04/10/2026
π‘ What Makes a Basement Bedroom or Secondary Suite Code Compliant? π‘
Planning a legal basement suite or secondary suite in Calgary or Edmonton? Here are some of the most important safety requirements homeowners need to know:
πͺ Egress Windows
Every bedroom must have a window large enough for a safe emergency escape. The City requires a minimum opening of 0.35 mΒ², with no dimension less than 380 mm, plus proper window well clearance.
πͺ Smoke-Tight Separation
The suite must be separated from the main dwelling with smoke-tight construction. This includes specific drywall requirements, sealed joints, and properly protected penetrations and doors.
π₯ Mechanical & Furnace Room Requirements
Mechanical rooms must be fully enclosed with a fire-rated door, and your exit route cannot pass through them. Additionally, all units must have independent HVAC systemsβthis can be accomplished by having a separate furnace or, if space is limited, separate air systems.
π¨ Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarms
Properly located, interconnected smoke and CO alarms are required to meet current safety codes.
How can we help?
With 15+ years of experience building legal suites in Alberta, Alta Home has the expertise and resources to help with everything from permits to turnkey basement completions.
π° Up to $10,000 in Calgary Incentives
We also help eligible homeowners apply for Calgaryβs Secondary Suite Incentive Program, which may provide up to $10,000 for qualifying safety upgrades, including:
βοΈ Egress windows
βοΈ Smoke-tight barriers
βοΈ Hardwired smoke & CO alarms
βοΈ Split heat or separate air systems
π An active building permit is required before eligible work can be considered.
Have questions about making your basement suite legal? Drop us a line at https://altahome.ca/contact-us/ or comment below!