R. Viau Drafting & Design provides egress window plans in Ottawa with code-compliant designs, detailed drawings, and fast permit-ready documentation. R.VIAU DRAFTING & DESIGN LTD. EGRESS WINDOW PERMIT PLANS OVER 35+ YEARS OF SERVICE Egress Windows Permit Plans & Installation in Ottawa R.Viau Drafting & Design specializes in creating precise, code-compliant egress window plans tailored for Ottawa homes. Whether you’re upgrading your basement for safety, adding a secondary dwelling unit, or enhancing natural light and ventilation, our expert team ensures your egress windows meet all code and Ottawa's zoning by-laws. We provide detailed drawings that simplify the permit process and support safe, functional designs that protect your family and add value to your property. What is an egress window? Egress windows serve as essential emergency exits, offering an alternate way to leave a building safely during situations like fires. These windows are particularly crucial in spaces such as finished basements or bedrooms, where quick evacuation routes are necessary for occupant safety. When is an egress window required? When constructing or remodeling a basement, installing an emergency exit window is mandatory, particularly if the area will serve as a bedroom or additional living unit. This feature is essential to guarantee a safe escape route for residents during emergencies such as fires. Basements When converting a basement into usable living areas like bedrooms, recreational rooms, or offices, local building regulations typically mandate the installation of emergency exit windows. Since basement windows are often positioned below ground level and can be difficult to reach, having a designated escape window is vital to ensure a safe exit in emergencies such as fires. Second Stories or higher In buildings with multiple levels, emergency exit windows may be necessary for upper-floor rooms when no other safe means of evacuation exists, particularly in the absence of external fire escapes or balcony access. Our Drafting Services Initial Consultation & Site Evaluation Discuss client goals, needs, and intended use (e.g. rental unit, private access) Evaluate the existing structure and basement layout Review site conditions including grading, drainage, and access points Detailed Drafting & Construction Plans Produce professional, permit-ready drawings including: Foundation modifications Stair and landing design Door placement and framing details Drainage and waterproofing solutions Site grading and elevation plans Permit Application Support Prepare and submit all required documents for municipal approval Respond to city feedback and provide revisions as needed Communicate with inspectors and planning departments on the client’s behalf Construction Guidance & Support (Optional) Assist clients or contractors with interpreting plans during construction Offer site visit services for plan verification and issue resolution

R.Viau Drafting & Design has effectively provided Ottawa with Building Code Reviews for all kinds of projects for the last 35 years. We'll help identify your project's limitations whenever you are making changes to a building or structure that could affect its safety, structural integrity, accessibility, or other elements regulated by building codes. ​​ Building Code Reviews in Ottawa R.Viau Drafting & Design has effectively provided Ottawa with Building Code Reviews for all kinds of projects for the last 35 years. We'll help identify your project's limitations whenever you are making changes to a building or structure that could affect its safety, structural integrity, accessibility, or other elements regulated by building codes. When is a Building Code Review essential ? New construction Any new building, whether residential, commercial, industrial, or institutional, must undergo a building code review to ensure it complies with all applicable codes. Major Alterations If you are making major changes to the layout of your home or building, a Building Code Review will identify the requirements necessary to be compliant. Adding units Whether you're adding a room or a second storey, any addition to an existing building needs to comply with the building code. This includes ensuring that the addition is structurally sound, has appropriate means of egress and complies with fire safety standards. Accessibility Modifications If you need modifications done to your building to provide more accessibility such as adding ramps, providing wider door ways or adjusting bathrooms, a Building Code Review will reveal all your requirements. Our process Site Visit Book us for a site visit! We'll visit the site, review your project's goals and give you a general run down of our expectations with your project. Review & Report We'll attentively review every Building Code aspect that your project will touch and afterwards will prepare a report on all your project requirements. Calculated Decision Once you're equipped with this knowledge, you effectively know what you're up against. We can assist you into moving forward with plans or you can ultimately decide to not pursue this project!

