London
Property Type: Existing Single-Family Dwelling
Scope of Work: Mid-Construction Consulting & Code Resolution for Legal Basement Unit
Project Overview
This project highlights a common issue faced by many investors—hiring low-cost design firms that disappear when construction challenges arise. At Mackay Ave in London, Ontario, the investor had already received permit approval from another designer. However, once construction began and on-site issues were flagged by the building inspector, the original firm went completely unresponsive.
That’s when our team stepped in to help salvage the project. What seemed like a standard basement conversion quickly revealed serious complications with ceiling height compliance, which explained why the original firm likely walked away.
Scope & Strategy
- Conducted a full review of previously approved permit drawings.
- Completed a site visit and met with the building inspector to understand concerns.
- Identified Part 11 opportunities in the Ontario Building Code to avoid costly structural modifications.
- Developed a compliance path for the ceiling height deficiency, avoiding permit revocation.
- Provided detailed documentation and technical support for construction corrections.
- Guided the contractor through the modified scope with real-time architectural input.
- Resolved a major ceiling height violation mid-construction without halting the project.
- Provided hands-on design and code guidance after the original firm abandoned the project.
- Used Part 11 allowances to reduce the burden of Part 9 requirements—saving significant time and money.
- Prevented permit cancellation and ensured continued progress on the legal 2-unit conversion.
- Reinforced the importance of working with design professionals who stay involved through construction.
- Avoided starting over entirely despite inherited issues.
- Delivered a clear compliance path and became the bridge between inspector and contractor.
Challenges Solved
Investor Benefits
Current Status
Construction changes are complete, permit compliance confirmed, and the unit is being finalized for tenant occupancy. Mackay Ave is now back on track.
Basement Suite, Design Takeover, Code Rescue, Dwelling
