In-law suites are all the rave! Whether you live in a multi-generational home or would just like a beautiful space for family to stay when they come over – in-law suites can be extremely useful additions to your home. Just like any other room in your house, your in-law suite can be constructed and styled in any way you want. However, before calling your contractor and selecting renovation materials, here are a few things to consider when constructing a space for your in-laws.

1. Building codes

Before making any addition to your home, it’s a necessary and good practice to check your local building codes. There are usually guidelines and limits to what you can do with an addition to your home. Typically, additions are limited to having a living area, bedroom, bathroom and small kitchenette. Anything other than these rooms will require separate permits. This is because a more sizeable addition to your home will result in it not being considered a single-family home anymore. So, before you get to building, check what is permitted and what isn’t. It’ll save you a ton of time and stress.

2. Location

As with everything that has to do with real estate – location is everything! With a vision of your dream space in mind, it’s time to pick the ideal spot to build or convert into the in-law suite. Usually, people opt to convert their basement, attic and even their garage into a separate space for their in-laws. When looking for the right location, choose an option that makes the most sense for your home and the occupants needs.

3. Accessibility

Since in-law suites are usually designed for elder or ageing residents, it’s important to address all accessibility needs and concerns. During the design and construction process, work with your contractor to identify and remedy any safety hazards. This could mean anything from using calming paint colours to installing shower seats and grab bars in the shower. It’s essential to ensure that your in-laws can comfortably and safely use every part of their space when they’re over for a visit.

4. Finances

As with every other renovation project, it’s important to take a look at your finances and figure out what you can and can’t afford. Your renovation budget determines everything from the scale of your project and the materials you use, to whether you can renovate at all! Before diving headfirst into any remodelling project, have an honest conversation about your finances and set a reasonable budget for yourself! For a better look at what to include in your renovation budget, check out our budgeting blog.

5. Utilities

Utilities are usually the last thing on anyone’s mind when renovating a part of their home. However, when it comes to in-law suites, it’s one of the major things to consider. We advise that your new addition have its own separate power, heat and water source. This way, you can turn the utilities off when your in-law suite isn’t occupied. Separate utilities can also come in handy if you decide to rent this space out in the future.

6. Personal taste

Last but certainly not least – personal taste. When constructing an in-law suite, you want to keep the occupants in mind when picking everything from renovation materials to colours and furniture. This will make sure that your in-laws are able to enjoy their space as it’s a representation of their personal style.

Thinking of adding an in-law suite to your home? Get in touch with us today!