ottawa Porches and Decks Plans R.Viau Drafting & Design Ltd. has drafted / constructed covered porches and decks all throughout Ottawa - wether it's retrofitting existing porches or creating new! A covered porch can be a beautiful and functional addition to your home, enhancing both its appearance and livability. By considering the purpose, style, materials, and features that will best suit your needs, you can create a porch that is both welcoming and comfortable. Planning your project Purpose Outdoor Living Space: If you plan to use it for entertaining, relaxing, or dining, you might want a larger porch Entryway: If it’s primarily for entry, you might want a smaller porch with just enough space for a couple of chairs or a small bench. Style and aesthetic The style of the porch should complement the overall architecture of your home. Consider the following design styles: Traditional Modern/Contemporary: Craftsman/Bungalow Farmhouse Coastal Size and location Consider how much space you have available and where you want the porch. There are a few options for placement: Front Porch Side Porch Wraparound Porch Back Porch Railings Wood railings are traditional and can be custom-designed with spindles or a more solid panel. Metal railings (welded iron or steel) can add a modern or industrial feel. If you want a more open, airy design, consider glass railings that provide visibility and maximize light. Ottawa Deck and Porch Builders Our process Site Visit Book us for a site visit! We'll review your project's goals and guide you into the right direction. Drafting We'll prepare preliminary plans to begin, then prepare official permit plans once we're happy with a result. Permit Application Once we're set with all the plans, we'll prepare a permit application, submit it and deal with all of the city's comments. Construction To make it even more seamless for our clients, we can also manage all the construction required for your project.

R.Viau Drafting is Ottawa's original ULC compliant Fire Shutter Consultant and Installer. We provide and install economic fire shutters at a economic price. We also offer the options of more eloquent and aesthetic fire shutters which do fluctuate in price. Wether you simply wish to improve your building's fire safety or are receiving work orders from the city - give us a call. Fire Shutter Consulting & Installation in Ottawa & Ontario R.Viau Drafting is Ottawa's original ULC compliant Fire Shutter Consultant and Installer. If you have seen a fire shutter in down town Ottawa - odds are we hav e installed it. We also covered most of Ontario and Quebec. Click here to visit our Fire Safety Website!

 R.Viau Drafting & Design has drafted / built second storey additions & homes expansions all over Ottawa. Second storey additions are significant projects that require careful planning and experienced specialists.   R.VIAU DRAFTING & DESIGN LTD. STOREY ADDITION PLANS OVER 35+ YEARS OF SERVICE Ottawa Storey Addition Plans At R. Viau Drafting & Design, we specialize in delivering precise and comprehensive storey addition plans that seamlessly blend new construction with your existing home. Whether you're looking to add a second or third level, our expert drafting services focus on maximizing space, enhancing functionality, and maintaining architectural harmony. From detailed structural layouts to electrical and plumbing coordination, our custom plans provide everything you need for a smooth permit process and flawless build. Trust us to help you expand your home’s footprint while elevating its style and value. Second storey additions are significant projects that require careful planning and experienced specialists. R.Viau Drafting & Design has drafted / built second storey additions & homes expansions all over Ottawa. Bill 23 in Ottawa Bill 23, officially known as the More Homes Built Faster Act, is a piece of provincial legislation passed in Ontario, Canada, in 2022. The purpose of the bill is to accelerate the construction of new homes in the province, with the goal of addressing Ontario's housing affordability crisis. Before Bill 23, property owners were only able to build two (2) units on their property. After Bill 23, property owners are now able to build three (3) units on their property. Planning your second storey addition Assess Structural Integrity Before moving forward, it's essential to ensure that your current home can handle the weight of an additional floor. Structural assessments done by our professionals are a critical first step. Set a Realistic Budget Adding a second storey can be expensive, so having a clear understanding of your budget is crucial. Costs can range from $200 to $400+ per square foot depending on design, materials, and location. Total: $200,000 - $500,000+ Design and Functionality Think about how you want to use the new space and how it will fit with your current home. The design will play a major role in both the aesthetic outcome and functionality of your new second storey. Determine Your Needs Consider Layout and Flow Maximize Natural Light Hire the Right Professionals A second-storey addition is a complex project that requires professional expertise. R.Viau Construction & Developments has over 80 years of combined experience with designing and building homes in Ottawa. Book us for a site visit! We'll follow up with a quote that will layout everything that you'll need in a transparent way. Our process Site Visit Book us for a site visit! We'll review your project's goals and guide you into the right direction. Drafting We'll prepare preliminary plans to begin, then prepare official permit plans once we're happy with a result. Permit Application Once we're set with all the plans, we'll prepare a permit application, submit it and deal with all of the city's comments. Construction To make it even more seamless for our clients, we can also manage all the construction required for your project. Building Additions Building Additions Play Video Share Whole Channel This Video Facebook Twitter Pinterest Tumblr Copy Link Link Copied Search videos Search video... Now Playing Roof Framing completed 00:04 Play Video Now Playing Sheeting of Roof 00:07 Play Video Now Playing Making of Roof Dormers 00:06 Play Video Here's some of our work!

