Port Coquitlam homes with suites and coach houses offer versatile living arrangements and income potential. These properties feature secondary suites within the main residence, along with detached coach houses in the rear yard. Allowed in designated residential zones, they provide additional space and rental opportunities while complying with local regulations. Whether for extended family or rental income, these homes offer flexible housing options in Port Coquitlam. You can find these by searching for Port Coquitlam homes/ house with 2 kitchens. If the secondary suite is legal and rented, the lenders will consider the income from the suite when qualifying buyers for a mortgage. These homes are commonly called Port Coquitlam Homes/ Houses with mortgage helper.
Please note that this information serves as a general guide and does not supersede the stipulations outlined in the British Columbia Building Code, Zoning Bylaw, or any other City regulations.
Since 1998, secondary suites have been allowed in detached homes in Port Coquitlam, except in the Riverwood neighborhood and specific lots with restrictive notices on title. Nowadays, many new houses are constructed with the potential for an additional unit, and some even accommodate a second unauthorized unit, reflecting a growing trend towards maximizing housing options within the city. In 2020, the city recorded 3,038 Port Coquitlam Homes with secondary suites, from which 60% were rented.
In the current Residential Duplex (RD) zone, only two attached dwellings are allowed on one lot, and secondary suites within these dwellings are not permitted. However, recent revisions to the BC Building Code now allow for secondary suites in row homes and side-by-side duplexes, offering expanded housing options within these property types.
The Port Coquitlam council is deliberating on a new housing initiative, taking careful consideration before allowing secondary suites in duplexes.
Parking spaces for coach houses and secondary suites must be independently accessible, ensuring separate access for each unit.
Homes with secondary suites in Port Coquitlam receive utility billings for both the main dwelling and the suite, covering services such as water, sewer, garbage, and recycling. Property owners can apply for a secondary suite exemption on the additional utility billings, subject to specific conditions. It’s important to submit applications annually before the due date to avoid penalties.
Port Coquitlam Coach Houses
Coach houses, often referred to as laneway houses in other areas, are compact dwellings, garnering interest in Port Coquitlam areas as a means to introduce density to single-family neighbourhoods in a low-impact manner. While not cheap to construct due to the need for essential amenities like bathrooms, kitchens, and heating systems, similar to main houses, and typically offering fewer but still valuable bedrooms, coach houses hold appeal for single-family property owners aiming to maximize land usage. Whether rented out or used as living quarters for extended family members, these additional units offer versatility and potential for homeowners seeking to make the most of their property.
Coach houses are permitted on eligible single-family lots in Port Coquitlam:
- are self-contained accessory dwellings at the rear of residential lots
- are small homes up to 70 sq.m. (753 sq.ft.) in size
- may be at street level or above a garage
- may not be the principal dwelling on a lot
- may not be subdivided or stratified
- can be rented, but not as short-term or vacation rentals
For more information about Port Coquitlam Homes/ Houses with suites (Homes with Mortgage helper) check Port Coquitlam city website. You will find which documents are required for a Secondary suite permit application, what Port Coquitlam City services are available to you, what should you consider when designing a Port Coquitlam Home/ House with suite, etc. Check the Coach house brochure from Port Coquitlam city for Homes/ Houses with Suite.
