Have you heard the term “garden suite?” No, it’s not a living space surrounded by flowers. A garden suite is a self-contained dwelling set up in the yard of an existing single-family home, either to the rear or on the side. These structures provide potential benefits to both individual families and entire communities.

If you’re curious about garden suites, here’s what you should know…

Who makes use of garden suites?

Garden suites (sometimes referred to as “granny suites”) are appropriate for those aged 65 and over, as well as those with disabilities. Residents belong to a “host” family—the owners of the single-family home whose property is the site of the suite. More often than not, the occupant is a parent to one of the owners of the lot (and possibly a grandparent to the youngest member of the household).

Garden suites usually contain a kitchen, bathroom, living room, and one or more bathrooms. In other words, they’re complete homes. Ideally, they should also be easily installed. A number of different structures can work, from modules (which are delivered on trucks with plumbing and electrical installed) to panelized homes (comprised of a series of floor, wall, and roof panels) to mobile homes. These living spaces work well for one occupant.

Do they have any major benefits?

There are some advantages to garden suites—for both the families who install them and the community at large. Here are just a few.

Close family relationships

A host family can spend time with their older or disabled relative regularly while maintaining a private residence (and vice versa).

Support for those who need it

The resident of a garden suite can receive support from family members (whether that means companionship, cooking and cleaning, or help with hygiene and personal tasks) while living independently.

They could free up resources

Community resources—such as home care and meal delivery services—may be conserved when relatives provide care for a family member who requires it.

More affordable housing

In a real estate and rental market like Toronto’s, affordable housing is often scarce. Every garden suite that’s occupied equals one more home that’s available elsewhere.

While there are significant benefits associated with garden suites, concerns have also been raised. In some cases, neighbours mistakenly believe that the presence of a nearby garden suite will lower their property value. Fortunately, there’s no evidence that this is true.

Can garden suites be constructed in Toronto?

Garden suites are legal in many cities, so long as the host family obtains approved zoning and a building permit. That’s not yet the case in Toronto, but change is on its way.

Recently, the city commissioned a survey known as the Garden + Suites Project, which is part of its Expanding Neighbourhoods initiative. It delves into issues such as privacy, the protection of green space, and parking. The results will inform regulations to permit garden suites. You can see the results here.

If you’re considering building a garden suite for a family member in the years ahead, it’s best to stay in the loop about evolving zoning and bylaws. Be sure you also know about any implication for your taxes (in other municipalities, property taxes increase while the structure is standing—or a license fee is levied).

For over 36 years, our clients have trusted us to minimize risk, offer unbiased opinions, and ensure their best interests are served. Contact us today to talk about your needs, by emailing us at evan@christensengroup.ca or calling us at 416-441-2888 ext. 772.