Vancouver boasts diverse housing options, including homes with secondary suites. These suites are self-contained living spaces within one-family or two-family dwelling, offering additional living space or rental income potential. They provide flexibility for homeowners to accommodate family members or tenants and contribute to the city’s housing diversity. Regulations vary based on property zoning, requiring adherence to safety standards and permit regulations set by the City of Vancouver. These are Vancouver East 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 Vancouver East 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.

What you need to know about secondary suites?

• a secondary suite cannot be strata-titled, limiting their individual sale.
• Additionally, the Zoning and Development By-law prohibits a third suite, maintaining a limit of one suite per primary dwelling unit.
• While duplexes may accommodate two suites, only one suite is allowed per unit.
• Not all zones permit secondary suites in duplexes or two-family homes.
• It’s crucial to note that suites not approved through the permitting process are not legally recognized dwelling units, making them ineligible for short- or long-term licenses.
• To legalize a secondary suite, it must comply with all city by-laws, typically addressed during the permit application phase.
• When purchasing a property, you inherit responsibility for any unpermitted work, including secondary suites, even if it was done by a previous owner.
• If you plan to rent your secondary suite, you will need a long-term rental business licence.

Removing a secondary suite

To remove a secondary suite from your home, you must obtain the necessary permit(s) beforehand. This involves removing the kitchen/cooking facilities, such as the range, and addressing any other unpermitted work that may have been done previously.

For more information about Vancouver East Homes/ Houses with suites (Homes with Mortgage helper) check Vancouver city website. You will find which documents are required for a Secondary suite permit application, what Vancouver City services are available to you, what should you consider when designing a Vancouver Home/ House with suite, etc. Check the brochure from Vancouver city if you are looking to create a Homes/ House with Suite in Vancouver East. Frequently asked questions: Homes with secondary suite.