R. Viau Drafting & Design provides expert multiplex plans in Ottawa with optimized layouts, zoning compliance, and permit-ready drawings for multi-unit builds. R.VIAU DRAFTING & DESIGN LTD. MULTIPLEX PLANS OVER 35+ YEARS OF SERVICE Duplex, Triplex and Fourplex Plans in Ottawa As Ottawa embraces gentle density and infill housing, multi-unit homes like duplexes, triplexes, and fourplexes have become a smart solution for maximizing property value and meeting growing housing demand. At R. Viau Drafting & Design , we specialize in designing clear, code-compliant multi-unit building plans tailored to fit urban lots while respecting zoning bylaws, lot coverage, and building height restrictions. Whether you're a homeowner, builder, or developer, our custom plans are optimized for permits, efficiency, and long-term livability - helping you transform your property into a high-performing, multi-family investment. We have built residential buildings in all of Ottawa and surrounding areas. We are experienced Robert, owner of R.Viau Drafting and Design, has 40 years experience with building development and a large number of other construction projects. Contact Us! Bill 23 in Ottawa Bill 23, officially known as the More Homes Built Faster Act, is a piece of provincial legislation passed in Ontario, Canada, in 2022. The purpose of the bill is to accelerate the construction of new homes in the province, with the goal of addressing Ontario's housing affordability crisis. Before Bill 23, property owners were only able to build two (2) units on their property. After Bill 23, property owners are now able to build three (3) units on their property. Permit Plans Process Site Analysis and Preliminary Design Conduct an analysis of the site to understand its topography, zoning requirements, and local infrastructure. Develop initial design concepts that meet these parameters. Create Detailed Drawings Develop the full set of drawings including site plans, floor plans, elevations, structural designs, and MEP layouts Permit Submittal Submit the plans to the city for review. If the project requires a variance, this will likely involve public hearings or consultation periods where neighbors or community members may voice concerns. Revise and Address Feedback The city may request revisions to the plans based on safety, environmental, or zoning concerns. We will adjust the plans as needed to address these feedbacks. Obtain Permits Once the plans are approved, obtain the necessary permits to begin construction. Contact Us!

Since 1982, R. Viau Drafting & Design has grown into a trusted family-run enterprise, expanding into Ottawa Fire Safety and R. Viau Construction & Development—offering expert design, fire protection, and construction services across Ottawa. Contact Us We’d love to hear from you! Whether you’re planning a new construction project, looking to renovate, or simply have questions about our services, the team at R. Viau Drafting & Design Ltd. is here to help. 613-804-6157 Let’s Build Something Great Together! We’d love to chat about your ideas and how we can help. contact@rviaudrafting.ca Let’s talk about your project! Send us a message - we’re here to help and excited to hear from you. Contact Form Name(Required) Email(Required) Subject(Required) Phone Describe your project(Required) How did you find us? File upload Upload File Submit R.Viau Drafting & Design Ltd. R. Viau Drafting & Design LTD. was first established in 1982, founded on a passion for precision, creativity, and functional design. What began as a small drafting service has since grown into one of Ottawa’s most trusted and respected design firms. Over the decades, the business has evolved while staying true to its original values of quality craftsmanship and client-focused service. Today, R. Viau Drafting & Design is proud to be a family-run business, carrying forward a legacy of excellence through generations. With deep roots in the community and a commitment to personalized service, we continue to bring a thoughtful, hands-on approach to every project we take on. R.Viau Construction & Developments At R. Viau Construction & Development , we believe in seeing a project through from the first draft to the final build. As the construction and development arm of R. Viau Drafting & Design , we are fully committed to bringing our designs to life with craftsmanship, precision, and attention to detail. Our hands-on approach ensures a seamless transition from concept to construction, maintaining the integrity of every plan we create. Deeply invested in Ottawa’s growth, we are actively involved in residential and commercial developments across the city, helping shape communities with quality-built spaces that stand the test of time. Ottawa Fire Safety Founded in 1985 by Robert Viau, Ottawa Fire Safety was built on a vision of providing reliable, high-quality fire protection services to the growing city of Ottawa. What started as a small, dedicated operation has grown into the city’s most prominent and trusted fire protection brand. With decades of experience and commitment to safety, we have earned a reputation for excellence in everything from fire retrofits and inspections to fire safety plans and more. Our close collaboration with the Ottawa Fire Department ensures we stay at the forefront of fire safety standards, continuing to protect our community with the same integrity and dedication that inspired our founding.