Discover architecturally designed sunrooms in Ottawa by R.Viau Drafting & Design - blending innovative design, structural integrity, and seamless integration with your home. R.VIAU DRAFTING & DESIGN LTD. LUXURY SUNROOMS OVER 35+ YEARS OF SERVICE Sunroom plans in Ottawa A sunroom is more than just an additional space - it’s a bright, inviting retreat that blends indoor comfort with the beauty of the outdoors. At R. Viau Drafting & Design , our designer sunroom plans are crafted with precision and elegance, tailored to complement your home’s architecture while maximizing natural light, comfort, and usability year-round. Our team has helped hundreds of clients with custom sunroom additions in Ottawa. From simple 3 season unheated sunrooms to 4 season sunrooms complete with electrical and heating. Key Elements of Our Designer Sunroom Plans Architectural Harmony & Customization We design sunrooms to seamlessly integrate with your home’s existing style - whether classic, modern, farmhouse, or transitional. Our plans carefully consider rooflines, window styles, siding, and materials to ensure the sunroom feels like a natural extension, not an afterthought. Maximizing Natural Light & Views Sunrooms thrive on abundant natural light. Our plans specify the ideal combination of floor-to-ceiling windows, skylights, and glass doors that capture sunlight and frame outdoor views without compromising privacy or energy efficiency. Structural Integrity & Climate Control We engineer sunroom structures with durable framing and insulated glazing systems designed for your climate zone - whether it means maximizing heat retention in winter or reducing solar gain in summer. Optional features include operable windows, ceiling fans, and integration with HVAC for all-season comfort. Functional Layout & Furnishing Zones Whether you envision a cozy reading nook, dining area, or indoor garden, our plans provide clear spatial organization that enhances flow and usability. Built-in seating, shelving, and planters can be integrated to create custom, multi-functional spaces. Sunrooms enhance a home’s livability and aesthetic appeal, providing a unique blend of indoor and outdoor experiences. 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 & Design provides secondary unit plans in Ottawa with customized, bylaw-compliant designs and permit-ready drawings for legal rental suites. R.VIAU DRAFTING & DESIGN LTD. SECONDARY DWELLING PERMIT PLANS OVER 35+ YEARS OF SERVICE Secondary Dwelling Units / Basement Apartment Plans in Ottawa At R. Viau Drafting & Design, we specialize in designing Secondary Dwelling Units (SDUs) that add value, flexibility, and functionality to your property. Whether you're looking to create a legal basement apartment, garden suite, or coach house, we provide expert guidance and tailored design solutions to meet local zoning and building code requirements in Ottawa and surrounding areas. With over 35 years of experience, our team ensures that every SDU project is thoughtfully planned, efficiently executed, and seamlessly integrated into your existing property. What is a Secondary Dwelling Unit? In Ottawa, homeowners now have the flexibility to add up to three residential units on a single property, thanks to recent legislative changes under Bill 23. Previously, zoning rules allowed for only two. These additional living spaces (often referred to as accessory or secondary units) are fully independent dwellings that can either be built as standalone structures like backyard suites or laneway homes, or created by repurposing existing areas such as basements, garages, or attics. Typically smaller than the main residence, they offer practical solutions for expanding housing availability in urban neighborhoods. Key Characteristics Independent Living: Secondary units are fully equipped with essential amenities such as a private kitchen, bathroom, and living area - allowing for complete day-to-day functionality. On-Site Placement: These dwellings are situated on the same parcel of land as the main home and can be either integrated into the primary structure or built as a separate building. Versatile Functionality: Common uses include generating rental income, housing extended family, providing space for remote work, or serving as private guest accommodations. Advantages of Secondary Units Additional income Leasing an additional living space can generate consistent passive earnings. Space for family These spaces offer comfortable accommodations for elderly parents, grown children, or other family members, supporting multi-generational households. Increased property value Incorporating an ADU or SDU can increase your property’s worth by providing additional living areas. Affordable housing Contribute to easing housing shortages by expanding the rental options within a community. Our Drafting Services Site Evaluation & Feasibility Study Analyze the lot