Disclaimer

This checklist is general planning information for homeowners. It is not engineering, architectural, legal, tax, insurance or code-compliance advice, and it is not a substitute for a site-specific review by qualified professionals.

Building codes, permit requirements, zoning and bylaws vary by municipality and change over time. Code references are summaries, not quotations; they may be out of date or not apply to your project. Always confirm requirements with your local building department (in Toronto, Toronto Building) before starting work.

Structural, electrical, gas, plumbing, HVAC and fire-separation work may legally require licensed trades, permits and inspections. In Ontario: electrical work is regulated by the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA); gas work must be done by a TSSA-certified gas technician; structural changes typically need drawings by a qualified designer (BCIN) or engineer. In the US, check your state and local licensing rules.

Hazardous materials (asbestos, lead paint, vermiculite, mould) must be tested and handled according to provincial or state regulations. Stop work and get professional testing if you suspect them.

Cost figures, where shown, are ranges from the cited third-party sources as of the date shown. They are not quotes, and your costs will differ. Incentive programs change or close without notice; verify eligibility with the program administrator before you commit.

Clarity makes no warranty that following this checklist will result in code compliance, a passed inspection, or a defect-free project, and accepts no liability for decisions made using it.

Policy version 2026-09-27