Visit our Fire Safety Website! www.Ottawafiresafety.ca Building Retrofits A thorough retrofit gives you a chance to audit your building’s energy performance. The retrofits you undertake can reduce your building’s operational costs – particularly if it is older – as well as help attract tenants and gain a market edge. Click here for our Fire Safety Website!

R. Viau Drafting & Design Ltd. has maintained fire safety plans for the majority of Ottawa since the 80s.  Our fire safety experts are well-versed and experienced in creating: evacuation plans, fire safety reports, fire safety plans, fire safety strategies, and building updates to current fire safety codes. We also perform building inspections. Fire Safety Plans R. Viau Drafting & Design Ltd. has maintained fire safety plans for the majority of Ottawa since the early 80s. Click here for our Fire Safety Website!

R. VIAU DRAFTING & DESIGN LTD. Secondary Dwelling Unit Costs TYPICAL COSTS AND ASSISTANCE Efficient way to clear your mortgage Additional / Secondary Dwelling Units (legal basement units / SDU's / ADU's) have become increasingly popular in Ottawa and Ontario for a very good reason. Converting a basement into a separate unit will allow you to settle your mortgage more efficiently and offer more crucial housing to the residents of Ottawa. With years of experience under our belt, we help all of our clients obtain legal additional / secondary units. Finishes and Appliances The appliances and finishes you choose in your kitchens, bathrooms, floors, etc have a huge impact on the cost of your new units. Code Requirements Requirements such as egress windows, concrete basement walk-outs and window wells can influence the total cost. What can influence the costs Typical General Costs Depending on the size of your unit and the amount of bedrooms, you can expect a general cost of $60,000 to $120,000. Wondering if your home is suitable for an SDU? Click here for our inspection page! New Financial Assistance by the Government Mortgage Reforms Canada Secondary Suite Loan Program Mortgage Reforms Today's mortgage reforms are designed to make it easier for homeowners to add secondary suites—such as basement apartments, in-law suites, and laneway homes—building on the federal government’s recent announcement of the most significant mortgage reforms in decades. These reforms are aimed at unlocking homeownership opportunities for Canadians of all generations. Starting December 15, 2024 , Canadians will be able to apply for reformed mortgages, resulting in lower monthly payments. Key changes include: 1. Raising the Insured Mortgage Cap: The $1 million price cap for insured mortgages will be increased to $1.5 million to reflect the current housing market and enable more Canadians to qualify for mortgages with a down payment of less than 20%. This cap, which has remained unchanged since 2012, will allow more Canadians to purchase homes within their financial reach. 2. Expanding 30-Year Mortgage Amortizations: The eligibility for 30-year mortgage amortizations will be extended to all first-time homebuyers and those purchasing new builds, reducing monthly payments and helping more Canadians afford homeownership. This expansion includes both new construction and condominiums. The move is designed to incentivize the building of more homes and address the ongoing housing shortage, in line with the Budget 2024 commitment, which also allows first-time homebuyers purchasing new builds to access 30-year amortizations starting August 1, 2024. These reforms aim to help more Canadians secure affordable homes while also encouraging the construction of additional / secondary dwelling units, which can provide much-needed rental options and support multi-generational living. Canada Secondary Suite Loan Program Ontario's Secondary Suite Incentive Program is an initiative designed to encourage the creation of secondary suites (also known as accessory apartments or in-law suites) within existing homes. The program is aimed at increasing the availability of affordable rental housing in the province by making it easier for homeowners to build or convert basements, garages, or other spaces into legal secondary units. "Through our Housing Accelerator Fund, we’ve already reformed zoning to make this possible, and today, we’re announcing homeowners will soon be able to access up to $40,000 in low-cost loans to make it easier add secondary suites." - The Honourable Chrystia Freeland, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Key Features of the program Eligibility Criterias Contact Us! Financial Incentives Under the program, homeowners will have access up to $40,000 in low-interest loans Legalizing Existing Units One of the key goals of the program is to make it easier for homeowners to legalize existing secondary suites that may not be up to current building codes or zoning laws. New Zoning Municipalities may offer some flexibility in their zoning and building code requirements to make it easier for homeowners to add secondary suites. Property Ownership: The homeowner must own the property where the secondary suite will be built or legalized. Suitability of the Property The property must be suitable for a secondary suite, meaning there must be adequate space for the suite and the unit must comply with local zoning laws and building codes. Construction Requirements The program typically supports renovations or construction that result in a safe and legal unit. This includes ensuring proper egress (exit in case of fire), ventilation, and fire safety measures.

