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You’re in the right place!  We are a husband and wife team who LOVE this business and love doing good work for good people.  We’re believe in the face-to-face version of this business built and not the one that hides behind websites and fake five star reviews.

As a husband-and-wife team we’ve been in and around the home business for over thirty years.  And because of that, we can’t possibly convey all of that experience in a few mouse clicks.  Reach out.  Connect.  Come see us at one of the home shows.  We are quietly one of the fastest growing renovation companies in Calgary and look forward to hearing about your project large or small. Just FYI, EVERY contractors bread and butter are smaller projects so don’t hesitate to reach out.

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Secondary Suite Calgary: Your Complete 2026 Guide

Basement Renovations

Secondary Suites in Calgary: The 2026 Guide

Calgary changed its secondary suite rules in 2023, making it easier than ever for homeowners to add legal suites. Here’s what you need to know.

What Is a Secondary Suite?

A self-contained dwelling unit within your home with its own kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, and entrance. Most commonly located in the basement, but can also be in a separate structure (garage suite) or within the main dwelling.

2023 Zoning Changes

Calgary’s Land Use Bylaw was amended in 2023 to allow secondary suites in nearly all residential zones without requiring a Development Permit. This was a major shift that opened up secondary suites to thousands of additional properties.

Requirements for a Legal Suite

  • Minimum ceiling height: 6’8″ (7’+ recommended)
  • Separate entrance
  • Full kitchen with cooking facilities
  • Full bathroom (3-piece minimum)
  • Bedroom with egress window
  • Fire separation between units (5/8″ Type X drywall)
  • Interconnected smoke/CO detectors
  • Independent heating
  • Adequate parking per zoning

Costs

  • Basic suite (existing entrance/rough-ins): $58,000 – $85,000
  • Typical suite (new entrance required): $75,000 – $110,000
  • Full build from scratch: $90,000 – $140,000+

Financial Incentives

Calgary’s Secondary Suite Incentive Program (SSIP) offers up to $10,000 toward the development of a legal secondary suite. Requirements change periodically — check the City website for current program details.

Rental Income

  • 1-bedroom suite: $1,200 – $1,600/month
  • 2-bedroom suite: $1,500 – $2,200/month
  • Premium suite: $2,000 – $2,800/month

Ready to Build a Secondary Suite?

Contact Olympic City Renovations for a free consultation.

Olympic City Renovations serves Calgary, Priddis, Okotoks, and surrounding communities. We specialize in kitchen renovations, bathroom renovations, basement developments, and luxury garage builds.

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