Garden Suites Calgary

Key Highlights

• Garden suites like which are also known as backyard suites or secondary suites, provide a flexible housing option in Calgary.
• These suites can be used for different reasons, like housing family or making rental income.
• To build a garden suite, you need to understand Calgary’s rules. This includes getting permits and following building codes.
• It’s important to know the construction steps and costs before starting a garden suite project.
• Garden suites can increase property value, help with affordable housing, and support sustainable urban growth.

Introduction

In Calgary’s lively housing market, garden suites are a popular option for homeowners looking for extra living space. These backyard homes, often called “secondary suites,” offer a special way to add more space and make the most of your property. This guide will help you understand garden suites in Calgary, from what they are to how to build one successfully.

Understanding Garden Suites in Calgary

 

Imagine a cozy home tucked behind your main house. It offers privacy and independence. That’s what a garden suite in Calgary is all about. These self-contained homes, sometimes called “backyard suites” or “secondary suites,” add to your property. They enhance its usefulness and worth.

The City of Calgary manages rules for garden suites. They provide a flexible option for different living needs. They are legally seen as secondary suites, separate from the main house. They must follow specific building codes and city laws.

Storage sheds, studio sheds or utility sheds from Portable Buildings Alberta can both be used as backyard suites.  We also have deluxe cabins that you can convert.

Definition and Types of Garden Suites

In simple terms, garden suites, laneway houses, and carriage houses are types of secondary suites. These are separate living spaces next to the main home. You can think of them as cute little cottages in your backyard. They have their own doors, kitchens, bathrooms, and living rooms.

Even though the names can change, the main idea is the same. They offer a self-contained living space on a property that already has a main home. “Laneway houses” usually refer to homes that you reach through a back lane. “Carriage houses” often remind people of buildings above garages. The term “garden suites” includes a wider range of designs and locations.

The Appeal of Garden Suites in Urban Living

The charm of garden suites goes beyond their cute look. For homeowners in Calgary, they are a great answer to changing living needs and money goals.

Think about making steady rental income by renting out your garden suite. This extra cash can help with your mortgage or support your long-term money plans. Besides the financial perks, garden suites are great for families with different generations. They offer a private space for older parents, which keeps them close but still independent. Adult children can also find a good place to live in these backyard spots.

The Process of Building a Garden Suite in Calgary

Starting a garden suite construction project in Calgary requires planning and knowing the city’s rules. You will need to get the right permits, follow building codes, and respect zoning bylaws.

From the first design to the end of construction, it is important to work with skilled professionals like architects and contractors who know Calgary’s specific rules. They can help you with permit applications, building standards, and inspections. This way, you can have a smooth and compliant building process.

Initial Steps: Planning and Permits

Before pouring the foundation, meticulous planning is paramount. Begin by determining if your property’s size and zoning regulations permit garden suite construction. The City of Calgary’s land use bylaws dictate the permissible size, location, and usage of secondary suites.

Engaging a qualified professional to assess your property’s suitability is advisable. Once feasibility is established, the permit application process commences. This involves submitting detailed architectural drawings, site plans, and supporting documents to demonstrate compliance with building codes, fire regulations, and accessibility standards.

Construction Phase: What to Expect

With the permits in place, construction now starts. This phase turns the plans into real buildings. It is important to have skilled contractors who know building rules and local laws for a smooth process.

Some key things to think about are having proper egress windows for fire safety. You also need to follow the National Building Code to keep everything strong. Planning inspections at different points during construction is important too. Knowing the timelines for each part, from the foundation to the final touches, helps manage the project well.

Conclusion

In conclusion, garden suites in Calgary are a great choice for city living. They provide extra space and usefulness. It’s important to know about the types of garden suites and why people like them when you think about this housing option. Building a garden suite requires planning, permits, and construction work. If you want to improve your property value and add more living space, garden suites could be a good opportunity in Calgary’s real estate market. If you want to learn more about garden suites or need help with building one, please get in touch for expert advice and support.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to build a garden suite in Calgary?

Pricing for garden suites in Calgary can change a lot. It depends on the size, the design, and the materials used. Homeowners can expect to gain a good return on their investment. This can come from rental income or a higher property value. To find out more about pricing, it’s a good idea to contact a local builder.

Can garden suites be rented out in Calgary?

The City of Calgary allows homeowners to rent out garden suites as long as they follow the land use bylaw. This is a great chance for homeowners to earn rental income.