R.Viau Drafting & Design has designed and built a multitude of garages for the community of Ottawa since 1985.​​​​​ We have experience with car garages of all kinds (attached / detached, single / double), car-ports, storage garages, sheds, and more. A garage isn't just a place to park a car—it's a multifunctional space that adds convenience, security, and value to everyday life. R.VIAU DRAFTING & DESIGN LTD. CUSTOM GARAGES OVER 35+ YEARS OF SERVICE Garage Plans in Ottawa R.Viau Drafting & Design has designed and built a multitude of garages for the community of Ottawa since 1985. We have experience with car garages of all kinds (attached / detached, single / double), car-ports, storage garages, sheds, and more. A garage isn't just a place to park a car—it's a multifunctional space that adds convenience, security, and value to everyday life. Planning your garage Purpose A garage isn't just about parking - it's about creating a space that fits the needs and lifestyle of the homeowner. Some people even convert part of their garage into additional living space, such as a home gym, office, or entertainment area. Size With a quick review, we'll be able to determine what is and what isn't permitted on your lot. Usual rule of thumb is to have a 4' offset from your property line. Design Let us know what aesthetic you wish to accomplish with your finishes such as: the siding, the roof slope, the windows, the garage door, etc. Estimated Costs A single car garage can range from $50,000 - $100,000 A two car garage can range from $90,000 - $140,000 Our process Site Visit Book us for a site visit! We'll review your project's goals and guide you into the right direction. Drafting We'll prepare preliminary plans to begin, then prepare official permit plans once we're happy with a result. Permit Application Once we're set with all the plans, we'll prepare a permit application, submit it and deal with all of the city's comments. Construction To make it even more seamless for our clients, we can also manage all the construction required for your project. Different purposes, different aesthetics Garages come in various styles, each offering different functional and aesthetic advantages depending on the homeowner's needs, the architectural style of the home, and personal preferences. Attached garages Carports Detached garages Sheds

R. Viau Drafting & Design offers tenant fit-up plans in Ottawa with custom layouts, permit-ready drawings, and expert design for commercial spaces of all sizes. R.VIAU DRAFTING & DESIGN LTD. TENANT FIT-UP PLANS OVER 35+ YEARS OF SERVICE Tenant Fit-up plans in Ottawa The team at R.Viau Drafting & Design has helped a multitude of businesses in Ottawa move into leased spaces designed to suit their work. Tenant fit-up plans are created to outline how a commercial or retail space will be customized or renovated to meet the specific needs of a new tenant. These plans are a critical part of the process when a business moves into a leased or rented space and requires modifications to the interior layout, utilities, or design to suit its operations. Customization These plans allow the tenant to customize the space to fit their specific operational requirements, creating a functional environment that supports their business activities. Building Code Compliance Fit-up plans ensure that all changes to the space comply with local building codes and safety regulations. For example, the plans may specify the number of exit doors required based on occupancy load or ensure the layout adheres to fire code requirements. Landlord / Building Owner Approval Fit-up plans are often required by the landlord or building owner before they approve the tenant’s request for changes. They ensure that the alterations won’t damage the building or violate lease agreements and that the building’s infrastructure can support the new layout. Cost Estimation Tenant fit-up plans provide an accurate cost estimate for construction and renovation work. This helps tenants plan their budgets and allows contractors to give quotes for the work based on the detailed plans. Why Are Tenant Fit-Up Plans Important ? Tenant Requirements The tenant specifies their functional needs, aesthetic preferences, and any specialized requirements (equipment, technology, safety systems). Preliminary Plans Our certified designer creates an initial floor plan and layout that incorporates the tenant’s needs and ensures compliance with building codes. Permit Plans & Permit Application Once the design is approved, detailed fit-up plans are created, incorporating all changes, infrastructure upgrades, and compliance requirements. We'll submit for permit and handle all of the city's comments for you! Construction To make things as seamless as it can be for our clients, we also can do all of the construction and deal with all the inspections. Our Typical Process

