Conversions (Rental Suites)

Creating or legalizing a secondary suite can be a sustainable and financially rewarding decision.

What are secondary suites?

In the City of Vancouver, a secondary suite is an approved dwelling unit within a larger 1 or 2 family dwelling, that has its own kitchen, living area, and separate external access.  Secondary suites can share internal access with the main dwelling.

What benefits do secondary suites have?

Secondary suites have numerous benefits:

• Much of the space that will comprise the rental suite is often only used occasionally or for storage (i.e. “wasted space”).  Therefore, the return on investment can be huge because suites can provide a significant rental stream to generate extra income or help pay down a mortgage. 
• Secondary suites provide flexibility by being a separate living space for extended family such as adult children or elderly parents, for helpers such as nannies or other caregivers, or for third party tenants. 
• Because much of the framework is already in place, conversions can often be completed in a matter of months, as opposed to constructing a laneway home which can take 1-1.5 years.
• Having a secondary suite rented out to a tenant may exempt you from paying the Speculation and Vacancy Tax even if you are not residing in the home.

How do I legalize an existing illegal suite?

Do you have a home with an existing illegal suite and now wish to legalize it?  The process is fairly straightforward in Vancouver and the City welcomes you to apply.   If you have an illegal suite but the City has not yet contacted you about it, your will mainly follow the same process as someone who is a new applicant.

There are many benefits to legalizing a suite, including safety assurances that it conforms to Building Code standards, as well as ensuring that your existing insurance policies are not void in the event of a claim. 

How can I get started?

Please look for more information on our CONVERSIONS (RENTAL SUITES) section of our website, where we can answer more of your questions on budgets and next steps.