size, setbacks, and access points Check compliance with zoning bylaws, OBC, and fire code. Identify best location for SDU (basement, garage, addition, or detached structure) Detailed Drafting & Architectural Plans Produce complete, permit-ready construction drawings including: Floor plans Elevations and sections Site and grading plans (if applicable) Fire separation and egress requirements HVAC, plumbing, and electrical layout coordination Permit Application Support Prepare and organize all documentation for municipal permit submission Submit plans and respond to comments or revision requests from city officials Coordinate with other professionals (engineers, surveyors) if needed for approval Optional Construction Support Provide design clarification during construction Recommend trusted contractors if requested Offer site visit services to verify alignment with approved plans

We have decades of experience developing projects here in Ottawa & Ontario from start to finish. Our portfolio includes: Commercial spaces Commercial tenant fit ups Custom family homes Custom low to mid rise residential complexes Complete building retrofits Project Management Our keys to great projects & great success Project Efficiency: Streamlining the construction process is key We coordinate different aspects of the project (scheduling, resource allocation, etc.) This potentially reduces project duration Quality control: We always make sure the work meets quality standards and building codes Oversee subcontractors to maintain consistent quality Address issues promptly to maintain high standards Communication: Since we are a central point of contact for all stakeholders, our goal is to f acilitate clear communication between owners, designers, and contractors Provide regular project updates and reports Cost Management: We help control and potentially reduce overall project costs Manage budget effectively, identifying potential savings Prevent costly mistakes and delays Risk Mitigation: Identifying potential risks early in the project is something that is sadly often ignored We develop strategies to manage and minimize risks and handle unexpected issues so that unnecessary hiccups don't happen. Expertise: Our expertise allows us to navigate complex aspects of our projects more effectively and safely. Our expertise was learned through decades of experience and of surrounding ourselves with the best. We have decades of experience developing projects here in Ottawa & Ontario from start to finish. Our portfolio includes: Commercial spaces Commercial tenant fit ups Custom family homes Custom low to mid rise residential complexes Complete building retrofits Contact Us!

R. Viau Drafting & Design offers secondary unit inspections in Ottawa, ensuring code compliance and providing expert guidance for legal and safe rental conversions. R.VIAU DRAFTING & DESIGN LTD. SDU Feasibility Inspections UNCOVER HIDDEN ISSUES EARLY Can I add a secondary suite to my home? Yes, in many cities / municipalities, you can add a secondary unit—also known as an in-law suite, basement apartment, or accessory dwelling unit (ADU)—but it must meet specific zoning and building code requirements. At R. Viau Drafting & Design , we help homeowners navigate the process with professionally prepared SDU reports. What is an SDU inspection? A SDU feasibility inspection is an early-stage evaluation that helps a homeowner (or possible buyers) determine whether their property is suitable for building a Secondary Dwelling Unit (SDU) - like a basement suite, garden suite, or laneway home. Our SDU inspections give clear insights into zoning, code compliance and fire safety - so you can make confident informed decisions and avoid costly surprised down the road. Circumstances where SDU inspections are beneficial: Pre-purchase Inspections Getting an SDU inspection before buying a home is a smart move if you're planning to add a rental unit or multi-generational space. You don’t want to buy a house thinking you can add a suite, only to find out after closing that it’s not allowed—or would cost $50k more than you expected. This inspection helps avoid that mistake. Before Committing to Permit Plans SDU inspections are a great tool to use as they highlight the upgrades that are needed to meet building and zoning codes - before spending money on plans or permits. When Legalizing an Existing Unpermitted Suite Many homeowners inherit or buy properties with unpermitted basement or garage suites. If they want to bring them up to code (to rent legally, refinance, or sell), an SDU inspection outlines what’s missing and what needs to be fixed. As a Real Estate Investor or Developer If your goal is to rent out the unit, sell for profit, or create cash flow, an SDU inspection gives you clarity on whether the units are fully legal. The benefits of our secondary unit inspection Our SDU inspections, reports and cost analysis