With local Ottawa architects, engineers and designers by our side, the firm can put together: Construction drawings, Floor plans​ Site Plans Elevations Sections Details Grading plans Workshop drawings, 3D models   Digital renders / animation​​ ​ R.VIAU DRAFTING & DESIGN LTD. ARCHITECTURAL DRAFTING OVER 35+ YEARS OF SERVICE Constructions Plans, Engineering Drawings, 3D Modelling, Digital Rendering in Ottawa Planning a residential renovation or conversion? Need BCIN approved building permit sets? We employ architects, designers and engineers who are experts at providing these and other design services. We also work on small commercial projects. We have been serving Ottawa & Ontario with drafting & design services for decades. First things first We offer consulting to figure out what you'll need for the project and what to expect from the city. We also offer zoning reviews - this crucial step confirms your project's limitations before any other drawings / work gets done. Our design services Construction drawings, Floor plans Site Plans Elevations Sections Details Grading plans Workshop drawings, 3D models Digital renders / animation

R. Viau Drafting & Design creates custom kitchen renovation plans in Ottawa—expert layouts, detailed drawings, and permit-ready designs tailored to your home. R.VIAU DRAFTING & DESIGN LTD. KITCHEN RENOVATION PLANS PLAN THE KITCHEN YOU'VE ALWAYS WANTED Kitchen Renovation plans in Ottawa At R. Viau Drafting & Design , we specialize in creating high-quality, designer-level kitchen renovation plans that blend style, functionality, and precision. Whether you're dreaming of a modern open-concept kitchen, a timeless gourmet layout, or a space optimized for family living, our custom drafting services bring your vision to life - down to the last detail. From smart storage solutions and appliance layouts to code-compliant electrical and plumbing schematics, we deliver clear, build-ready plans tailored to your lifestyle and aesthetic. Let’s design a kitchen that not only looks stunning but works beautifully for years to come. What We Offer Existing Layout & Demolition Plans We begin by drafting a precise representation of your current kitchen. This includes wall locations, windows, doors, structural elements, existing appliances, and service lines. Our demolition plan highlights what will be removed or altered to make way for the new design - minimizing guesswork and streamlining the transition. Proposed Floor Plans Your new kitchen layout is created based on your vision and needs. We consider workflow efficiency the “kitchen triangle”, space utilization, and movement patterns. Whether you're after a sleek galley, expansive island design, or open-concept layout, we maximize both beauty and practicality. Cabinetry & Storage Detailing We draft cabinetry elevations and floor plans that reflect custom or semi-custom designs. This includes: Exact cabinet dimensions and placements Drawer and shelf configurations Pantry design Appliance garages, pull-outs, and vertical storage features These details help you visualize your kitchen’s functionality and help cabinet makers quote and build accurately. Lighting & Electrical Plans Lighting makes or breaks a kitchen’s usability and ambiance. We provide layered lighting layouts that include: Task lighting (under-cabinet) Ambient and recessed lighting Feature pendants or chandeliers Electrical outlets, switches, and smart controls All placements are drawn to scale with code references where applicable. When do you typically need a permit? Structural Changes Any modifications to load-bearing walls, beams, or foundations. Major Plumbing / HVAC changes Installing or significantly altering electrical systems, plumbing, or HVAC systems. Our process Site Visit Book us for a site visit! We'll review your project's goals and guide you into the right direction. Drafting We'll prepare preliminary plans to begin, then prepare official permit plans once we're happy with a result. Permit Application Once we're set with all the plans, we'll prepare a permit application, submit it and deal with all of the city's comments. Construction To make it even more seamless for our clients, we can also do all the construction required for your project.