Progressive changes are coming to Whitby with regard to accessory apartments and anyone thinking of buying a rental property, or who wants to add one to their existing home, should take note.
The proposal is that an amended bylaw will handle applications for secondary units in homes on a general basis. This includes permitting accessory apartments in single detached dwellings with a minimum frontage of 10.5 metres and semi-detached dwellings with a minimum frontage of 10 metres, as long as they comply with safety standards.
What this really means is that if you want to have a basement apartment and are not legally zoned for one, you'll no longer have to spend the $6,000.00 to apply to a zoning amendment; you simply have to comply with the by-law and safety requirements. My interpretation is that as a landlord, you'll no longer face the threat of being "shut down" because of a zoning infraction. That is huge.
It is important to comply with safety standards, which implies fire safety. Failure to address fire safey compliance could mean big trouble if there was a fire or claim against you by a tenant. There is always a chance your insurance provider could contest the claim if it were proven you didn't comply with fire safety standards.
Visit the Town of Whitby website for more information.
From a real estate perspective this will create more value for homes with basement apartments and make it more attractive for those home buyers or investors who want to purchase with the idea of renting. When done properly, this is a win-win-win for all parties involved; the landlord, the tenant and the municipality.