will provide you with a complete overview of all deficiencies present in the home. Our detailed reports empowers you to make informed decisions, avoid costly surprises and move forward with confidence - whether you're buying a home or looking to renovate your existing home. Book an inspection! We reply within the day. Name(Required) Email(Required) Describe Your Project(Required) Phone Type of Inspection Project Address Submit Site Visit Once booked for an inspection, we will meet on site and analyze the property together. Inspections can be done quickly - typically within 30 minutes to an hour depending on the building and what's needed. Report We'll prepare a written report with the building's deficiencies & a cost analysis (if requested) for all of the building's requirements. Turn-around time Ottawa Secondary Dwellings will have your complete report done within 1-2 business days. Inspection Process

Planning a residential renovation or conversion? Need architecturally approved building permit sets? A zoning review confirms your project's limitations before any other drawings / work get's done. We employ architects who are experts at providing these and other design services. They also work on small commercial projects.  3D Rendering Planning a residential renovation or conversion? Need architecturally approved building permit sets? A zoning review confirms your project's limitations before any other drawings / work get's done. We employ architects who are experts at providing these and other design services. They also work on small commercial projects. Contact us! Email Subject Your message Send Thanks for submitting!

Discover expert duplex, triplex, and fourplex development services in Ottawa. Our custom designs maximize space, efficiency, and investment potential, ensuring compliance with local building codes and zoning laws. Whether you're looking for multi-unit family homes or profitable rental properties, we create tailored solutions for your needs. R.VIAU DRAFTING & DESIGN LTD. MULTIPLEX DEVELOPMENT OVER 35+ YEARS OF SERVICE Duplex, Triplex and Fourplex Construction in Ottawa Designing and building your own investment can be a daunting task... but it doesn't have to be. R. Viau Drafting is your one stop shop: we handle the drafting & designing, the permits and ultimately construction. We have built residential buildings in all of Ottawa and surrounding areas. Why build with us? Experience Robert, owner of R.Viau Drafting and Design, has 40 years experience with building development and a large number of other construction projects. Our team has pride in our results. We have used the same 90% of our trades for the last decades. We value and trust the same trades since they consistently create great results and ultimately respect our clients. Building a residential multiplex is a complex endeavor that involves managing a wide array of challenges, from securing funding and finding the right location to navigating regulatory hurdles and creating functional, sustainable living spaces. The project demands careful planning, efficient project management, and ongoing attention to the needs of residents and the surrounding community. 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. What does it take to build a multiplex? Market Research Before embarking on a project, it's crucial to understand the demand for residential housing in the area. Conduct market research to identify the target demographic (e.g., luxury, affordable, or mixed-income housing), assess competition, and determine rental/sale price points. Financial Feasibility This includes assessing the project’s potential profitability by estimating construction costs, expected rents or sales prices, and overall return on investment (ROI). You'll need detailed financial projections to secure financing. Site Selection Identifying the right location is critical. The plot of land should be in an area with good infrastructure, public transport links, and access to amenities (e.g., schools, shopping centers, healthcare). The location also needs to be zoned for multi-family residential development. Initial Planning and Feasibility Study Project Budgeting Estimating the total cost of land, design, permits, construction, utilities, marketing, and post-construction operations is essential for developing a solid budget. Zoning Approval The land needs to be zoned for multi-family residential use. If it is not, you may need to apply for a rezoning request or variance through the local planning commission or municipal government. Building Permits You'll need to secure permits from local authorities for construction, including approvals for site preparation, excavation, electrical, plumbing, and safety features. This process involves submitting detailed plans to the local government for review and approval. Financing, Zoning and Permits Architectural The design phase involves working