Secondary Suite Contractor Vancouver

Legal secondary suites built right — permits, code compliance, and quality construction that passes inspection the first time.

CoreVal Homes is a BC Housing-certified contractor specialising in legal secondary suites across Metro Vancouver, registered under the Homeowner Protection Act.

Last reviewed: April 2026 · Metro Vancouver

BC Housing CertifiedLegal Suite Specialists2-5-10 Warranty

Suite Types We Build

Every suite type fully permitted, code-compliant, and built to CoreVal standards.

Basement Suite

Full conversion of existing basement or new excavation — separate entrance, egress windows, legal ceiling heights, and proper fire separation.

Carriage House

Detached dwelling unit built over or beside a garage structure. Separate address, full utilities, and independent entrance.

Laneway Suite

Self-contained laneway dwelling with lane access. Ideal for rental income or multigenerational living on qualifying lots.

Above-Garage Suite

Convert unused space above your attached or detached garage into a legal suite with proper insulation, plumbing, and egress.

Why a Legal Secondary Suite Pays for Itself

  • Rental income of $1,800–$2,800/month covers most or all of your mortgage payment in Metro Vancouver.
  • A legal suite adds $80,000–$150,000 to your assessed property value — often more than the build cost.
  • Qualify for a larger mortgage using rental income projections under CMHC secondary suite guidelines.

Ready to Build a Legal Suite?

Book a free site visit. We will confirm your lot eligibility, review suite options, and provide a realistic cost estimate before you commit to anything.

Get a Suite Quote

Secondary Suite FAQs

What makes a secondary suite 'legal' in Vancouver?

A legal secondary suite meets the City of Vancouver's zoning and building bylaw requirements: proper ceiling heights (minimum 1.9m), separate entrance, egress windows in bedrooms, smoke and CO detectors, fire separation between units, and a building permit. CoreVal handles all of this — we build to legal standards and pull the permit on your behalf.

How much does a secondary suite cost in Vancouver?

Secondary suite costs in Metro Vancouver typically range from $80,000–$180,000 depending on scope, existing conditions, and finishes. A basic basement suite conversion with existing plumbing rough-ins will run less than a new suite requiring full excavation. We provide a detailed cost breakdown after an on-site assessment.

Can I build a suite in my basement?

Most properties in Metro Vancouver are now eligible for a secondary suite under new SSMUH zoning rules. Eligibility depends on your lot size, existing structure, ceiling height, and municipal requirements. Contact CoreVal for a free site assessment — we will confirm your eligibility and walk you through the options.