In order to find out if your second suite complies with the regulations, the unit will have to be inspected by Toronto Fire Prevention staff. Unless it was approved by the Toronto Building Department under permit and no changes have occurred, there is a fee for a Toronto Fire Services inspection, compliance letter, and records search.
For an existing second suite, there is a multiple step process that you must undertake. You may be required to upgrade the suite to meet the code requirements and other standards. To be considered existing, the second suite must have been in existence prior to July 1994. You will also need a compliance letter from Electrical Safety Authority and can contact them directly.
Please note this is only for an existing second suite. If you want to build a new second suite you must go to a Toronto Building office and obtain a building permit.
There are fees for each stage and you may be required to update your suite in order to comply.
Application and fee payment may be submitted by mail, in person, or by contacting any of the Fire Prevention Command Offices. Authorization letters from the owner or agreements of purchase of sale may be required.
Contact the Fire Prevention office in your area for more information.
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