with architects and designers to create blueprints that meet both your vision and the Ontario Building Code. Key considerations include: the layout of residential units, the number of floors, common areas (e.g., elevators, hallways, lounges), parking spaces, and amenities (e.g., gym, rooftop garden). Engineering and Structural Structural engineers will need to ensure that the building is safe, compliant with local building codes Design and Architecture Construction Site Inspection Before construction can begin, the site must be cleared and prepped, which may involve demolition of existing structures, excavation for foundations, and grading of the land. Foundation and Structure The foundation is the first phase of actual construction. For a multi-story building, this could include deep foundations such as pilings or concrete footings. Once the foundation is in place, the structural frame (beams, columns, and floors) will be built, followed by walls and ultimately the roofs. Utilities and Infratstructure Installing necessary utilities (water, electricity, sewage, gas) and ensuring the infrastructure (like roads, drainage systems, and waste disposal) is in place is a major aspect of construction. The building's plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and fire protection systems are also integrated at this stage. Exterior and Interior Finishing Once the structure is complete, the next phase involves adding exterior elements like roofing, windows, and cladding (brick, wood, or other materials). Inside, drywall, flooring, cabinetry, and painting are done to prepare the units for occupancy. Code Compliant Inspections Local building inspectors will conduct thorough checks to ensure that the construction meets all safety, electrical, plumbing, and structural codes. These inspections often happen at different stages of construction (foundation, framing, final). Final Walkthrough After construction is complete, a final walkthrough is performed to ensure everything is finished to spec. Any issues identified during this inspection need to be addressed before residents can move in. Quality Control and Inspection Contact Us!

R. Viau Drafting & Design creates custom coach house plans in Ottawa with bylaw-compliant designs, detailed drawings, and permit-ready documentation. R.VIAU DRAFTING & DESIGN LTD. COACH HOUSE PLANS OVER 35+ YEARS OF SERVICE Coach House Permit Plans in Ottawa R.Viau Drafting & Design Ltd. specializes in creating detailed and compliant coach house permit plans tailored to meet municipal regulations and client needs. Whether you're planning to build a secondary dwelling for rental income, family use, or as a guest suite, we delivers precise architectural drawings and documentation to streamline the approval process. What is a Coach House? In Ottawa and throughout Ontario, there’s growing interest in small, self-contained residences built on the same lot as a main house. Commonly referred to as coach houses or accessory units, these separate dwellings offer a practical way to create additional living space. Whether used to generate rental income, house family members, or accommodate guests, they present a versatile and increasingly sought-after housing option. Increased Property Value An expertly crafted coach house can significantly enhance your property's market appeal. Many prospective purchasers find added value in a home that includes additional living quarters, particularly when those spaces offer opportunities for rental income or versatile use. Additional Income Leasing a secondary dwelling on your property (such as a coach house) offers an effective means of earning extra income with minimal daily effort. Whether you opt for extended rentals, short-term stays, or platforms like Airbnb, it can serve as a steady financial boost. Space for Guests or Family Coach houses provide an ideal setup for families looking to live near one another while maintaining personal space. They allow different generations such as aging parents or grown children to have their own private residence on the same property. This leads to supporting close-knit yet independent living arrangements. Perks of building a Coach House Our Drafting Services Site Analysis & Feasibility Study Evaluating lot size, shape, and topography Checking municipal regulations and zoning bylaws for coach houses Identifying potential design challenges and opportunities Detailed Architectural Drawings Producing comprehensive blueprints for construction Including floor plans, elevations, sections, and site plans Ensuring compliance with the OBC and local bylaws Permit Application Support Preparing all necessary documentation for city approvals Coordinate with inspectors to facilitate permit acquisition Construction Support & Project Management Providing oversight during the building process Coordinating with contractors and suppliers Conducting site visits