Question 1

Can I add a suite to my house?

Accepted Answer

Often, but it depends on the lot, the zoning and the building. Ceiling height and egress windows are the two things that most commonly stop a basement suite, and both are expensive to fix after the fact. It is worth checking before you plan around it.

Question 2

What is the difference between a garden house and a coach house?

Accepted Answer

Both are detached dwellings in the rear yard. A coach house — a laneway house in Vancouver — typically fronts a lane and often sits above or beside parking. A garden house is used where there is no lane access. Which one your lot allows is set by the zoning and the lane.

Question 3

The city has issued a notice about work at my property. Can you help?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Work-stop notices and unpermitted work are a large part of what we do. We document what exists, prepare the drawings needed to bring it into compliance, and deal with the municipality directly.

Question 4

Do I need an architect?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the size and occupancy of the project. Where a project requires it, a registered architect reviews the design for compliance with the BC Building Code and local bylaws, and provides sign and seal.

Question 5

How many units can I build on my lot?

Accepted Answer

Recent provincial direction on small-scale multi-unit housing has changed the answer for many properties. Frontage, lot area, setbacks, servicing and protected trees all bear on it. Give us the address and we will tell you what it allows.

Question 6

Do you manage the construction as well as the design?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We have been building since 2007 and designing since 2018, so the same office can carry a project from the first sketch through to close-out.

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