geostruction
Steps to Complete Your Basement
Legal Basement & Secondary
Dwelling Units (SDU) in Ottawa
Safe, Legal, Income-Generating Basement Conversions — Designed, Permitted, and Built Properly
A legal basement apartment adds long-term income potential and increases the value of your home. At Geostruction, we take care of the entire process from the city zoning review to architecture, permits, fire separation, and complete construction — ensuring your new unit is fully compliant with Ottawa Building Code and ready to pass inspection.
✅ Why Convert Your Basement Into a Legal SDU?
Homeowners choose legal basement units because they offer:
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Reliable rental income
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Higher resale value
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Multi-generational living options
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Safe, code-compliant living space
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Full alignment with Ottawa bylaws and OBC requirements
✅ What’s Included in a Legal Basement Conversion?
Complete Architectural & Design Package
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Full floor plan development
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3D layouts and interior planning
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Egress window sizing & location
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Proper room layout for kitchen, bathroom, bedrooms, and living space
Building Code Compliance
We ensure your basement meets all requirements for:
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Fire separation (1-hour rated assemblies)
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Soundproofing between units
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Protected mechanical room
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Interconnected smoke & CO alarms
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Minimum ceiling height compliance
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Natural light & ventilation
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Emergency escape window (egress)
Permit Ready
We prepare and submit all documents needed for approval:
✅ Architectural drawings
✅ Mechanical / HVAC layout
✅ Electrical & plumbing plan
✅ Site plan
✅ Fire separation details
✅ Full permit submission & City of Ottawa communication
Construction
We build your SDU to code, including:
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Framing & insulation
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Electrical & plumbing upgrades
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HVAC extensions
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Fire & soundproofing
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New bathroom & kitchen installation
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Flooring, drywall, doors
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Final finishing & fixtures
Our Legal Basement Process
1. On-Site Consultation
We evaluate layout, structure, zoning, egress options, and feasibility.
2. Design & 3D Modelling
You see the full layout before work begins.
3. Permit-Ready Plans
Full architectural package prepared to Ontario Building Code.
4. Permit Handling
We submit everything to the City of Ottawa on your behalf.
5. Construction
Built safely, code-compliant, inspected, and professionally finished.
6. Final Inspection & Occupancy Approval
Your SDU becomes a fully legal, income-ready unit.
The criteria for being a legal basement.
✅ Why Choose Geostruction for Your SDU Project?
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15+ years in architectural planning & construction
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Deep knowledge of Ottawa SDU regulations
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Turnkey: Design → Drawings → Permits → Build
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Transparent pricing & clear communication
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High-quality workmanship on every detail
✅ Call to Action
Ready to transform your basement into a safe, legal rental unit?
Book your free SDU consultation today.
