Rental suite additions are the fastest-growing renovation category in the GTA. This thread covers everything from basement apartments to garden suites in 2026.
Basement Apartment Conversion
$60,000-$120,000 for a legal secondary unit. Requirements: separate entrance, 1.95m+ ceiling height, egress windows, ESA electrical, plumbing permit, smoke/CO alarms. Rental income: $1,500-$2,200/month in most GTA suburbs. 6-10 year payback at current rents.
Second Unit (In-Law Suite)
$40,000-$90,000 depending on scope. Ontario now permits one Additional Residential Unit (ARU) as-of-right in all GTA municipalities. Must meet Ontario Building Code habitability standards.
Garden Suite (Detached)
$180,000-$350,000 on qualifying lots. Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton legalized garden suites (2022-2023). Rental income: $2,200-$3,800/month. 10-12 year payback. Best for larger lots with lane or rear access.
LF Builders builds legal secondary suites across the GTA: https://lfbuilders.ca
Share your rental suite project experience at https://home.renovation.reviews