Interior renovations and basements

Follow these steps to plan your interior renovation project, apply for a permit and book inspections.

This page is for detached, semi-detached or townhouse homes.

Tip: print this page and use it as a checklist.


On this page:

  1. Plan your project
  2. Check if you need a permit
  3. Prepare your drawings
  4. Prepare your forms
  5. Check fees
  6. Apply online
  7. Wait for review
  8. Get and display your permit
  9. Book inspections
  10. Contact us

1. Plan your project

Before you start, review these steps and gather key details about your project:

  • size and location
  • materials you’ll use
  • any features like stairs or railings

2. Check if you need a permit

You typically need a building permit for interior renovations when you:

  • finish an unfinished space such as a basement
  • add or remove walls
  • change or add insulation (type or value)
  • make structural changes
  • add or change plumbing, including new fixtures at an existing rough-in
  • change how you heat the space
  • change the use of the space (for example, turning storage into a bedroom)

If you are building an addition or adding an additional residential unit, visit those pages for separate requirements.


3. Prepare your drawings

All drawings must be to scale and dated.

Floor plans – show both existing and proposed construction, including:

  • wall details, door and window sizes, and lintel sizes for load-bearing openings
  • ceiling heights and insulation type/R-value (if applicable)
  • room names, room areas, and plumbing fixture locations
  • smoke alarm and CO detector locations
  • a key plan showing other floors (with room names and areas)

Structural plans – include details of any structural changes.

Elevations – required if you are altering exterior windows or doors. Show existing and proposed elevations.

Truss layout – sealed by a professional engineer (if proposed).

Engineered joist layout – sealed by a professional engineer or designer (if proposed).

HVAC and mechanical design (Part 6) – required when the dwelling has six or more bedrooms.


5. Prepare your forms

Complete the forms that apply to your project.

Contact us if you’re not sure which forms you need.

Upload these forms with your building permit application (unless they don't apply to your project):

Bring these completed forms to the service counter on the 2nd floor of City Hall:


6. Check permit fees

Permit fees depend on your project. HST does not apply.

  • Basement finish: $313.60
  • Interior renovation: $0.55 per square foot

Pay when you apply:

  • online – credit card only
  • in person – cash, debit or cheque payable to City of Waterloo

We’ll start reviewing your application once payment is received.


7. Apply online

Submit your application through the building permit portal.

Upload your drawings and forms when you apply.

Apply for a building permit


8. Wait for review

The typical time to review an application is 10 business days.

We may ask for more information before approval.


9. Get and display your permit

Once approved, your permit package will be available on the portal.

We’ll email you instructions on how to access it.

Print the full package and keep it visible at the work site.


10. Book inspections

Under the Ontario Building Code Act, you must book inspections before the work is covered.

Find the required inspections listed on your building permit under "Mandatory Inspections".

Book inspections through the building portal (find it on the left menu):

  • the earliest you can book an inspection is the next business day
  • you'll need your permit number

Book an inspection online


Contact us

Call 519-747-8712 or email building@waterloo.ca to book an appointment.