A residential unit, other than the
primary residential unit, located within the
main structure. Currently, no universally
accepted definition exists regarding such
units and descriptions will vary based on
local zoning by-laws. Safety issues are
usually a major concern from a municipal
perspective. Consequently, fire and building
codes normally address regulations
concerning the construction and occupation
of accessory residential units in houses.
Electrical inspections are also typically
required
The term in-law suite is used in various
parts of Canada to denote the occupancy of
an accessory apartment by a direct relative.
In-law suites are sometimes exempted under
selected municipal regulations (e.g.,
zoning), given the family relationship, but
procedures vary by province. Regardless,
such suites must normally comply with health
and safety requirements.
Concerns regarding accessory units
relate to egress (means of exit), fire
separation and related requirements, and
adherence to specified legislation.
Example of Accessory Apartment
Owner Smith received approval from the
local municipality to add a second
residential unit within his single-family
detached home. The municipality has various
requirements concerning the construction of
the unit. In particular, Smith must comply
with all items as set out in the applicable
fire code concerning smoke alarms, fire
separation between dwelling units, means of
escape, and electrical wiring. Smith is
visited by representatives of the electrical
utility and the fire department. Following
the fire department inspection, Smith is
advised that he must improve the fire
separations between the two units within a
specified time period.
Accessory
Building
A building, other than the main
structure, that is best described as an
outbuilding, e.g., garage, pump house,
poolside heater building, or utility shed .
No precise or uniform guidelines exist
regarding what constitutes an accessory
building. As a general rule, any significant
outside structure would be included.
When listing property, practitioners
must be careful to detail all outside
structures and specifically highlight any
distinguishing features of such structures,
e.g., a garage with an enclosed workshop.
For appraisal purposes, all significant
accessory buildings should be described if
they are material in nature. In other words,
if such structures add to or detract from
the value of the subject property. Such
structures are identified on a sketch and
further outlined within the appraisal
report. See Figure Bellow.
In some instances, appraisal report forms
lack sufficient space to describe such
buildings within the standard format. An
addendum should be attached
Looking to Buy or Sell Luxury
Real Estate In Toronto, North York, Thornhill,
Woodbridge, Vaughan, Richmond Hill, Aurora, King
City and beyond...visit LuxuryBroker.ca
Mortgages247.ca 2011 Apply Online without Blackouts Mortgages247.ca is designed to provide competent and
reliable information regarding the subject matter covered. However it is
provided, free of charge, with the understanding that the authors are not
engaged in rendering legal, financial or other professional advice. Law and
practice often vary from province and province and if legal or other expert
assistance is required, the services of a professional should be sought. The
authors specifically disclaim any liability that is incurred from the use or
application of the contents of this website.
