How to Tell If Your Home Is a Good Candidate for an ADU
A simple, practical checklist for Toronto homeowners
Building an ADU is one of the smartest ways to add living space, create rental income and increase property value. But not every property is ready for one. Before you commit to plans or permits, here is a practical checklist to help you figure out whether your home is a strong candidate for an ADU.
1. Check your zoning
The first step is confirming whether your property is zoned to allow an ADU. Most residential zones in Toronto now support garden suites and laneway suites, but there are still rules around setbacks, height, size and placement. A quick zoning review will tell you what type of unit your property can support and whether you need any variances.
Ask yourself:
• Is my property located in a zone that allows secondary suites, laneway suites or garden suites
• Does my lot meet the minimum requirements for setbacks, separation distances and height limits
2. Look at the available space in your yard
Even if zoning allows it, your yard needs enough usable space for the structure itself. This includes space for the unit, access to it and the required clearance from your main house.
Ask yourself:
• Is my yard large enough for a small, safe and functional unit
• Do I have room for the required setbacks
• Will the ADU leave me with a usable outdoor space
3. Check for proper access
Every ADU needs a clear and safe path from the street to the unit. This can be along the side of the home or through a laneway.
Ask yourself:
• Do I have a clear path that emergency services can use
• Is the pathway wide enough and free of major obstacles
• If I am planning a laneway suite, does the laneway have proper year round access
4. Review your utilities
An ADU needs proper water lines, drainage, electrical service and heating. Some homes are already in good shape. Others require upgrades before the unit can be added.
Ask yourself:
• Can my existing electrical service support another unit
• Is my sewer line in good condition and able to handle additional load
• Will I need to run new utility lines to the backyard
• Is my furnace, boiler or HVAC setup compatible with an additional suite
5. Consider privacy and layout
A good ADU design works for both the main home and the new living space. Privacy matters, especially if you plan to rent the suite.
Ask yourself:
• Will the unit feel private and separate from the main house
• Can I position windows so both spaces feel comfortable
• Will the layout of the ADU make sense for long term use
6. Think about long term use
ADUs are flexible spaces. They work for family members, rental income or guest use. A good candidate property is one that can support long term plans.
Ask yourself:
• Am I building this as a rental suite, a family space or both
• Will this unit add long term value to the property
• Do I have realistic expectations about size and function
Is your property a good candidate
If your home checks off most of the points above, you are likely in a strong position to build an ADU. Every property is different, which is why a quick assessment from a builder can save time and frustration.
If you want to know whether your property is a strong candidate for an ADU, contact us for a free quote and site assessment.