FAQs
Zoning & Permits
How does Ottawa’s new Zoning By-law 2026-50 affect my home addition?
The 2026 by-law (replacing the old R1/R2 zones with N1/N2) has simplified setbacks and increased height limits to 11 metres. Trehane Renovation stays current on these changes, ensuring your addition maximizes lot coverage, often up to 45%, without requiring expensive minor variance applications or neighborhood appeals.
Can I build a detached garden suite (ADU) on my property in 2026?
Yes. Under the latest Ottawa zoning rules, detached Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are now permitted "as-of-right" on most residential lots. We specialize in designing and building these suites to meet Ontario Building Code, providing a turnkey solution for multi-generational living or rental income in areas like Nepean and Kanata.
What are the 2026 City of Ottawa building permit fees for a kitchen or bathroom?
For 2026, permit fees are calculated at approximately $12–$20 per $1,000 of construction value. Trehane Renovation manages the entire application process, including coordinating required plumbing and Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) permits, ensuring your project is fully legal and protected for future home resale.
How long does it take to get a renovation permit in Ottawa right now?
While the City of Ottawa aims for a 10-business-day turnaround for residential applications, incomplete drawings can cause delays. We mitigate this by submitting comprehensive, professional architectural plans from the start, typically securing permits for our clients within 2–4 weeks depending on the complexity of the structural changes.
Local Challenges
Do you have experience with foundation issues in Ottawa’s Leda clay soil?
Yes. Many homes in Orleans, Gloucester, and Nepean sit on sensitive Leda clay, which is prone to shifting. Trehane Renovation assesses foundation health before starting any major project, implementing proper drainage and structural reinforcement to prevent the cracking and settlement common in Ottawa’s unique geological environment.
Is Trehane Renovation part of the Ottawa Lead Service Pipe Replacement Program?
While the City handles the exterior portion, we coordinate the internal plumbing upgrades required for older homes (pre-1960) in neighborhoods like Westboro and the Glebe. We ensure your new kitchen or bathroom renovation includes the removal of any legacy lead or galvanized piping for optimal health and water pressure.
Can you renovate older Ottawa homes that still have knob-and-tube wiring?
Absolutely. We have extensive experience modernizing the "heritage" infrastructure of downtown Ottawa homes. Our team safely removes knob-and-tube or aluminum wiring during the "gut" phase of a renovation, replacing it with modern, ESA-certified panels and wiring that meet 2026 safety standards and insurance requirements.
What is required for a legal basement apartment (Secondary Suite) in Ottawa?
To be legal, a suite must have a private entrance, minimum ceiling heights, fire separation, and an egress window. Trehane Renovation specializes in converting unfinished basements into code-compliant rental units, handling everything from the fire-rated drywall to the specialized plumbing needed for a secondary kitchen.
Specialty Services
Can Trehane Renovation remove a load-bearing wall to create an open-concept layout?
Yes, structural modifications are a core specialty. We work with structural engineers to design recessed beam solutions (steel or LVL) that allow for a seamless, open-concept transition between your kitchen and living area. We handle the shoring, beam installation, and permit inspections to ensure your home’s structural integrity.
Do you install egress windows for basement bedrooms?
Yes. To meet the Ontario Building Code, every basement bedroom must have an egress window of a specific size for emergency exits. We provide full-service installation, including concrete cutting, window well drainage, and interior finishing, ensuring your basement is both bright and safe for occupants.
Are you seeing a trend toward "Warm Minimalism" in Ottawa renovations for 2026?
Currently, we are seeing a shift toward "Warm Minimalism", combining clean lines with natural textures like light oak and stone. Our design team helps Ottawa homeowners achieve this look through custom cabinetry, integrated smart lighting, and biophilic elements that make modern spaces feel layered and inviting rather than cold.
Can you help make my bathroom more accessible with a curbless shower?
Yes. We specialize in "Aging in Place" renovations, including curbless (linear drain) walk-in showers, integrated grab bars, and wider clearances. These spa-inspired designs are popular in 2026 for both their high-end aesthetic and their long-term functionality for Ottawa homeowners planning to stay in their homes.
Logistics & Trust
Which areas of Ottawa does Trehane Renovation serve?
Founded in 2004, we serve the entire Greater Ottawa Area. This includes western suburbs like Kanata and Stittsville, central hubs like Westboro and the Glebe, and eastern communities like Orleans and Cumberland. Our local presence ensures we are familiar with the specific building styles of each neighborhood.
How do you manage dust and debris if we are living in the home during construction?
We use a "Live-In" renovation protocol. This includes heavy-duty ZipWall plastic barriers, floor protection, and HEPA air scrubbers to minimize airborne dust. Our crews perform a thorough daily cleanup, ensuring your living environment remains as comfortable and functional as possible throughout the project duration.
Does Trehane Renovation offer a warranty on their workmanship?
Yes. We stand behind our work with a comprehensive warranty on all craftsmanship. As a BBB A+ Accredited business with over two decades of experience, our reputation is built on long-term reliability. We only partner with licensed, insured sub-trades (Electrical/Plumbing) who meet our high standards for quality and integrity.