to ensure design adherence Fire Safety Experts Our team collaborates closely with qualified Fire Inspectors and BCIN-accredited designers, ensuring every project meets fire safety standards and regulatory requirements, with support from trusted Ottawa-based fire safety professionals . Drafting Experts We have a team of BCIN designers, architects and engineers making sure that everything is done right and up to code. Zoning Experts With hundreds of zoning reviews done over the last 40 years, we have great knowledge of the obstacles regarding coach houses. With a zoning review, we can highlight the problem areas before you get any work started. Construction Experts Our team at R.Viau Construction & Developments also provides a combined 80 years of construction knowledge and expertise. We have experience with many additional / secondary units, new builds and so much more. Our Team

R. VIAU DRAFTING & DESIGN LTD. Coach House Costs TYPICAL COSTS AND ASSISTANCE Coach House Costs Coach Houses (lane way houses, secondary suites, mini homes) have seen a boom in Ottawa and Ontario in the last few years (partly due to Bill 23). They provide a variety of benefits, including increasing property value, creating additional income opportunities, enhancing family living arrangements, and supporting urban sustainability. What can influence the costs Size and Finishes The size of your coach house / mini home and it's finishes can greatly impact the overall cost. Appliances and Materials The appliances and finishes you choose in your kitchens, bathrooms, floors, etc have a huge impact on the cost of your new units. Services Rewiring hydro, new septic systems and new water wells can be costly. Variance Applications A variance may be required for your project - these can be complicated and/or costly! We provide zoning reviews which would identify if your project needs a variance before we start any work. Typical General Costs Depending on the many variables and the amount of bedrooms, you can expect a general cost of $150,000 to $500,000. Contact Us! 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 effectively provided Ottawa with zoning reviews for all kinds of projects for the last 35 years. Planning a new addition, an extension or garage? A zoning review confirms your project's limitations before any other drawings or work get's done.​ Zoning Reviews in Ottawa R.Viau Drafting & Design has passionately provided zoning reviews for a multitude of projects in Ottawa and Ontario. Planning a new addition, an extension or garage? A zoning review confirms your project's limitations before any other drawings or work get's done. When is a zoning review essential ? New construction Whether you're constructing a new home, office building, or any other type of structure, a zoning review is required to ensure the proposed development is permitted in the area New additions or extensions If you plan to add extra rooms, build a garage, add a second storey, or extend the footprint of an existing structure, a zoning review ensures that the proposed expansion doesn't violate zoning bylaws. Change of use If you're changing how a property is used such as: converting a residential home into a rental unit, or turning an agricultural building into a residential dwelling), A zoning review is necessary to ensure that the new use is permitted in the zoning district. Dividing existing lots When you plan to subdivide a property (for example, dividing a large residential lot into smaller lots), the zoning review ensures the subdivision meets minimum zoning bylaw requirements. When is a zoning review NOT essential ? Minor interior renovations Small changes to the interior of a home or business (e.g., painting, replacing flooring) that do not affect the building's exterior typically do not require a zoning review. Repairs or maintenance General repairs or upgrades such as roof repair, window replacement or anything that doesn't change the structure of the building generally doesn't' require zoning approval. Permitted uses If you're building or developing a property in a zone where your intended use is already permitted by the zoning bylaw, and the proposed project complies with all zoning standards, a zoning review may not be necessary. Our process Site Visit Book us for a site visit! We'll visit the site, review your project's goals and give you a general run down of our expectations with your project. What we'll need from you A survey plan is required to do any legitimate zoning review. Review & Report With the survey plan, we'll accurately review every zoning aspect that your project will touch and afterwards will prepare a report on all your project requirements. Calculated Decision Once you're equipped with this knowledge, you effectively know what you're up against. We can assist you into moving forward with plans or you can ultimately decide to not pursue this project!

