Secondary Suites in Houses

The 2024 Ontario Building Code introduces substantial updates to secondary suites in both new and existing houses. Adding secondary suites to homes is becoming increasingly common, but ensuring compliance with these new standards presents unique challenges. This workshop simplifies the process, providing a comprehensive understanding of the recent changes and how to apply them effectively.

This one-day advanced course includes a new half-day section dedicated to the construction of secondary suites in new houses. In the second half of the day, participants explore how existing buildings can be renovated to include secondary suites, both for buildings under and over 5 years. Updated to reflect the latest OBC requirements, the course equips building inspectors, plans examiners, designers, builders, and engineers with the knowledge needed to navigate these evolving standards with confidence.

Through detailed discussions, hands-on exercises, and real-world examples, participants gain a deeper understanding of the technical requirements of the OBC. The course also includes a workbook to serve as an ongoing reference for daily work.

Available Workshop Dates

Secondary Suites in Houses - 2024 OBC (Feb)

February 27, 2025

Secondary Suites in Houses - 2024 OBC (April)

April 1, 2025

Course Details

What you'll learn:

- New OBC requirements for constructing secondary suites in new houses

- How to apply Parts 10 and 11 of the OBC to secondary suites

- Compliance alternatives for:

- Egress and fire separations

- Updates for homes less than 5 years old

- Understanding and using:

- Hazard index tables

- Construction index

- Early warning and evacuation tables

- Strategies for navigating compliance alternatives effectively

Who this course is designed for:

Building inspectors and plans examiners — enhance your ability to review and inspect secondary suite designs.

Designers, builders, and engineers — learn how to design and construct code-compliant secondary suites.

Delivery Method:

- Hybrid (in person at the RSM Training Facility or online via Microsoft Teams)

- Full day workshop

Interactive Features:

- Engaging discussions

- Activities and quizzes to reinforce key concepts

- Real-world examples and case studies

Resources Provided:

- Digital course workbook included for easy reference after the course

- Coffee breaks and Lunch are provided for in person attendees

Course Modules

Module 1: The Path of Compliance

Module 2: New Houses with Secondary Suites

Module 3: Renovations to Houses 5 Years +

Module 4: Renovations to Houses 0-5 Years

FAQ

What if I can't attend in person?

We deliver every training session live in a hybrid format. If you cannot attend in person, join us online via Microsoft Teams. Online participants still get to join in on the discussions and interact with other members. You can get the full training experience from your home or office when we use our Meeting Owl camera. With this approach to hybrid collaboration, you will see the full 360 degree view of the training room and be able to participate with the group live in real time.

Will I have access to course material after the workshop?

All participants will have the ability to download all of the course material, including the presentation, activities and quizzes, for two weeks after the course date.

Are there prerequisites?

There are no prerequisites for this course. It is our intention to design the course in a way that benefits participants of all experience levels. In fact, we find that the best discussions often happen when a course has a wide range of experience levels between participants.

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