Edmonton Legal SuitesLegal suite questions
Straight answers about secondary suites in Edmonton. For the detailed rules, see the requirements guide.
How much does a legal basement suite cost?
It depends on the house. The biggest cost factors are whether the basement is unfinished or already finished, whether you need a new egress window or a separate entrance, the heating and ventilation setup, how much plumbing has to move for the kitchen and bathroom, sound and fire separation, and your finish choices. We give you a written quote after a free on-site assessment.
What permits does a legal suite need in Edmonton?
A Development Permit before the suite is built or used, a Building Permit, and trade permits for the electrical, plumbing and gas, and HVAC work. We look after the development and building permits. The licensed trades pull their own trade permits.
How long does it take?
Permits usually take a few weeks, then construction takes several weeks, with inspections along the way. The schedule depends on the scope, the permit review and inspection timing. We give you a project schedule with your quote.
Can you legalize the suite I already have?
Often, yes. We assess the existing suite against the current requirements, tell you what needs upgrading (common items are fire separation, smoke and CO alarms, egress windows, heating and ventilation), then handle the permits, the work and the inspections.
Does a legal suite need its own furnace?
It needs its own heating and ventilation that the suite controls separately and that isn't ducted to the rest of the house. A separate furnace with its own ductwork is a common way to do it; in-floor or electric heat with separate ventilation such as an HRV can also work.
Do the bedrooms need egress windows?
Yes. Each bedroom needs a way out: a window that opens to at least 0.35 m² with no side under 380 mm, and, if it has a window well, at least 760 mm of clear space in front of the window. Existing basement windows often have to be enlarged.
Can I rent it out?
Once the permits are closed and the inspections are passed, the suite is a legal dwelling you can rent. Tell your home insurer about the suite, and review Alberta's landlord and tenant rules before you rent.
What does a "suite rough-in" permit mean?
A rough-in permit only covers work toward a future suite. It does not make the suite legal. You still need a Development Permit and the remaining building and trade permits before anyone can live in it.
Have a question about your basement?
Book a free on-site assessment. We will tell you what your basement needs and give you a written quote.