R. Viau Drafting & Design creates custom home plans in Ottawa with tailored layouts, detailed drawings, and permit-ready designs to match your vision and needs. R.VIAU DRAFTING & DESIGN LTD. CUSTOM HOME PLANS OVER 35+ YEARS OF SERVICE Custom Home Plans in Ottawa At R.Viau Drafting & Design , we transform your ideas into precise, build-ready construction plans that lay the foundation for your dream home. With a focus on creativity, technical accuracy, and personalized service, we work with you to design a home that’s truly one-of-a-kind. Whether you have a clear concept or need help developing your vision, our experienced team provides expert guidance and tailored drafting solutions. From concept to final plans, we ensure every detail supports your lifestyle, reflects your personality, and prepares you for a seamless construction process. We have built residential buildings in Ottawa and surrounding areas. Custom Home Guide People choose to build custom homes for a variety of reasons. Designing and building your own offers you level of personalization and flexibility that is not typically available with standard pre-built homes. Zoning review Aesthetic Goal Design Purpose Costs Zoning Review The size of your build depends entirely on your lot size and your zoning. With a zoning review, we can get a clear cut idea of what obstacles we might have to face. Property Setbacks Setbacks refer to the required minimum distance between a building or structure and the property line or other boundaries, as dictated by local zoning laws or municipal building codes. Height Restrictions Zoning height regulations can vary based on several factors, including the zoning district, the type of property, and the specific characteristics of the location. Use of the Property Permitted Uses are the activities or developments that are allowed by right within a particular zoning district. These uses do not require a special permit or approval beyond basic compliance with the zoning code. If met with obstacles, we can request a variance (a special exception) from the zoning requirements. Aesthetic Goals Let us know what type of architectural style you wish to pursue. Traditional Types: Colonial, Cape Cod, Farmhouse Typically these architectural styles offer: symmetrical facades, steeply pitched roofs, dormer windows, brick or wood siding, gable or hipped roofs. these homes typically feature a rectangular shape, often with a central front door and evenly spaced windows. Modern Styles: Mid-century Modern, International Style, Contemporary Typically these homes have: Clean lines, flat roofs or low-pitched gables, large windows, open floor plans, integration with nature. emphasis on sustainability, open spaces, and natural light. This style is characterized by an emphasis on simplicity, function, and integration with the landscape. Revival Styles: Victoria, Tudor Revival, Neo classical Typically, these styles offer: Decorative trim, asymmetrical design, steeply pitched roofs, bay windows, elaborate cornices, and intricate detailing. Design Purpose The first and most crucial step in designing any house is to understand the purpose of the design. What are the primary goals and needs of the household? Family Size and Lifestyle Are you designing for a small family, a large family, or an individual? Do you have pets? Is there a need for guest rooms, home offices, or multi-generational spaces? Type of House Will the house be a family home, a vacation home, a retirement home, a rental property, or a home office? Each type will have different requirements. Future flexibility While designing for today, it’s wise to think about future flexibility and growth. If you anticipate future changes, such as growing your family or working from home more, plan for: Room for Expansion Flexible Spaces Technology Infrastructure: Custom Home Costs Lastly and ultimately it all comes down to the budget. A custom home can vary widely depending on factors like location, size, design complexity, quality of materials, and additional features. However, a general breakdown can help provide a clearer understanding of what to expect when planning a budget for a custom-built home. Location One of the most significant variables is the cost of land. In more expensive urban areas, land can be the largest single expense, while in rural areas, it may be significantly less. Size of Home The size of your home, measured in square footage (sq ft), is a major factor in determining the overall cost. The larger the home, the more expensive it will be to build due to increased materials, labor, and systems (HVAC, plumbing, electrical). Design and Complexity The more personalized the design (non-standard layouts, unusual features), the higher the cost. Complex designs with architectural details such as vaulted ceilings, custom windows, and advanced framing can add up significantly. Materials High-end finishes, such as custom cabinetry, premium flooring (hardwood, marble), and luxury bathroom fixtures, can increase the budget substantially.