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Whitley Ave | 02 Unit Conversion

Toronto

Whitley Ave | 02 Unit Conversion

Property Type: Existing Single-Family Dwelling
Scope of Work: Conversion of 900 sq.ft. Unfinished Basement into Legal 2nd Residential Unit

Project Overview:

This Toronto-based conversion project made strategic use of an existing 900 sq.ft. unfinished basement to create a spacious and modern 2-bedroom legal unit. While the basement was never finished, because it was part of the existing structure, we were able to apply Part 11 of the Ontario Building Code—allowing for reduced compliance requirements compared to Part 9. This move saved our investor both significant construction costs and project time while still meeting all health and safety standards.

The final design included a bright and open layout, premium finishes, and an emphasis on livability—making this unit highly attractive in the rental market.

Scope & Strategy:

  • Converted an existing 900 sq.ft. unfinished basement into a      legal 2-bedroom unit

  • Utilized existing dedicated side entry as the primary exit

  • Applied OBC Part 11 provisions to reduce scope and cost      of construction where applicable

  • Fire-rated all walls and ceilings separating the upper and      lower units

  • Designed a full-size laundry room (not a closet) with      proper appliances and laundry tub

  • Maximized natural lighting by proposing larger windows in key      living areas

  • Maintained open-concept layout for kitchen, living, and dining      spaces

  • Upgraded mechanicals for independent ventilation and heating

Challenges Solved:

  • Used Part 11 to avoid overbuilding or unnecessary demolition,      typical under Part 9

  • Maintained cost-efficiency without sacrificing code compliance      or livability

  • Navigated fire separation and egress with ease thanks to a      proactive design strategy

  • Created a premium-feeling basement unit ideal for families or      professionals

Investor Benefits:

  • High-demand 2-bedroom unit created with smart cost-saving      measures

  • Avoided unnecessary construction and delays by applying      existing building provisions

  • Increased monthly cash flow potential without extensive      modifications

  • Legal compliance ensured long-term rental and insurance      viability

Current Status:

Permit approved and construction completed. Ready for occupancy.

Duplex, Basement Suite, Residential

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