The City of Brampton’s has recently cracked down on illegal basement apartments, also known as second units. Second units can help provide affordable housing, but they also need to be safe and livable.
Completing the one-time registration process ensures a second unit meets all requirements under the Ontario Building Code or Fire Code, Electrical Safety Authority and local Zoning By-law.
The one-time registration program for second units includes:
- A $200 initial fee for zoning compliance. This fee is non-refundable.
- A registration fee. The registration fee is $500 if you, as the owner, are living in the house. The fee is $1,000 if you, as the owner are not living in the house.
- Any applicable building permit and/or fire inspection fees must also be paid.
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Homeowners who don’t register their second unit with the City of Brampton may be subject to a fine of up to $25,000 for individuals and $50,000 for a corporation.
According to the Insurance Bureau of Canada, failing to disclose your second unit may also void your home insurance policy in case of fire or other insurable situation.
As part of the registration process, you will be required to provide verification of insurance, including the name of your insurance company and the policy number.
As a landlord, it’s important that you have proper home insurance coverage. According to the Insurance Bureau of Canada, if something were to happen – such as a fire in your second unit – and your insurance provider is unaware that you have a tenant living there, your policy could be voided.
For more information on fees and fines for second units, please visit the City of Brampton website.
