Hamilton
Property Type: Existing Single-Family Detached Home
Scope of Work: Full Conversion to Legal Triplex (One Unit per Floor)
Project Overview
Located in Hamilton, this project focused on converting an existing single-family home into a fully compliant 3-unit legal triplex, with one self-contained residential unit on each level: basement, ground, and second floor. The design optimizes each floor’s unique features while ensuring full Ontario Building Code and fire safety compliance.
Thanks to Hamilton’s updated zoning bylaws, no additional parking was required for this triplex—a major benefit that allowed the investor to proceed without costly site plan changes.
Scope & Strategy
- Designed three legal units, each with independent living, kitchen, bathroom, and egress: Basement Unit (slightly reduced in size to accommodate a shared laundry room), Ground Floor Unit (full layout optimized for rental-ready functionality), Second Floor Unit (enhanced with access to the existing attic, providing added storage space)
- Retained 1 existing parking space in line with Hamilton’s current zoning exemptions for triplexes
- Ensured OBC compliance on fire separation, sound transmission, and mechanical ventilation
- Incorporated natural lighting and egress strategies without requiring new window openings
Challenges Solved
- Fire protection for exit paths: installed fire shutters on windows along tenant exit routes, and installed 5/8″ Type X drywall over existing exterior masonry walls to increase fire resistance along key egress paths
- Navigated ceiling height and headroom clearances in basement with smart layout planning
- Maximized layout efficiency without triggering full building upgrades or costly additions
Investor Benefits
- Transformed a single-family home into a cash-flowing legal triplex with three rental income streams
- Increased building value significantly with minimal site alterations
- No additional parking required under Hamilton’s progressive zoning changes
- Added tenant appeal with attic-based storage and well-separated units
- Fully permit-approved and compliant
Current Status
Permit approved. Construction completed. Property is now operating as a fully legal 3-unit residential building.
Triplex, Code Compliant, Attic Storage, Multi-Unit
