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
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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.
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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.
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Versatile Functionality: Common uses include generating rental income, housing extended family, providing space for remote work, or serving as private guest accommodations.
