Cost Breakdown: What to Consider When Building a Backyard Suite
Everything You Need to Know About Budgeting for Your Backyard Suite
Backyard suites, also known as laneway homes or garage suites, offer additional living space, potential rental income, and increased property value. However, embarking on such a project requires careful financial planning and an understanding of the associated costs.
In total a backyard suite is likely to be within $200000 - $350000 to build. The high variance depends on choice of materials and size of the project.
In this blog post, I break down the expenses that you need to consider when building a backyard suite.
1. Planning and Design
Before the construction starts, meticulous planning and design are crucial. This phase involves hiring architects or designers who are familiar with local zoning laws and building codes.
Whomever you choose to work with should be collaborative and open to working with your vision and style for the project.
The design should be functional and aesthetically pleasing, tying into the architectural style of the main house and neighbourhood. It’s a good idea to hire a designer that can render an image of what the backyard suite will look like so that there are no big surprises when the suite is built.
Architectural Fees
Depending on the complexity of the project, architectural fees can range from $5,000 to $20,000. They may be more though, especially if your designer or architect charges as a percentage of your construction budget.
Permits and Approvals
Once the design is firm, obtaining the necessary permits and approvals is the next step. These permits ensure that the construction adheres to safety and zoning regulations. Permit costs vary widely, typically ranging from $1,000 to $3,000.
As of writing, the City of Calgary is not charging to apply for a development permit for a backyard suite. Here is a link to the application fee calculator on their website in case that changes.
https://www.calgary.ca/development/permits/fee-calculator-planning-applications.html
After the development permit is approved, the design may need a few tweaks and then a building permit is applied for alongside more detailed design drawings. The cost to apply for a building permit is CDN$1,302 (as of writing).
Trades such as electricians and plumbers will also need to pull permits before they can carry out work on the project during construction. The cost for trade permits is not significant, at $116 each.
2. Site Preparation
The condition of your backyard or garage space will influence the extent of site preparation required. This phase includes clearing the area, leveling the ground, and addressing any potential drainage issues.
Demolition and Excavation
If existing structures need to be removed or the land needs significant grading, demolition and excavation costs can add up. These expenses generally range from $5,000 to $10,000. If there is demolition to be carried out, a demolition permit will be necessary if you don’t have a building permit; the cost of this depends on the size of the demolition but for a 10 - 100m2 building will be about $260.
Utilities and Infrastructure
Connecting the backyard suite to essential utilities such as water, sewage, electricity, and gas is a significant consideration and fee. These costs can vary depending on the distance from the main house and existing infrastructure, ranging from $10,000 to $30,000. Recently I was quoted ~$5000 to move a gas line over 10 feet. There can be a lot of excavation/or trenching involved.
3. Construction Costs
The construction phase encompasses the bulk of the expenses. It includes materials, labour, and the various components that make up the structure of the backyard suite.
Builders or general contractors typically have a crew of trades that they work with and generally charge you ‘cost-plus’ for trades; that means if they hire a trade for $10,000, they generally will charge you 10 -20% on top of that ... it’s how they make their money.
And for the most part that ‘cost-plus’ charge is worth it as it saves you the time and stress of seeking out quality and reliable trades and also negates the need to be present throughout the project build overseeing the design implementation correctly.
Foundation
A solid foundation is the bedrock of any construction project. Depending on the soil conditions and the type of foundation required, costs can range from $10,000 to $20,000.
Framing
Framing forms the skeleton of the backyard suite and is a critical structural element. Framing costs typically range from $20,000 to $40,000, depending on the size and complexity of the design.
Roofing
A durable and weather-resistant roof is essential for protecting your backyard suite. Roofing expenses can range from $5,000 to $15,000, depending on the materials chosen; for example, standing seam will likely be more expense than asphalt shingles.
Exterior Finishes
The exterior finishes, including siding, windows, and doors, contribute to the overall appearance and insulation of the structure. These costs can vary widely depending on choice of material but are a significant size of the overall budget, so budget at least $15000 - $40000.
4. Interior Finishes
Interior finishes transform the structure into a livable space. This phase includes electrical and plumbing installations, insulation, drywall, flooring, and painting.
Electrical and Plumbing
Proper electrical and plumbing systems are essential for functionality and safety. Electrical and plumbing installations typically cost between $10,000 and $20,000.
Insulation and Drywall
Insulation ensures energy efficiency and comfort, while drywall creates the interior walls. Combined, these costs can range from $5,000 to $15,000. If you want to have heated garage and/or ground floors you will have to insulate under the concrete slab.
MILLWORK and CASEWORK
Millwork and casework is the carpentry required in your backyard suite such as baseboards, trim and custom cabinetry. The custom cabinetry is where it gets expensive however, where space is limited, genius storage solutions custom built are a wise investment.
Flooring and Painting
The choice of flooring and paint can significantly impact the aesthetics and feel of the backyard suite. These finishes generally range from $5,000 to $15,000.
5. Furnishings and Appliances
Outfitting your backyard suite with furnishings and appliances is the final step. This phase includes kitchen appliances, bathroom fixtures, and furniture.
Kitchen Appliances
A functional kitchen requires essential appliances such as a stove, refrigerator, and dishwasher. Depending on the brand and quality, these costs can range from $3,000 to $20,000.
Bathroom Fixtures
Bathroom fixtures, including a toilet, sink, and shower, are vital for a fully functional space. These expenses typically range from $2,000 to $10,000.
Furniture
Furnishing your backyard suite with comfortable and stylish furniture can add up. Costs can vary widely, from $5,000 to $25,000.
6. Additional Considerations
Beyond the primary construction and finishing costs, several additional factors can influence the overall budget.
Landscaping
Enhancing the exterior space around your backyard suite with landscaping can improve its appeal and value. Landscaping costs generally range from $2,000 to $10,000.
Contingency Fund
It's prudent to set aside a contingency fund to cover unexpected expenses or changes during the construction process. A recommended amount is 10-15% of the total budget.
Conclusion
So, as you can see, building a backyard suite is a significant investment undertaking that requires thorough planning and budgeting.
For more information on backyard suites visit our Backyard Suite FAQs, or for help with budgeting check out my Free PDF Backyard Suite Budget Planner.
If you have any questions or need help with designing your backyard suite project, feel free to contact us for a consultation.