Whether you’re purchasing a property with a second unit or adding a legal basement apartment, understanding fire retrofit in Ontario is essential. Properties with secondary suites must meet Ontario Fire Code standards, typically verified through a Fire Retrofit Certificate.
What is a Fire Retrofit in Ontario?
Fire retrofit in Ontario refers to the modifications required to bring an existing dwelling into compliance with provincial fire codes. The local fire department inspects existing buildings and recommends changes necessary for the unit to meet Ontario Fire Code requirements.
Fire retrofit certificates apply specifically to existing structures. New buildings (typically less than 5 years old) receive fire approval through the municipal building department under more stringent standards. Retrofit requirements represent the minimum acceptable standards for older buildings — newer construction must meet higher thresholds.
Ontario Fire Code Retrofit Requirements
The Ontario Fire Code, Division B, Part 9 establishes fire retrofit requirements for the province. These requirements are updated regularly, so property owners should verify current standards at the time of any construction or modification.
Retrofit requirements vary by building type. This guide focuses on fire retrofit requirements for secondary dwelling units — a common concern for Ontario property investors and homeowners looking to add rental income through secondary suite programs.
This information is provided without representation or warranty. To confirm specific retrofit requirements for your property, we recommend applying for a fire retrofit certificate through your local fire department.
Fire Separation Between Dwelling Units
Fire retrofit in Ontario requires proper fire separation between dwelling units. The minimum fire resistance rating is 30 minutes between residential units. When a dwelling unit adjoins a different occupancy type (such as main floor retail), the fire separation must have a minimum 1-hour rating.
Exceptions exist for buildings with sprinkler systems or interconnected smoke alarms, which may permit reduced fire separation requirements.
Properties affected by Toronto’s multiplex zoning by-law may face additional fire separation or retrofit requirements when converting to multiple units.
Means of Egress Requirements
“Egress” refers to emergency exit routes. The Ontario Fire Code specifies how many escape routes each unit must have.
For units with proper 30-minute fire separation and a flame spread rating under 150, a single means of egress is acceptable — provided the exit leads directly to ground level outside.
Flame spread rating measures how quickly and extensively fire spreads across a material’s surface. For detailed information, see TimberTech’s comprehensive guide.
When a secondary unit’s exit passes through another unit, a second means of egress is typically required. In basement units, this second exit may be provided through an egress window meeting Ontario Building Code specifications.
Sprinkler-equipped buildings may qualify for egress exceptions under the fire code.
Fire Alarm and Detection Systems
Interconnected smoke alarms may be required when units share exit routes or when reduced fire separation ratings are used.
At minimum, smoke alarms must be installed outside each bedroom and in other locations specified by the Ontario Fire Code.
Carbon monoxide alarms, while not regulated under the provincial fire code, are often mandated by municipal by-laws — particularly in Toronto.
Sprinkler systems are not required in most residential fire retrofit applications, but their installation may permit reduced requirements in other code areas.
Electrical Safety Certification
All dwelling units in Ontario must have electrical systems certified by an ESA-licensed contractor. This certification must be available for the chief fire inspector upon request. Beyond this certification requirement, the fire code contains no additional electrical specifications for secondary units.
Fire Retrofit Certificate: What You Need to Know
A Fire Retrofit Certificate is official approval from the local fire department confirming a dwelling unit meets Ontario Fire Code retrofit standards and applicable municipal by-laws.
Never occupy a unit without a valid fire retrofit certificate — unless the property has fire approval under new building guidelines as described above.
Important: A fire retrofit certificate alone does not authorize occupancy. Tenants and owners must also comply with local zoning by-laws, municipal requirements for secondary units, and any applicable regulations such as short-term rental laws.
Other fire compliance requirements may also apply. Properties with wood-burning fireplaces or stoves require inspection by a WETT-certified inspector.
Need Help with Fire Retrofit Compliance?
Fire retrofit requirements in Ontario can be complex, varying by property type, location, and intended use. Professional guidance from municipal officials or qualified advisors is strongly recommended.
Questions about fire retrofit requirements or secondary unit compliance? Contact Alloway Property Group for a free consultation. Our team can provide expert recommendations for buyers and sellers navigating Ontario’s fire safety requirements.